Everything You Wanted to Know About Exhibition Stand Graphics (but were afraid to ask!)

As you might expect, here at Guardian Exhibition & Display we’ve seen more than a few display stands in our time.  This means we understand completely how graphics can make or break a stand, with the potential to create a truly high impact impression on event visitors.

Yet getting it right can be tricky, especially when businesses can feel tempted to save money on graphics and concentrate on other display aspects instead.  However, the potential low impact impression you’ll create by using weak, poor-quality graphics is one you won’t want to risk at your next event.

So grab yourself a coffee, and read on for everything you ever wanted to know about exhibition stand graphics.

Size matters…and placement is important

There’s no point commissioning a graphic designer to come up with something that boldly represents your brand in all its glory, only for nobody to be able to see it!   Try testing out your display before the event.

(Don’t forget to check for any typos, too – there isn’t much worse than a mistake in two-feet high lettering that you only discover on exhibition day itself!)

Go big with your logo

“People already know who we are,” some companies tell us, preferring to get on with engaging potential customers at their stand rather than showcase their logo.  But they’re missing a trick.  If people remember your logo, they’ll remember you…so display it big, high, and with as much emphasis as you can.

Colour and quality are king

Unless you have all the professional resources to hand, don’t try and print your own images.  You’ll simply stand out amongst your competitors for all the wrong reasons.  The high quality definition that professional design and printing brings will impress your visitors, conveying the image that your company is just as high quality!

Colour-wise, choose hues that work well with each-other, avoid using different shades of the same colour, and avoid anything too abrasive or mismatched.

Be clear with your messaging

Don’t be half-hearted, or give in to the temptation of trying to appeal to anyone and everyone with your brand message.  Keep it light-hearted and playful, or serious and meaningful.  You can’t have both…or at least we haven’t seen any successful attempts!

If you can get away with it, try a clever tagline or catchphrase (this could be a good excuse for some team brainstorming in the pub!) and remember to use a clear typeface, so all your hard work isn’t wasted on the day.

Remember that graphics tell a story…

…and people tend to prefer new, compelling tales than old ones they’ve already heard many times before.  Don’t be afraid to update your graphics if you feel they’re starting to look tired.

Also remember that your stand isn’t a brochure

Brochures are luxurious and aspirational (well, at least they should be!).  You hand your brochure to a visitor, with the hopeful intention that they’ll pore over it later on with their drink of choice. 

By contrast, your event stand needs to capture immediate attention, so make sure yours has a strong focal point, with clear and friendly images that support your chosen message.

Put your graphics in the spotlight

After all that effort, it would be a shame not to really, wouldn’t it?  Imagine the dazzling impact your company could make if your stand had the right kind of lighting…seen from across the room and completely obliterating your competitors’ attempts to shine in the process?

Our friendly and professional team can help you achieve all of this at your next event, and much more besides!   You’ll be amazed at how easy it can be to create a memorable first impression that your company can be truly proud of, tailored for any exhibition.