Trade Show Guru

AIRLINE TRAVEL with carry on, what to take... what NOT to take

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 14:52:00 +0000

TRAVELING TO YOUR NEXT SHOW BY PLANE...

If so do you know what you can carry on with you?

If not, get educated with the below chart provided by the TSA.

Tips on Trade Show Speaking

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Wed, 20 May 2009 13:23:00 +0000

With public speaking, it doesn’t matter who your audience is. What matters is how you properly present yourself. The same goes for being at a trade show. Being at a trade show and representing your company is a form of public speaking - the attendees are your audience.

Whomever you approach or approaches you will know right away how prepared you actually are. You must be ready at all time by knowing your product or service inside and out, by being upbeat, by focusing on the audience whether it’s one person or a group and practicing before show time.

So, here are FOUR tips to help prepare you before the next big show.

Tip 1: Knowing your product or service. Obviously, knowledge is a winner in sales. And as a consumer, nothing is worse than ending up with a salesperson that knows nothing about what they’re selling – no matter what it is. So, if you don’t feel confident you’d better start learning all there is to know now.

Tip 2: Arrive upbeat and stay that way. If your morning began on a bad note, leave it at the door. You owe each and every person at the trade show the same enthusiastic presentation from the first to the last.

Tip 3: Focus on the audience whether it’s one person or a group. Keep your eyes planted where they should. No looking over their shoulder or at your feet. It’s important to keep the attention on them and make them important.

Tip 4: Practice. From an early age we are taught that practice makes perfect. And as an adult nothing has changed. Practice even the simple things like saying who you are and what your company does. Practice until it sounds effortless. Also, practice keeping the pace of your words moderate, try not to rush through.

Attitude and confidence are also key factors in confident trade show speaking.

Tip 1: Try this the night before, positive visualization. Whether you believe this works or not, try it. Imagine yourself on the show floor being confronted by a new prospect. Imagine how you want to handle yourself.

Tip 2: Be in control. Act confident, be ready, hold your head up high, stand up straight and lastly but most important… smile. Avoid keeping your hands in your pockets, rocking side to side, twirling your hair or touching your face. These are all signs of self doubt.

Tip 3: Accept nervousness, we’re all human. Everyone gets nervous but the difference is all in how you handle it. Turn your jitters into positive energy that radiates off of you.

Tip 4: Lastly, it’s not the end of the world if you have a bad day. There’s always the next show to make up for where you lacked today. It’s called learning - embrace it.

Maine Today Article

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 16:41:00 +0000

4 Tips to help you find new trade show success in 2009

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 16:24:00 +0000

Spring is one of those transitional times of year. Here, in New England, we are all ready to welcome the warm summer breeze, but it's still a bit too soon for that.

Spring is also the time of year that trade show goers are gearing up for the 2009 trade show season – that’s if it hasn’t started for you already.

Attending a trade show is a commitment from beginning to end. And preparing ahead saves time and money when it counts the most.

Here are some 4 TIPS to help get you on the right track.

TIP #1
For a small show start planning 3 months in advance, at the minimum. For the moderate size show start planning 6-8 months in advance and for the large national shows a year is preferred. With the smaller size shows but for the national shows, so much more money is spent just to be there. So planning ahead will make your show successful.

TIP #2
Most important, can't say it enough, if you don't get this right than just forget the whole thing. Number ONE most important piece to know and build your whole show presence on is... drum roll please... your TARGET AUDIENCE.

Who is at this show anyway? It's not about what you think of the service/product, it's what they think. Who is going to benefit from your services or product? The audience. What are their needs, what are their wants, what will they get out of your service/product?

Those are the questions you need to ask and figure out. Not just surface answers either, these answers must strike a cord with them and really hit home. It must be a deep benefit to them that makes you stand above your competitors. I must use that, oh, that service will make my life so much easier. What did I do without it?

TIP#3
Okay, so now you have the best advertising you could have come up with. How are you going to attract your target audience to your booth? What is going to invite them and engage them? Your GRAPHICS! Let’s face it, not all of us have been hit with the creative stick.

So that's when you hire, if you must, a professional. A trade show graphics professional. Someone with the experience in building the visual that gets those people to say, hey, who's that. If your graphics don’t speak to the target audience than you may as well go home. This visual must always be a positive one.

TIP #4
Set your GOALS high. Set them too low and fail at this challenge. It's like playing a championship game of football, being the quarterback and holding the ball in your hand while walking on the field and knowing... you're going to lose. Well, then the Law of Attraction says - lose you will. And who wants to do that! So, set those goals high. It's just like anything else, talk is cheap but effort makes you the MVP of your team. And that's where you need to be right now. You’re the teams Most Valuable Player!

This March, while the birds start flying home, the days get longer, and the smell of the air starts to change take the time to sit back and reevaluate why you want to go to trade shows and what extra business can come out of it.

10 TIPS TO TRADE SHOW BETTER

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 16:13:00 +0000

Do … plan ahead properly including the amenities like lighting, internet access or carpeting
Do … insure your booth space is tidy and neat even right down to the smell
Do … always look ready - focus your attention on your customers or prospects during show time
Do … show your best self – wear your best suit and comfortable shoes, you’ll thank yourself later
Do … bring more than enough hand outs including business cards

Don’t … procrastinate or get caught off guard with un-anticipated issues such as no throw provided
Don’t … fuss with your booth during the show, save that for before the show starts
Don’t … eat or drink inside your booth space, it is unappealing and no one wants a spill
Don’t … talk excessively to other booth staffers, pay attention to why you are there
Don’t … talk on your cell phone, text or scroll through your Blackberry

Unlock your trade show displays recycling potential – How it may surprise you

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 15:43:00 +0000

So, it’s 2009 and the hype still remains… recycling. Everywhere you go, every corner of every industry is now on board with some type of product that is “environmentally friendly”.

Even, down to the 2008 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade. For the second year helium used in some of the over-sized balloons was recovered and recycled.

Why’s that a big deal you say? Well, helium is limited and becoming a scarce resource. It is produced slowly through the process of decaying uranium and thorium. Currently, only about 5% of the world’s helium is being recycled.

What an interesting fact most people don’t know about or have even thought about - bet you won’t look at the 2009 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade the same.

With all this recycling talk, we took a long look at our products. And even surprised ourselves! 90% of our products are made with recyclable items such as aluminum, polycarbonate, polyethylene, cardboard materials such as fiberboard, and, of course our recycled fabric brand – Premier.

Here’s some of our products in a little more depth... our branded 1UP Pop up display line has aluminum bars and polycarbonate backed panels with cases that are roto-molded are made from polyethylene. All of these components may be recycled.

Our Promoter panel displays series has an interior core of fiberboard – which is a corrugated cardboard material. Our Add-A-Panel display and tower series has an interior core of corrugated plastic mounted to an aluminum framing. Again, all of these components may be recycled.

Our Premier brand fabric is used on all of our 14 branded display models and is made from recycled PET bottles and can further be recycled.

These are just to name some of our top lines.

Well, it’s time to take a look at your efforts and jump on board with sustainability. Just like us, you may surprise yourself with what you might already be doing and don’t even know it.

Our 7 Positive Ways To Help You Welcome 2009 Change

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 15:42:00 +0000

1. Fact: change is unknown. Fact: change is uncontrollable. It can not be predetermined but it can be dealt with a willing heart. Embrace the unknown change that may lie ahead.

2. Join forces with your world – past, present and future. Hand-in-hand you are your world are one. Embrace your whole world. It is not flawless but it is yours – you own it.

3. Expect all change, the good the bad and the ugly. Change is your friend in whatever form it arrives in. It’s inevitable that change is going to happen but it’s how you react to it that depicts the outcome.

4. Receive change openly, try not to fight change. Be still, be quiet, concentrate that is when peace and truth finds you. Listen to your inner voice. Stop to listen and hear.

5. Present positive change. What makes you joyous, what makes you jump with unending joy? Go to it, seek it out and go with it.

6. Create a realistic plan for you and your goals. Organize, communicate, work, focus and embrace the plan.

7. Commit and commit hard.

Trade Show New Year

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 15:29:00 +0000

January 2009 will be our 1 year anniversary participating in the newsletter craze. We're pretty proud of that! We strive to provide useful information giving you the knowledge to outperform your competitors. Every month it’s about what information can we offer you that is beneficial. Well, this month will be just about change – upcoming change.

Sign up here to receive our Monthly Newsletter: http://www.affordabledisplays.com/newsletter.asp

Year 2008 has had its share of ups and downs just like any past year but yet somehow feels different – for us anyway.

It was a year that started off just the same as before then turned into a year to reflect upon past business practices. We have come out of this year stronger than ever before by opening our wings to fly into new territory. Brave – we think - but absolutely necessary. The focus now is on providing our customers, new and old, with our same great service and product line.

Now, in 2009, we specialize in interior signs such as posters, ceiling signs, directional signs, floor decals and wall coverings that install like wallpaper.

On top of that backlit signs with printed posters for interior or exterior uses and self-adhesive products like view-thru window decals.

Plus, fine art printing and mounting with Archival – “Giclee” museum 8 color inks mounted onto or into a frame.

And we can’t forget about Life Size Cut Outs from your photos that are self-standing and make your trade show come to life. Also, Big Checks for those fundraising, donation or just about any use you can think of. All of this is done right here in-house.

Call, e-mail or fax any requests. You may be surprised what we can do!

"The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing." -- Walt Disney

TRADE SHOW BIG CHECKS PAY OFF!

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 19:16:00 +0000

NEW NEW NEW!!! OUR BIG CHECKS WILL PAY OFF!$95.00 EACH -- 22" x 44" Custom BIG Check

Our Custom BIG Checks are digitally printed and mounted to durable corrugated plastic.

Using a blank business check design with fake numbers we are able to create a larger than life oversized check for your every use. These personalized checks can be used as a donation check, prize check, reward check or novelty check. Call them what you want! Use them one time or re-use them throughout the year, it's up to you. With our sturdy and strong backing, this corrugated plastic check will outlast any cardboard or foamcore material.

We offer 3 standard check templates to choose from: blue check, yellow check or green check. At no additional fee, we will add your information on the check, along with your logo or text at the top left corner if provided. Check out the 6 text styles to choose from below.

Or you can design your own check and submit the artwork to us - please call for customized pricing. Your custom check may be full color, black and white – we print it as you provide it. Remember, the better the artwork, the better quality the outcome will be. Again, please call for customized pricing.

Securly Upload your artwork NOW and get started! https://dropbox.yousendit.com/transfer.php?action=dropbox&dropbox=affordabledisplays&secure=1

Trade Show Breaking News! Custom Life Size Cut Outs

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 14:18:00 +0000

BREAKING NEWS FROM

Affordable Exhibit Displays, Inc.
Lewiston Maine

CUSTOM LIFE SIZE CUT OUTS ARE A NEW HIT WITH OUR CUSTOMERS! A GREAT WAY TO ADD 'LIFE' TO YOUR NEXT TRADE SHOW BOOTH OR PRESENTATION.

Custom Life Size Photo Stand Up - small, medium or large up to 84" tall. Use anywhere, anytime for almost anything.

People as in Babies, Kids and Adults

Military

Product Promotions

Special Occations like Anniversaries, Weddings or Birthdays

Specialty such as Animals

Company logos or School Mascots

Mini Size - no larger than 18" tall

Counter Top Size - no larger than 36" tall

Nearly Life Size - no larger than 60" tall

LIFE Size - no larger than 84" tall

It doesn't stop at just full size cut outs, we also can print BIG CHECKS & GIFT CERTIFICATES!

These photo cut outs are digitally printed on high quality photo film then mounted to Corrugated Plastic (no paper involved in this process). Folded in half for shipping. Self-standing it comes complete with easel back ready to set up and use immediately.

CALL TODAY TO ORDER! CONVENIENTLY SUBMIT YOUR HIGH RESOLUTION ARTWORK FILES ONLINE! Submit your high quality artwork for the photo finish you are looking for.

Get started now and submit your file:
https://dropbox.yousendit.com/transfer.php?action=dropbox&dropbox=affordabledisplays&secure=1

*Call for artwork specs. Standard production time is 5 business days plus shipping time.

Featured Trade Show Banner Stands - Order today!

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 18:57:00 +0000

FEATURED ** FEATURED ** FEATURED

These banner stand packages are HOT HOT HOT!
Order yours today!!

EZ Pull-Up Single Sided - 35" wide Retractable unit - w/ Printed Banner

* Set-up Size: 84" high x 35" wide
* Weight: Approx. 15 lbs. in the case
* Warranty: 5 year Manufacturer Warranty
* Retractable & Changeable Banner Stand
* Deluxe Spring Roller for Easy Graphic Change
* INCLUDES Full Color Digital Printed Polyester Fabric Banner
* INCLUDES Soft Canvas Carry Bag

Positively the simplest retractable stand out there!

Sleek, simple appearance ... Sometimes, well, looks do matter. What company wants to be known for having the ugliest booth compared to it's competitors? That's where our EZPull-Up banner stand can save your reputation! The clean style of the retractable base is visually appealing and the low profile design targets the focus on your banner information. The durable aluminum components are lightweight at only 15 lbs. Also perfect for airports, churches, car dealerships, hotel and bank lobbies!

FYI Printing Process: Banner material is a lightweight, canvas-like fabric. The banner edges are cut and sealed with a hot knife. This material will have no edge curl regardless of the storage time. Printer model used is a 60 HP Designjet 5500ps. Note: This material is intended for indoor use only.

Banner-Mate II - 3 Connected Non-Retractable Units w/ Printed Banners

* Set-up Size: 84.75" high x 105" wide
* Each Banner: 84.75" tall x 35" wide
* Weight: Approx. 8 lbs. per Banner Stand
* Warranty: 1 year Manufacturer Warranty
* Reuseable Grip Rail System
* Quick & Easy Set-up
* INCLUDES (3) Laminated Polycarbonate Banners (full color)

How to hit your target, better yet, hit the bull's-eye with your Banner-Mate II Banner Stand system!

Aim for the clean and clear message ... If you have been actively doing display research you already know that there are many varieties of displays to choose from. We will end your tradeshow display challenge by making sure you are aiming for the new fresh approach, the connected banner stands.

Aim for adapting and expanding ... How would you like to cover the same "real estate" as a full size pop up display at your next tradeshow and for a lot less? The Banner-Mate II™ will accomplish both! Pay less than a 10' full size pop up display and you could have yourself (3) separate units that form an 86" high x 105" wide straight mural backwall that is virtually seamless. Unlike ordinary display systems, the standard 35" Banner-Mate II™ units can be linked together using the unique state-of-the-art edge to edge magnetic that will tightly hook the (3) units together. Design your graphics so that each individual unit may be used independently as well as connected, making the Banner-Mate II™ even more of a great marketing resource. This allows you the option of using only one unit and banner for the smaller applications. Get ready to throw the winning Game Shot for your company!

Another tremendous advantage is the clean edge to edge look. With no visible bases or feet exposed, only your top to floor graphics with be focused on. Keep your booth space functional with the 14.5" deep footprint leaving more space for you to move around - a perfect choice where space is limited. The solid Chrome weighted base will ensure the stability and support needed. Don't fuss with a telescoping pole, the included 3-section corded Graphic pole requires no adjusting to the right height needed so you easily achieve the right height every time. Supply us with your full color graphics and we will print them on our high quality Lexan banner material. With a photo finish your artwork will represent you!

FYI Printing Process: Banner material is a Lexan (plastic) laminated. Front laminate has a matte satin textured finish to help reduce indoor glare. If your artwork is high photo quality this material will provide a photo output. Printer model used is a 60 HP Designjet 5500ps. Note: This material is intended for indoor use only.

Celebrate Fall with a Trade Show Display

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 18:49:00 +0000

Now's the time to have your own mobile marketing tool! The ShowStyle will be your very own take-it-with-you-now display. Carry like a briefcase and you are good to go wherever your next presentation is.

Even better is our Fall Special. Take advantage of the $65.00 value the Custom Printed Header can offer. Add your logo or text and we will print it for FREE! And ship everything Ground for only $8.00.

Any questions or would like to place an order today, call 800.723.2050 and ask for Dena or Brie. They'd be more than happy to help make your display purchase a quick and easy one.

*Standard production time is 5 business days. Logo files must be ready to print.

See our mobile Trade Show on wheels

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 20:29:00 +0000

A complete Trade Show 2 GO!!

Our Banner-Mate II banner stand trade show display system beats the same 'ol pop up display by a mile.

"The 5 panel display looks fantastic. It was on display in a tradeshow yesterday in Bangor and everyone loved it. It was a huge hit. There were a lot of inquiries (Bangor Savings Bank) as to who made it for us and we let everyone know it was Affordable Display. Myself as well as others here are very happy with the work Affordable has provided us."

--Colin, Oxford Networks, ME

5 Banner-Mate II units shown.
* Set-up Size: 84.75" high x 175" wide
* Each Banner: 84.75" tall x 35" wide
* Weight: Approx. 8 lbs. per Banner Stand
* Warranty: 5 year Manufacturer on stand components
* Reuseable Grip Rail System
* Quick & Easy Set-up

Trade Show in these harder times, why?

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 14:32:00 +0000

This little pig went to the market
This little pig stayed home
This little pig had roast beef
This little pig had none and....
This little pig cried 'YES YES YES' all the way to the bank

This week has been pretty rough on us Americans, well, really the whole world. All anyone can talk about is this Bailout or Buyout or whatever you want to call it, the Dow is down, losing jobs, the housing market, the almighty dollar, etc. All negative things are being reported. And rightly so, it affects all of us the large and the small.

BUT... this post is to say - hold on here - the doom and gloom is really bad but we're still here aren't we. Let's not give up! We're not ready to throw in the towel or cut our loses. We're here for the long haul through the good and the bad.

Well, Americans might be down but we're not out and you aren't either. Keep getting out there, keep meeting new people, keep spreading the word about you and what you do, be seen by the old and new. That's what a trade show is all about. It's the place to smile and be proud of the company you stand for. Trade shows are a fundamental avenue for any business to prosper.

And you know what we think is great about being in the Trade Show industry? Everything!!! It's in these times our services and ability to serve our customers is the most important. It's in these times that effective marketing makes the difference. It's in these times that we become creative and are willing to try new things. It's in these times that we work harder to win.

If nothing else, this post is to give you positive reinforcement that we all can do it and keep doing it no matter how rough it gets. Let's all weather the storm together! Don't stop trade showing, don't stop presenting your business, don't give up.

Muhammad Ali says it best, "Only a man who knows what it is like to be defeated can reach down to the bottom of his soul and come up with the extra ounce of power it takes to win when the match is even."

Look Good at the Trade Show and Save the Environment

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 02:25:00 +0000

Coming Soon...

Recycled Bamboo banner stand base with Eco-Friendly banner material.

We're testing away to perfect the hottest item to hit the market since the pop up display.

Stay tuned to Affordable Exhibit Displays Blog for updated info.

Your feedback is important to our success. If you are interested in this kind of item and have to have it today, call us to be our guniea pig. 800-723-2050 -- just ask for Dena or x203.

Oct. 14th -- update.

We've got a taker on our Bamboo banner stand guinea pig. Custom Maine Furniture has agreed to use our new Bamboo banner stand and Eco-Friendly banner in their furniture showroom. They specialize in Maine Made furniture crafted by Maine's own woodworkers. From pine to maple, ash and cherry, finished or unfinished see them today for that new piece of 'home' you have been looking for. A full showroom is located at 1225 Center St., Auburn, Maine.

Make Your Trade Show Competitor's Jealous!

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 01:39:00 +0000

Your at the show, like usual you are putting your booth together. 5 minutes go by and done. With a simple clap of your hands together your display is done and your ready to go. You start to feel stares coming from all around, stares piercing in your back. You turn around to realize, it's your neighbors. Your booth neighbors are gwaking at you in pure jealousy. Your done and their, well... not.

The Banner-Mate banner stand system will make traveling a breeze and set up even easier. You'll look forward to going to those dreaded shows and everyone around will be envious to have their own.

Aim for the clean and clear message ... If you have been actively doing display research you already know that there are many varieties of displays to choose from - full size pop up or panel systems, table top pop up or panel systems and the popular retractable or pole banner stands. We would like to end your tradeshow display challenge by making sure you are aiming for the new fresh approach, the connected banner stands.

Aim for adapting and expanding ... How would you like to cover the same "real estate" as a full size pop up display at your next tradeshow and for a lot less? The Banner-Mate II™ will accomplish both! Pay less than a 10' full size pop up display and you could have yourself (3) separate units that form an 86" high x 105" wide straight mural backwall that is virtually seamless.

Unlike ordinary display systems, the standard 35" Banner-Mate II™ units can be linked together using the unique state-of-the-art edge to edge magnetic that will tightly hook the (3) units together. Design your graphics so that each individual unit may be used independently as well as connected, making the Banner-Mate II™ even more of a great marketing resource. This allows you the option of using only one unit and banner for the smaller applications. Get ready to throw the winning Game Shot for your company!

Another tremendous advantage is the clean edge to edge look. With no visible bases or feet exposed, only your top to floor graphics will be focused on. Keep your booth space functional with the 14.5" deep footprint leaving more space for you to move around - a perfect choice where space is limited.

Stay fresh and new by interchanging different banners with the easy to operate grip rail system. No double face tape or velcro needed here, just open and clamp down on your banner material.

The solid Chrome weighted base will ensure the stability and support needed. Don't fuss with a telescoping pole, the included 3-section corded Graphic pole requires no adjusting to the right height needed so you easily achieve the right height every time. Supply us with your full color graphics and we will print them on our high quality Lexan banner material. With a photo finish your artwork will represent you!

Included with each stand is a 3-section corded Pole, Chrome weighted base and Canvas carry bag with inner tube for added protection.

Aim for success ... Finally you'll discover how mobile a banner stand system can truly be. Meanwhile others are lugging around large crates and struggling to lift them in and out of their vehicle, you are traveling light.

Each stand and banner packs small within a convenient Canvas travel bag weighing only 8 lbs. For your next show, take along only as many stands and banners as you need -- throw them over your shoulder and put them in the front seat of your car all with ease.

That is what the Banner-Mate II™ system can do for you - become a more efficient tradeshow attendee. Again you are the one that stands out!

P.S. Don't forget illumination! Add one Halogen Stem light per banner to further enhance and lighten up your custom graphics all for $120.00 each. Easily attaches to the top of the pole. Ship frequently? Shipping case available to hold up to 9 stands and banners.

Can You Catch Up To Me? Trade Show Printing at it's best.

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 01:29:00 +0000

Printing for trade shows takes high quality equipment using special material to achieve the output high standards you are expecting. Years of experience and technical know-how is what sets our company apart from the others.

With over 14 years of printing experience specializing in the trade show industry, Affordable Exhibit Displays, Inc. will make YOU look good.

See us today to experience the printing difference.

Take it and go, a Banner Stand for someone on the run

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 01:36:00 +0000

The final piece to your marketing puzzle has been solved with our BIGscreen Table Top Retractable Banner Stand!

Just listen to a recent customer... "We just received our BIGscreen retractable table top display and couldn't be more happy with it. Thank you for your excellent customer service and quality product. We will definately use Affordable Displays in the future." -- Lynn, Rolling Rock Club

BIG Graphic, Simple Concept ... Now that you have hit the visual jackpot with our BIGscreen Retractable Table Top Banner Stand, what are you going to do? Communicate of course! Open up and communicate to your viewers exactly who you are and what you can offer.

Here's how simple it works: This portable table backdrop offers a one piece jumbo graphic that unrolls from it's base, hooks to a pole and stands 60" high overall. Profit from this BIG idea and put the retractable BIGscreen table top banner stand to work for you and your organization!

Business to business ... Get out and about with our BIGscreen Retractable Table Top Banner Stand! The convenience of this self-contained portable retractable banner stand has no limits! Just carry and go! Weighing only 10 lbs. anyone can use our BIGscreen Retractable Table Top Banner Stand.

What a great resource to have around, with the built-in carry handle and telescoping pole - set up is less than 30 seconds. Being a table top unit it will provide minimal table coverage allowing more room for you to display your brochures or product. The two swivel-out feet provide the steady base needed to endure the rigors of a trade show. Travel confident with the extruded aluminum body casing protecting your graphic during transport and storage.

Design your graphic to suit the pole increments you want to use. The telescoping pole has variable heights at 28", 37" 46" and 55" - just to name a few. Make it known who you are with the one piece jumbo fabric graphic! No velcro to fight with, no aligning and, best of all, no seams to distract the attention from your graphic. Keep your graphic up-to-date by sending your unit back to have your graphic replaced with a brand new one.

Connect you to your viewers ... What a reliable and practical means to great marketing! Suitable for board room presentations, special events, trade shows or for your traveling salespeople. Touch base with your clientele and open up your marketing resources to include the BIGscreen Retractable Table Top Banner Stand!

P.S.: Protect your investment during storage or shipping.

Don't forget to add in the optional Padded carry case or medium duty 6" x 60" Rotunda shipping case.

FYI Printing Process: Banner material is a lightweight, canvas-like fabric.The banner edges are cut and sealed with a hot knife. This material will have no edge curl regardless of the storage time. Printer model used is a 60 HP Designjet 5500ps. Note: This material is intended for indoor use only. If your application is other than tradeshow use (example: in front of a window or under an open tent) please let us know as we have other materials and printing processes available.

Focus on this, focus on what?

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 01:18:00 +0000

Scanning the Trade Show crowd sometimes can be surprising at how many people stopped their every day business to attend the show. Coming from local and from far away places but yet all are there for the same reason.

Yet, year after year attending that same trade show with so many others may seem tedious and repetitive and you feel so what’s the point in all this effort…

BAM! Well, that’s the point to a Trade Show.

But what if you don’t have that ‘BAM’ in your Trade Show, what if you don’t have that ‘something new’? What’s the point then?

The point: if nothing else, a Trade Show is no better a place to form new relationships while maintaining and reinforcing the existing relationships.

Here are FIVE strategeies to keep you and your business going. Because the point is: reinforcment of strength in both presense and relationships.

Tip 1: Focus on Features. Does every user of your product or service know it completely from the in to the out? Doubt it! Try taking your most overlooked features and push them. Get them recognized as a 'new' benefit.

Tip 2: Focus on the Future. Is something new and exciting coming but not quite there? Are you starting to focus on eco-friendly processing but it's not quite ready to unveil how. Start the buzz talk now, ahead of time, to get your new and old prospects talking and especially wanting that new service or item. Jump start it now.

Tip 3: Use the Proctor & Gamble strategy to make something old something 'New and Improved'. Here and there you may notice they use that on their laundry detergeant, shampoo brands, etc. If you have changed your product and it is New and Improved well say it. No need to reinvent the wheel when you can just enhance what you already have.

Tip 4: Focus on the People. Take your best faces and best workers and put them out there. The ones who make your products, the ones who make your services run smoothly. Put a face on the action behind the scene.

Tip 5: Foucs on Service. Have great customer service. Keep on proving it. Highlight your best services that make your customer's happy to work with you.

So, the point is even if you think you don't have something new to say, step back and really think about it. You will find something new based upon what you already have.

Ready, Set, Smile.. time for Trade Show pictures

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 12:19:00 +0000

Bring your camera! There's a whole list of things to remember to bring but don't forget your camera. After all the work that goes into creating an exhibit, time spent at the show and the traveling involved, a picture to remember it all by will be helpful in the future.

A camera at your next trade show is a great way to show off the exhibit and the atmosphere at the show to colleagues who could not be there, give yourself a reference point for next year, and to use in advertising as well. Remember to take pictures of things you want to change, so you can remember what not to do next year.

Try this... if you want to use your photos for professional print publications, or if you want to blow them up to make graphics, make sure your camera takes high-resolution pictures.

Tip: Pictures taken with regular 35-mm film or digital pictures taken in the TIFF format with at least a 300-dots-per-inch resolution are your best bets. Digital cameras with at least 3 Megapixels usually offer this option. Cameras that only take pictures in low-res JPEG formats are fine for your Web site, but are not good enough quality for print publications.

Now Featuring Trade Show Displays with $8 Flat Fee Shipping

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 12:34:00 +0000

AUGUST 20, 2008

GONE LIVE! Now featuring online $8 FLAT FEE Ground Shipping on all orders.

No more worrying of the 'hidden' shipping cost, it's a FLAT FEE. No not per item either, per order no matter how many items you purchase or how big the package! What a savings that can bring you on the next order you place with Affordable Exhibit Displays, Inc.

Did you know?

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 15:42:00 +0000

The Olympic Games is the largest single broadcast event in the world, broadcasted in 220 countries to more than 3.5 billion people. WOW!!! Who knew...

Gabbing At A Trade Show

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 15:35:00 +0000

BLAH -- BLAH ---- BLAH ----- BLAH ------

You advertise with newspapers, magazines, online, before and after the trade shows - the list goes on and on. Has that been working for you? Of course, your still in business aren’t you. But, a whole new world can open up with this marketing tactic at your next trade show.

Let’s see if you can guess it:

>> It is rarely talked about and has the potential to boost you not only in general but at a Trade Show tool.
>> If done right, it costs nothing.
>>If you have a great product it should come easy to you.
>> It carries far more weight than any of the other media methods above.
Can you guess what it is? If you answered Word of Mouth Marketing, you were right. Word of Mouth Marketing is a ‘consumer-to-consumer’ based marketing technique.

Myth: Word of Mouth Marketing is about getting others to spread your ‘marketing message.’

Truth: Word of Mouth Marketing is really about building a great product and letting your customer pass on the news however they feel.

Word-of-Mouth marketing builds immediate value and worth for your company/product because it comes from a trusted source – business partners, peers, relatives, friends and so forth. How many times have you tried that new razor or brand of gum just because someone else told you how great it was? I bet you can think of at least one time and it may even be recent. That was Word-of-Mouth advertising – effortless to do and great for the product.

But how can this be encouraged and transfer over into a trade show environment? Word-of-Mouth can greatly increase the interest at your booth during a trade show.

Try some of these simple techniques to help boost the word that is spread about you at a trade show.

>> Engage the attendees. Like we have said before it’s all about keeping the attendee entertained. Product demonstrations are a great way to engage the attendees giving them the ‘wow’ factor you are looking for. The ‘wow’ factor is what prompts them to turn around and whisper in the ear of others – check out xxx’s booth, their product is really cool.

>> Interact with them. Take their photo at your booth. Utilize this a couple of ways: either send a white paper after the show with their photo or let them know you will be using it in your newsletter or posted on a web page thanking all of the visitors you had. Conducting interviews or surveys gives you an opportunity to mingle and gather valuable feedback information all at the same time.

>> Ask their opinion. Asking for their honest opinion of your product or service can prompt conversation as well. This is a opportunity to get some feedback from the end users, giving you an incite into what they may be saying to others out there. Ask if they have ever recommended your product to anyone they know. This may give you a good idea on how word of mouth works for you.

>> In last months July newsletter, we talked about choosing your Promotional giveaway. Well, this little item is also intertwined with word of mouth at the trade show. If it unique enough the show-goers will be spreading the news – visit booth # to get your own. The giveaway can work for you throughout the whole show. A carrying type item will do the advertising for you.

>> Lastly, start early with your advertising efforts. Promote your strongest reason to get the attendees to start talking about visiting your booth before the show even begins. Enticing them to tell their fellow associates attending the show will draw more visitors to you. In the end more word of mouth will be spread.

Remember, it’s not about you, it’s about your product and how much they – the users – like it. The more buzz you create the greater word spread will be achieved. Isn’t that what you are aiming for?

Trade Show Tips - Spread the Word

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 13:48:00 +0000

T.I.P.S. #1
Try encouraging referrals, offer incentives, discount the next order or send a gift - do whatever it takes to encourage your current customers to spread the word and start talking about your product with everyone they know. But, keep in mind, it only works if it’s a great product/service backed by great customer support and the honest belief in your product/service. Simply put – that is the key.

T.I.P.S. #2
Ask for testimonials. Why? People believe testimonials and you can use them to your benefit too by adding them to your advertising campaigns.

Try our Instant Idea & Advice on Your Promotional Give Away

affordable1@gmail.com (Trade Show Guru) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 19:53:00 +0000

Your promotional giveaway is the symbolic item representing your company’s image and reputation. Don’t think so? Well, it does. Your giveaway is your company’s image carried around at the show that can catch potential clients attention and it’s part of your advertising campaign when it arrives home with your attendee. It may end up on their desk at the office or at home working for you day after day.

But, why put so much emphasis on it - it isn’t a pair of diamond earrings or anything? The point is to make your visitors stop by your booth for just long enough to learn something about your company. Having an effective ‘tool’ to grab them and keep them around will help you gather the leads you are trying to obtain.

It’s the second most important visual piece to your trade show marketing efforts – your display being the first. So, before it’s too late, get rid of the ‘Blah’ trade show giveaway. Spark the interest of others at the show with your next giveaway item.

Give yourself some guidelines when choosing your promotional item. A treasure chest full of treats awaits. Most view the giveaway item as either the most fun trade show decision or the absolute hardest. Endless choices, where to start… from memory sticks, bouncy balls, to calculators, key chains, and mouse pads, also mini radios, the always bright highlighter and the ever popular pen -- all of these and more. So, what suits you all depends on what your ultimate objective is.

With so many choices available, what will fit your company best? We’re hoping this helps.

>> Sample products are great to giveaway and very effective. For example: a day spa may give away samples of the most popular lotion or facial mask.

>> Develop a theme for the show and base your promotional item on that theme.

>> Tip on saving money – stretch it if you can… Order a higher quantity for a better, lower price per piece. Try this… double your trade show giveaway by turning it into a Thank You Gift for your daily customers. This can save money and promote future uses.

>> Price no object… keep in mind the cost spent doesn’t mean a better impression. You may not have to spend as much as you think.

>> Go Green your objective… recycled promotional products are the latest rave. From tote bags, 100% organic cotton beach towels, bamboo shaft umbrella to a simple ball pen made from 100% renewable corn. Hop on the Go Green train today.

So, what other options are there.

>> Can’t decide on what ‘item’ reflects your company best… opt for the Gift Certificate or Coupon route - a valuable item to encourage future purchases.

>> Information give away… what if you’re a ‘sell your mind’ kind of company such as, motivational speakers, freelance copywriters, graphic designers? You get the idea – pay for their brain kind of a service. Well, they have no physical ‘product’ so what could they give other than the traditional pen? How about a “How To: Booklet”, DVD or CD with custom label - free information on tips and techniques is a valuable use-it-now-tool. Go ahead and try the information give away. Provide them with your knowledge for free is also another way of wowing the visitor with what you have to offer. Just make sure it is helpful and is related to the target audience.

Make your promotional item work for youafter the trade show is all said and done.

Promote your company after the show… by utilizing your giveaway to promote website activity by coding each giveaway with a serial number. After the show, post the winning number on your website. They will have to visit your site to find out if they won. The potential website visit will give them yet another chance to become familiar with the products/services you offer. But be careful, make sure you tell them about the Bonus gift or they won’t go to your website.

Know how to distribute your promotionalitems effectively.

>> “Gift grabbers” Stop them dead in their tracks!: You’ve seen it, they probe your booth for that ‘free item’ and then they’re off to the next. So… combat this and don’t stack them on your table! Your gift is not necessarily free-for-the-taking and you certainly don’t want to diminish the value of the ‘gift’ if everyone can have it.

>> Try Personal selection: Personally hand select each ‘gift’ recipient. This opens a 1-on-1 conversation allowing you to qualify with whom you are speaking and reiterates your appreciation of their time and booth visit.

>> You give and YOU get method: This one takes a bit more effort on your part but may lead to the best pay off. Use a Lead form. Have the prospect fill out a very short form asking no more than 4 quick questions. Include a spot where they can leave their contact info too. Once completed reward them with your ‘free gift’. You give them something tangible and in return YOU get an open door for the future to contact and follow up.

Ultimately, your trade show giveaway does not make or break the overall true success of your show. But, it should be viewed as a tool – a very significant tool – a marketing tool with the magnitude to remain in the forefront of the potential client’s mind and life.