What’s better than a pumpkin-spiced latte this fall? Well… lots of things, including Classic’s Biggest SALES Promotion EVER – “Holiday Lights!” Backlit fabric graphics dominate trade shows and events. Now’s the perfect time to upgrade your exhibit before the 2026 trade show season.
SuperNova Holiday Lights!
From 10/15 to 12/15, enjoy 15% savings on (60) SuperNova LED Backlit Designs across Classic’s entire line — ecoSmart, Gravitee, Symphony, Visionary Designs, and SEGUE.
Want to modify or customize these designs? Of course – We’re Classic Exhibits (not some pull-it-off-the-shelf importer)! We welcome modifications so you can create the perfect exhibit for your customer.
See Exhibit Specials in Exhibit Design Search to explore all (60) SuperNova backlit designs.
Choose From:
(20) 10 ft. Inlines
(20) 20 ft. Inlines
(16) Islands
(4) Lightbox Stands
Santa says, “Nothing says the holidays like Backlit Graphics on a trade show display from Classic Exhibits. Along with candy canes, wooden toys, cookies, and the Die Hard movie.”
About Classic Exhibits
For over 30 years, Classic Exhibits has been designing and building creative custom solutions for our Distributor Partners and their clients. As North America’s largest private-label exhibit manufacturer, we have the unmatched capability, capacity, and creativity to create 3D projects ranging from 10 x 10 inline displays to 60 x 80 double-deck islands.
Ideally, every service provider or manufacturer would love to have potential clients visit their facility. But that’s not practical. Their next best option is to exhibit at a trade show where they can showcase their brand, products, and services in an exhibit. For many companies, a custom trade show product display allows them to place their products “front and center” in the booth space.
Many trade show product stands are designed to facilitate demos, tastings, or giveaways, while also functioning as a graphic anchor for the booth. For example, imagine eight layered shelves with bags of dog food on a 12 ft. tower, each shelf featuring a different product line. Not only is the presentation visually impactful, but it also allows the booth staff to show the products and increase attendee engagement. The more engagement, the more likely a higher ROI on the trade show investment.
When to Leverage Trade Show Product Displays
Not every exhibitor needs product displays. For most service-focused companies, like consulting providers, software services, creative/design companies, and event planning agencies, their trade show booth will feature large graphics, comfortable seating, and A/V, like monitors and LED video tiles.
However, for companies with physical products, the ability for clients to see, touch, taste, or smell their products is crucial to their trade show success. For them, “show and tell” isn’t standing in front of a monitor. It’s handing the product to an attendee, inviting them to participate in a demo, and giving them the opportunity to test it right then and there.
Too often, however, a poorly designed exhibit invites clutter in the booth. Attendees shy away from entering the space and the clutter damages the brand and the message. Professional exhibit designers understand how to maximize the overall presentation with shelves, product displays, and fixtures while creating an efficient space for demos and traffic floor. The booth simply works as a marketing tool from the first day to the last day of the trade show.
Trade Show Product Display Stands: Elevate Featured Products
Display stand options like pedestals, integrated lighting, or rotating stands vary widely depending on each exhibitor’s strategic marketing requirements. In some cases, the perfect stand already exhibits. For example, this article features “8 Display Stand Options to Showcase your Products.”
In other cases, an existing product display will need to be modified or custom designed to fit an exhibitor’s specific requirements.
If your goal is to showcase products as a visual design feature in your booth, consider these examples as ideas:
Islands
VK-5160 | Custom Island. Enticing exhibitors to step into your booth is the goal of every exhibitor. The open floor plan invites attendees into the space and the multiple counters and shelves make it easy to show products.
VK-5158 | Custom Island. Drop dead gorgeous! The VK-5158 custom island has an impressive multi-purpose tower, complete with 28 shelves and 4 product showcases.
VK-5195 | Island Exhibit. An effective trade show display should be practical, like including storage, shelving, and seating.The reconfigurable VK-5195 combines practical product displays, meeting space, and closet storage into an attractive exhibit designed to showcase products and promote conversation.
Inlines
GK-1021 | Gravitee Inline. The Gravitee Modular Wall System includes extensive shelving options, SEG fabric graphics, and attractive LED accent lighting. In addition, there’s a large reception counter with backlit logo and locking storage, and space for a casual seating area.
VK-1359 | Custom Inline. Practical and dramatic are not mutually exclusive. The VK-1359 perfectly blends dramatic 3D LED lighting, a stunning pergola design, and practical shelving.
ECO-2038 | Sustainable Inline. Eco-friendly products are all the rage and the ECO-2038 makes showcasing those products both attractive and easy. The design has 12 shelves and 3 slatwall for products. These are just the tip of the iceberg with over 200 inline and island designs in Exhibit Design Search preconfigured for trade show product display shelves. Not seeing the perfect design for your marketing goals? No problem. Nearly every design in Exhibit Design Search can be modified to include shelves, pegboard, or retail fixturing.
Trade Show Product Display Shelves: Showcase Multiple SKUs with Style
Not every exhibitor needs extensive shelving. Some want to highlight a new product or a limited number of SKUs on the show floor. For those exhibitors, a trade show product display kiosk makes more sense. Kiosks are the perfect choice when exhibitors want to concentrate attention on a limited number of products and maximize their floor space. The kiosks below demonstrate how a kiosk or display stand can turn a product into the star attraction.
MOD-1395 | Monitor Kiosk. Custom monitor stand and kiosk with wraparound shelves, LED accent lights, and 2 monitor mounts.
MOD-1397 | Shelving Tower. Upscale shelving display with 12 shelves and hundreds of laminate options.
ECO-13K-A | Shelving Kiosk. Attractive sustainable product display with 3 shelves and double-sided graphics.
ECO-7K | Showcase Tower. Locking eco-friendly showcase tower with LED lighting and storage.
When choosing the right workstation or kiosk for your display, consider how you will use it on the show floor. Not everyone needs a one-size fits all approach. Most product display kiosks or stands can be customized to maximize your trade show objectives.
Trade Show Product Display Ideas: Creative Ways to Stand Out
A trade show is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your products and brand, but in a sea of booths, it’s crucial to find creative ways to stand out. Here are some innovative trade show product display ideas to help you attract attention and leave a lasting impression:
The Power of Interactive Experiences Static displays are a thing of the past. Engage attendees by letting them get hands-on with your products.
Interactive Demos: Allow potential customers to “try before they buy.” This is particularly effective for tech, software, or complex products where a hands-on experience can effectively communicate value. You can even use offline demos to avoid potential Wi-Fi issues in a crowded hall.
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR): Transport attendees to another world. A VR experience can let a person “hike” in a national park while wearing your hiking boots, or an AR overlay can show them how your furniture would look in their home.
Gamification: Create a game that relates to your product or industry. This could be a trivia showdown, a puzzle, or even a branded golf simulator. Offer prizes for top scores to create a fun, competitive atmosphere.
Touchscreen Kiosks: Provide self-guided digital catalogs or interactive information hubs. This allows visitors to explore your offerings at their own pace.
Captivating Visuals and Sensory Marketing Appeal to multiple senses to create a memorable and immersive experience.
LED Lighting: Use creative lighting to highlight your products. Spotlights can draw attention to a star product, while colored or ambient lighting can set a mood and make your booth feel like a comfortable lounge. Backlit displays and LED walls are also great for dynamic, eye-catching visuals.
Bold Colors and Graphics: Use a well-planned color palette (60% primary, 30% secondary, 10% accent) that aligns with your brand. Don’t be afraid to use large, high-resolution graphics that tell a visual story and can be seen from across the room.
Multi-Sensory Booths: Incorporate smells, sounds, and even tastes (if applicable) to make your booth stand out. Playing subtle, curated music can create a welcoming atmosphere.
Unique Structures and Shapes: Break the mold of a standard rectangular booth. Curved walls, angled corners, or multi-level displays can trigger curiosity and make your space more visually interesting.
Simple, Yet Effective Ideas Sometimes the most impactful ideas are also the simplest.
Show Your Product in Action: Don’t just place your product on a table. Display it in use. For example, a cat product can be shown on a cat tree, or a clothing item can be modeled on a mannequin.
Offer Unique Giveaways: Move beyond the standard branded pen. Think of useful and creative swag that attendees will actually want to keep, like portable chargers, eco-friendly items, or customized on-site printing.
Themed Booths: Design your booth around a specific theme that relates to your brand or an industry trend. This creates a cohesive and memorable experience.
Trade Show Product Display Setup Tips for a Stronger First Impression
Provide actionable tips for layout, height placement, lighting, traffic flow, and booth functionality. Emphasize how setup supports both form and function.
Bring Your Trade Show Product Displays to Life with Custom Solutions
Still unsure how to showcase your products at a trade show? We get it. Not only are your products unique but how to feature them depends on your branding, messaging, and objectives. Which is why it’s important to work with a professional exhibit designer. At Classic Exhibits, we’ve been transforming “ideas and feelings” into successful trade show exhibits for over 30 years.
As North America’s largest private-label exhibit manufacturer, we have the unmatched capability, capacity, and creativity to create 3D projects ranging from 10 x 10 inline displays to 60 x 80 double-deck islands. Find success on the trade show floor with an exhibit that reflects your marketing message. For more information, see www.classicexhibits.com and explore Exhibit Design Search or request a meeting with a Classic Distributor Partner.
Marketers often assume an island trade show booth will be expensive. And to be fair, it’s not unusual for a 20×20 to a 30×40 to cost from $150,000 to $350,000. Custom Island Booths are not widgets flowing from an assembly line. They are designed to showcase the services and products of a specific company. An exhibit is an investment with the cost often spread over multiple shows and in many cases, multiple years.
However, what if you need an affordable island booth solution? Options like island booth rentals can give you the same “Wow!” factor while attracting attendees, with designs starting at under $50,000. Not convinced? Two examples: the 20 x 20 RE-9168 rental includes multiple counters, double-sided graphic frames, monitor mounts, a presentation area, and even a square hanging sign. The VK-5210 purchase island booth includes (3) double-sided kiosks with monitors, a 12ft. high double-side lightbox, and (2) bar counters for less than $40K.
At most trade shows, island booths are the rock stars, attracting more foot traffic than inlines. Thankfully, it’s possible to mingle with the “stars” without blowing your marketing budget. In this article, we’ll review the basics of an island booth, the advantages, island design trends, and showcase affordable examples of island booths, both for purchase and to rent.
What is an Island Booth?
For North American trade shows, an island booth is defined as any exhibit 20′ x 20′ or larger and is surrounded by aisles on four sides.
Regulations vary by exhibit hall but the following are typical examples from a specific convention center: Maximum height of 30′ in all areas of your booth allowed in North Hall and Central Halls 3-5. Maximum height of 20′ in all areas of your booth is allowed in Central Halls 1-2. Maximum height of 22′ in all areas of your booth allowed in South Halls. No limitations on the number of solid walls for your Island booth. Be sure to check the hall regulations. Note: Hanging signs are permitted above island booths.
In addition, ceiling-supported theatrical truss and lighting are permitted in all standard Island Booths to a maximum height of twenty feet (20 ft.)(6.1m) where ceiling permits. Unlike a 10 x 20, which typically faces an aisle on one aisle (two if on a corner), an island booth, just an actual island, has access on all four sides (depending on the specific design).
Benefits of an Island Trade Show Booth
Size matters… but Island booths offer more advantages than just a larger footprint.
5 Key Benefits of a Trade Show Island Exhibit
#1. Maximum Visibility and Exposure: The 360-degree visibility increases sightlines, meaning attendees can see your booth from any direction, resulting in higher foot traffic to your booth.
#2. Design and Layout Versatility: Exhibit designers love island booths. It provides them with the freedom to design a layout that includes multiple entry points, different “zones” for various activities (e.g., product demonstrations, private meeting areas, reception desks, interactive kiosks, and lounges), and unique architectural elements.
#3. Greater Height: Unlike inline booths, which often have strict height limits (e.g., 8 feet), island booths are generally subject to much less restrictive rules. This allows for taller structures, large towers, and overhead hanging signs, making your booth visible from a distance.
#4. Enhanced Brand Perception: Securing a prominent island booth space shows that your company has a significant presence and is a major player in the market, which can build trust and attract high-value leads.
#5. Flexible Marketing Objectives: Whether your goal is to launch a new product, generate sales leads, or build brand awareness, an island booth can be customized to meet your specific objectives. The ample space allows for dedicated areas for sales conversations, product displays, and hospitality for existing customers.
For companies aiming to maximize their return on investment and create a lasting impression, an island booth is a powerful strategic tool that can redefine their trade show success.
Island Booth Design Features to Maximize Impact
Island booth designs offer a blank canvas for creativity and an opportunity to create an impactful brand experience. To maximize this potential, exhibit designers focus on creating a dynamic, engaging, and memorable space that goes beyond a simple product display.
Layout
A key to a successful island exhibit is a design that is open and accessible from all four sides. Avoid creating visual “walls” or barriers. Instead, use an open layout with multiple entry points to encourage fluid traffic flow and make attendees feel welcome to step inside.
Dedicated Zones: Utilize the ample space to create distinct areas for different purposes. This can include:
Reception/Greeting Area: A welcoming counter near the main aisle to greet visitors and direct them to the appropriate zone.
Product Demonstration Area: A space with clear sightlines for live demos, showcasing your products in action.
Private Meeting Rooms: Semi-enclosed or fully private spaces for in-depth conversations with key clients or prospects, providing a quiet retreat from the show floor.
Lounge or Hospitality Area: A comfortable seating area with charging stations and refreshments, encouraging attendees to relax, which can lead to longer, more meaningful conversations.
Interactive Elements
Interactive Kiosks: Incorporate digital kiosks with touchscreens that allow attendees to explore your products, services, or case studies at their own pace.
Virtual and Augmented Reality: Offer immersive experiences that allow visitors to “interact” with your products in a virtual environment, especially useful for showcasing large equipment, complex systems, or virtual tours.
Demonstrations and Presentations: Use a stage or designated area for scheduled presentations, product unveilings, or Q&A sessions. This creates a focal point and draws a crowd.
Gamification: Use games, contests, or leaderboards to engage attendees and gather contact information in a fun and memorable way.
Lighting
Dynamic Backlit Graphics: Use vibrant, high-resolution graphics, and consider incorporating LED lighting and backlit fabric to make your brand messaging pop. Lighting can be used to highlight key areas, products, or architectural features.
Video Walls: Large video walls or strategically placed LED screens can showcase dynamic content, such as brand videos, customer testimonials, and live social media feeds, capturing attention from a distance and providing a modern, high-tech feel.
Custom Flooring: Don’t forget the floor! Branded flooring or custom graphics can help define spaces, guide traffic flow, and create a fully cohesive brand environment.
Comfort
Lounge Seating: Provide comfortable seating options that encourage attendees to stay longer.
Wireless Charging Stations: Offer phone and device charging stations as a service to visitors, which increases the likelihood they will spend time in your booth.
Refreshments: A small cafe or hospitality bar can be a powerful draw, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere for networking.
By combining these popular design features, a company can transform a simple island exhibit into a dynamic and highly effective marketing tool that leaves a lasting impression on attendees.
Affordable Trade Show Island Booth Solutions
An Island exhibit will almost always cost more than an inline exhibit, However, you don’t need to blow the marketing budget to have an attractive and successful trade show island booth. In fact, start by focusing on your total trade show budget. Many exhibitors make poor financial decisions, either because of poor planning or (frankly) a lack of knowledge. For example, they don’t complete show forms by the early bird deadlines or schedule labor in advance with an exhibitor-appointed contractor, or arrange for shipping in advance.
Now, with your trade show marketing strategy in mind, start exploring island designs that match your requirements. Don’t worry about finding the perfect solution. Most island booth designs are customized to match your needs. Here are a few ideas to jumpstart the process.
VK-5212 | Island Exhibit. This modular island booth features an open floorplan with casual seating, backlit fabric graphics, monitor mounts, and backlit reception counters. Consider adding a hanging sign for visibility in the show hall.
GK-5124 | Gravitee Modular Island. This upscale island booth offers a powerful visual punch for the budget. It’s built with Gravitee Modular Panels, which assemble with tools, making assembly fast (and less expensive). It features two separate seating zones, monitor mounts, and large format fabric graphics.
ECO-4022 | ecoSmart Sustainable Island. A sustainable island booth doesn’t have to cost more. This design has private and semi-private meeting spaces, a double-sided backlit header, and counters with locking storage.
For many exhibitors, an island booth rental has two advantages: it’s less expensive upfront and offers greater long-term design flexibility. That’s a win-win! Modern island rentals have the same features as purchase exhibits with slightly less custom options. Can island rental booths be customized? Absolutely! In fact, most island rentals start with ideas from multiple rental kits, which are then redesigned and personalized for each exhibitor. As a bonus, when you rent, there are no storage costs and the graphics can be reused at your next show, saving even more money. Here are three affordable rental designs. Note that rental prices are in two categories since the structure is a rental but the graphics are a purchase.
RE-9151 | Rental Island Booth. This island design maximizes the booth space by combining rental furniture with (3) 12 ft. double-sided LED lightboxes. Each lightbox includes monitor mounts and there’s a custom reception counter with locking storage and RGB adjustable perimeter lights.
RE-9093 | Rental Island Booth. Curves don’t cost more in this beautiful rental island booth. The modular structures are tall and visually dominant, while keeping the overall space open and inviting. There’s enough room for casual seating and a bistro table and chairs. It even includes a full-size door with closet storage.
RE-9193 | Rental Island Booth. You (U) will love this rental island booth. The backlit graphics act like a beacon drawing attendees into the booth space. There are four monitor mounts for presentations and demos. On one side is a custom reception counter with LED accent lights. On the other side is enough space for multiple sofas or chairs for clients to relax and share.
Comparing Island Booths vs. Inline & Peninsula Booths
At some shows, in addition to island and inline booths, there are a limited number of peninsula spaces. Peninsula booths have many of the same advantages as an island, which can be appealing to the right exhibitor.
There are two types of peninsula booths: (a) one that backs up to Linear Booths, and (b) one that backs up to another Peninsula Booth and is referred to as a “Split Island Booth.”
For all peninsula booths, the exterior of the back wall must be plainly finished and may not contain booth identification, logos or advertisements.
If backed by a row of standard/linear booths, the back wall may be no higher than 4′ for a distance of 5′ from either side aisle and 20′ high in the center of the back wall. These height restrictions must be maintained for a distance of 10′ from the back wall.
Where two (2) peninsula booths share a common back wall (“split Island”), the maximum height may be 20′ in all areas of the booth, including the back wall (same as Island Booth rules, below). Note: Hanging signs are permitted over peninsula booths that are 20′ x 20′ or larger.
Since peninsula booths are less common than islands or inlines, they present unique challenges to exhibit designers. However, it’s that uniqueness that’s its secret weapon. Designers and exhibitors are forced to create exhibits that take into account the multiple aisles, the added height opportunities, and how to position a hanging sign. Peninsula booths have a reputation for unusual shapes and creative branding which makes them intriguing to trade show attendees. See RE-9176 for an example of a rental peninsula booth.
Budget-Friendly Island Booth Solutions from Classic Exhibits
You have choices. More than you might think when shopping for an affordable island booth. Modular wall systems have expanded, which has led to modern island designs with features like backlit fabric graphics, 12-16 ft. towers, curves, and an array of contemporary counters, pedestals, and kiosks. Your biggest decision may be whether to rent or to purchase… OR consider a hybrid approach where you purchase components you’ll reuse over several years and then rent the accessories, like workstations, monitor stands, and charging tables. That way you have much more flexibility from show to show and as your marketing priorities change.
Who We Are
For over 30 years, Classic Exhibits has been designing and building creative custom solutions for our Distributor Partners and their clients. As North America’s largest private-label exhibit manufacturer, we have the unmatched capability, capacity, and creativity to create 3D projects ranging from 10 x 10 inline displays to 60 x 80 double-deck islands. Find success on the trade show floor with an exhibit that reflects your marketing message. For more information, see www.classicexhibits.com and explore Exhibit Design Search or request a meeting with a Classic Distributor Partner.
In September and October, Classic Exhibits and Classic Distributors are featuring two amazing Exhibit Specials:
(7) — Quick Ship Inline Displays at Bonus Prices
(16) — Portable Modular Counters at 10% Savings
For details, see the Exhibit Specials page in Exhibit Design Search.
For over 30 years, Classic Exhibits has been designing and building creative custom solutions for our Distributor Partners and their clients. As North America’s largest private-label exhibit manufacturer, we have the unmatched capability, capacity, and creativity to create 3D projects ranging from 10 x 10 inline displays to 60 x 80 double-deck islands.
Many trade show exhibitors ignore the branding of their tables, like custom tablecloths for trade shows. They default to the white or blue tablecloth supplied by the venue (or nothing at all). But a colorful, branded table throw with a logo can elevate their visibility, especially at smaller shows or events. Think of a full-color branded tablecloth as another display that complements your backwall graphic and ties in seamlessly with other custom trade show exhibit products.
Best of all, trade show tablecloths are affordable for any exhibitor. In this article, we’ll explore your tablecloth options (often called table throws) from basic printed runners to full-color dye-sublimated throws, even tablecloths that convert from 6 ft. to 8 ft. sizes.
Custom Tablecloths for Trade Shows: A Branding Essential
At many smaller trade shows, the organizers will include a 6 ft. or 8 ft. banquet table in the price of the booth space. Not every exhibitor needs a table, but for those who do, a table is an essential tool to display their products and/or promote their services.
Branded tablecloths or table throws instantly create a professional, cohesive, and recognizable brand presence. In a crowded event, they act as a vital marketing tool helping you attract attendees.
Enhancing Brand Visibility and Recognition
A branded table throw is a silent salesperson for your business. It displays your logo, brand colors, and key messaging. In addition, it instantly communicates your brand identity to attendees from a distance, making it easier for them to spot your booth in a crowded exhibition hall. The use of consistent branding across all your materials—from your table throw to your banners and business cards demonstrates professionalism and assists attendees remember your company long after they leave the event.
Creating a Professional Impression
A custom, branded tablecloth adds a layer of polish and credibility, showing potential clients and partners that your business is serious and pays attention to detail. This polished appearance builds trust and encourages trade show attendees to approach your booth with confidence, signaling that you are a reputable company worth engaging with.
Functionality and Organization
Beyond branding, tablecloths serve a practical purpose. They cover the table entirely, concealing any storage, boxes, or personal items you might have underneath. This keeps your booth looking clean, organized, and inviting. Many tablecloths also come with an open-back design, which allows for easy access to stored materials while maintaining a tidy, front-facing appearance.
Types and Quality of Trade Show Tablecloths
If you’ve never shopped for tablecloths for trade shows, you might assume the colors, styles, and prices are fairly standard and the selection limited. Not so. Tablecloths are much like banner stands in that the range and prices are all over the place.
An easy way to think of table throw prices and quality is to compare it to “fast fashion” vs “contemporary/bridge” fashion. Whereas fast fashion is mass-produced and inexpensive using lower quality materials and printing, contemporary fashion offers better quality materials, design, and selection. Sometimes exhibitors need a low cost option. Other exhibitors however may want a tablecloth that will last for an entire trade show season.
Choosing the right trade show tablecloth will depend on your budget and your marketing objectives. But it’s important to remember that your choice will impact your brand’s presence and overall success at the show.
Standard/Draped Table Throws: This common option drapes loosely over the table, providing a classic look. They are ideal if you’re not sure about the exact table size you’ll be using, as they can be adjusted to fit different dimensions. They also excel at hiding items stored underneath the table.
Fitted Table Throws: Tailored to fit a specific table size, these covers have a clean, boxy, and structured look. They offer a professional and polished appearance.
Stretch-Fit Table Throws: Made from stretchy materials like polyester and spandex, these covers hug the table and legs, creating a sleek, modern, and wrinkle-free look. They are great for high-traffic areas as they won’t be easily pulled or snagged, and they are perfect for a minimalist aesthetic.
Table Runners: A more budget-friendly and versatile option, a table runner is a long, narrow piece of fabric that lays across the center of a bare or solid-colored tablecloth. They are perfect for highlighting your logo or a specific product without covering the entire table.
Convertible Table Throws: These tablecloths convert from a 6 ft. to 8 ft. size using hook-and-loop Velcro tabs sewn into both ends. They’re ideal if the table sizes vary from show to show. And like the previous options, they can be printed using dye-sublimation for a rich vibrant print.
The fabric affects the look, feel, and longevity of your tablecloth. So choosing the right material is important.
Polyester: This is the most popular choice for trade show throws. It is durable, wrinkle-resistant, and machine-washable, making it ideal for repeated use and easy transport.
Spandex/Stretch Fabric: Used for stretch-fit covers, this material is excellent for a smooth, wrinkle-free appearance.
Flame-Retardant Fabric: Many trade show venues require display materials to be flame-retardant. It is a good idea to confirm with the event organizers and choose a throw with this certification to ensure compliance and safety.
Printed Tablecloths for Trade Shows vs Plain Throws: Why Design Matters
While it’s possible to order a plain tablecloth in a specific color, why would you? Unless the table throws are meant to be a color backdrop for an event. Instead, create a design that reflects your branding and strategy for the show. Consider the following when designing a tablecloth.
1. Keep It Simple and Focused
Trade shows are visually cluttered environments. To stand out, your design should be clean and easy to understand at a glance.
Prioritize Your Logo: Make your logo the focal point. It should be large enough to be easily legible from at least 10 feet away. The standard and most effective placement is centered on the front panel of the throw.
Limit Text: Avoid putting too much text on the table throw. Stick to your company name, a concise tagline, and perhaps your website or a QR code. Detailed information should be reserved for brochures or other handouts.
Avoid Visual Clutter: Don’t crowd the design with too many images, graphics, or busy patterns. A simple, professional design is more memorable and less overwhelming.
2. Leverage Your Brand’s Visual Identity
Your table throw should be a seamless extension of your brand.
Use Brand Colors: Incorporate your official brand colors to create a consistent and recognizable look. High-contrast colors are best for visibility, ensuring your logo pops against the background.
Maintain Font Consistency: Use the same fonts on your table throw that you use on your website, banners, and other marketing materials. This reinforces your brand’s visual identity.
Provide High-res Files: To ensure a crisp, professional print, always provide your vendor with high-resolution vector artwork files (such as .AI, .EPS, or editable .PDF). Vector files can be scaled to any size without losing quality, which is crucial for large-format printing.
3. Consider the Printing Method
The printing method you choose will impact the final look and feel of your table throw.
Dye Sublimation: This is the preferred method for high-quality, full-color designs. The process infuses the ink directly into the fabric, creating a vibrant, durable, and fade-resistant graphic that won’t crack or peel. It allows for complex, all-over prints.
Screen Printing: A more cost-effective option, particularly for simple designs with one or two solid colors. The ink sits on top of the fabric.
By following these design principles, you can create a branded table throw that not only looks professional but also serves as a powerful and effective marketing tool.
5 Real-World Examples of Tablecloths for Trade Shows
Contour Tablecloths – 6 ft. Fitted tension-fabric table throw for a 6 ft. banquet table. Seamless construction. Front logo only.
Contour Tablecloths – 8 ft. Fitted 8 ft. version with a range of colors and standard dye-sublimated front logo. Fire-resistant.
V-Runner Small and Large. Single-sided runner – 24” and 30” – for unbranded table throws. 100% recycled fabric. Machine washable.
V-Runner Full Dye-Sub – 6 ft. Full dye-sublimated printing on one side. Made of rCELTIC 100% recycled fabric. Indoor use.
Other Ways to Make Your Trade Show Table Setup Pop
You have your branded tabletop. Now it’s time to use it to create an effective presentation to attendees. Think of your trade show table setup as both a flat and vertical surface. Some exhibitors go for a minimalist approach with printed literature, giveaways, and perhaps demo products. Others use tiered displays and risers to expand the surface area not only for the previously mentioned items but for tabletop signs, tablet stands, lighting elements, and bins.
In some cases, organized clutter can be effective. For example, a company that sells stuffed animals in various sizes. The more the merrier as the strategic chaos attracts attention, especially children.
Lightweight, affordable, and creative LED lights are game changers for both large and smaller exhibitors. LED rope lights draped on or in front of a table attract attention. These can be programmed for specific colors and sequences. Many are battery operated, eliminating the need for an electrical outlet. There are now LED spotlights, accent lights, and even fun, playful lights which have no other purpose except to be eye-catching.
Finally, remember the purpose of your table is to engage attendees and facilitate conversations. Leave space to demonstrate your product or to write a note. Having a plan means knowing what should be on the table, what can be hidden under the table, and how to utilize the space as both a visual display and a practical sales tool.
Custom Tablecloths That Fit Your Exhibit Strategy
Most table throws, even full color 8 ft. throws, cost less than $500. Frankly, that’s a bargain price as a marketing tool at any trade show, event, or conference. Don’t be afraid to be bold with your design. Or to have a custom table throw printed for a specific audience, like the RV Show vs. the Outdoor Adventure Show or the Christmas Gift Show vs. the Financial Planners meeting.
For over 30 years, Classic Exhibits has been designing and building creative custom solutions for our Distributor Partners and their clients. As North America’s largest private-label exhibit manufacturer, we have the unmatched capability, capacity, and creativity to create 3D projects ranging from 10 x 10 inline displays to 60 x 80 double-deck islands. Find success on the trade show floor with an exhibit that reflects your marketing message. For more information, see www.classicexhibits.com and explore Exhibit Design Search or request a meeting with a Classic Distributor Partner.
