Trade Show Planning and Tips
Planning and executing a trade show booth can be overwhelming. There are so many moving parts. Simply put, the trade show planning process cause the unprepared to become confused and stressed. David Flatt LTD has over 25 years of trade show event planning experience and our team can help you every step of the way. We have designed and set up booths for trade shows around the country in major marketing cities such as Las Vegas, Denver, Chicago, Miami, and in our hometown of NYC where we are a Javits Exhibit Appointed Contractor. You’ll find you’ve come to the right place if you are in need of expert advice on trade show coordination. Meet Graziella, COO of David Flat LTD, as she shares her experiences.
Tell us about yourself. How did you get involved in this industry?
I studied architecture in college and I have always loved how things are created and built. I worked for Habitat for Humanity and have experience with designing sets and custom furniture. I wanted to explore opportunities outside of architecture because the projects were too long, and I often didn't see the end result. I pivoted toward events because there are clearly defined start and finish goals. I love everything that goes into trade show events including planning, being creative and working with clients.
Describe what it is like working at David Flatt LTD.
The environment is fast paced, creative, hands on, and dynamic. We have our own on-site wood shop where we can see how every piece is made from start to finish. It's almost like working in Santa's Workshop. Seeing how every piece is made from start to finish - starting with 3D renderings, then the custom fabrication process using tools like our CNC machine, to the assembly process, and all the way down to the fine finishing details of a particular piece or trade show booth. I love seeing how our modular walls come together to provide the backbone of a brand's booth. It’s satisfying to see how details like flooring and graphics can bring a client’s booth space to life.
In your experience, what are some things that should be decided in the planning phase to avoid stress or budget overruns?
Planning ahead helps maintain budgets and ensures that your event will be the best it can be. We recommend booking your booth space early so you receive a prime area on the show floor. Familiarize yourself with any display restrictions the venue may have so there are no last minute surprises. You can also consider ways to boost your brand’s image by adding engaging lighting, vinyl graphics, and rental furniture. Coordinating with contractors and submitting paperwork can become time consuming. Either start that process early on or leverage our experience and can we handle these details for you.
A client is ready to exhibit at a trade show, where do they start?
Familiarize yourself and understand the literature provided by the event organizer or event space. Examples may include a guide book, exhibitor handbooks, guidelines, etc. My job is to help the client get through this important process and give them as much information as possible as they go through the planning process. We walk clients through the entire trade show process. It starts with a 3D booth rendering and includes discussing ideas for painting, finishing, laminating, veneering, and custom work.
Tell us about yourself. How did you get involved in this industry?
I studied architecture in college and I have always loved how things are created and built. I worked for Habitat for Humanity and have experience with designing sets and custom furniture. I wanted to explore opportunities outside of architecture because the projects were too long, and I often didn't see the end result. I pivoted toward events because there are clearly defined start and finish goals. I love everything that goes into trade show events including planning, being creative and working with clients.
Need help with trade show ideas for your business
Submit a quote request or give us a call at 718-937-7944 and for a free 30-minute consultation and we’ll show you how to run a trade show booth successfully!
