This cartoon, designed by our friends at American Image (www.american-image.com), speaks to the “wish and a prayer” marketing approach of most exhibitors. It’s a cautionary tale we can’t repeat enough to our customers. Our thanks to Charles Dugan and Jacob Norris for permission to reprint it. 
–Mel White
http://www.linkedin.com/in/melmwhite
mel@classicexhibits.com
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Based in Portland, Oregon, Classic Exhibits Inc. designs and manufacturers portable, modular, and custom-hybrid exhibit solutions. Classic Exhibits products are represented by an extensive distributor network in North America and in select International markets. For more information, contact us at 866-652-2100 or www.classicexhibits.com.
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Tags: American Image, Classic Exhibits, trade show cartoon, Trade Show Marketing
I’m glad you enjoyed the cartoon Mel. We had this item drawn up for us a few years ago for a promotion. Actually, we had many versions of it done but this one seemed to communicate the message the best. The funny story behind this cartoon is that it is based in reality. While attending Exhibitor in 2007 I was walking through a far lane and came upon a man sitting alone in a 10×10 space. He had what was clearly some new type of table top display he wanted to promote sitting on the floor next to him without any graphics. The man himself was sitting on a metal chair with his head in his hands and appeared to by crying. Clearly, none of his other materials arrived on time for the event and he was left with nothing to promote. The image stuck with me over the years as the perfect example of why you should always “plan ahead!”
Great advice– most of your trade show success will most likely come down to how much you’ve planned ahead. Thanks for sharing.