Let’s be honest—having the best booth at a conference, expo, or trade show doesn’t always mean having the biggest budget. Some of the most talked-about booths at recent events didn’t rely on size or spend—they relied on strategy.
Here’s how to get people talking, engaging, and remembering your brand—without breaking the bank.
1. Light It Up (Backlit Walls Are a Game Changer)
A great way to catch eyes across a crowded show floor? Backlit walls. They make your booth pop, give your graphics that wow factor, and immediately elevate your brand’s presence. Even a small 10x10 setup can look high-end with well-placed lighting.
And here’s the best part—it doesn’t have to be custom-built. Many modular or rental backlit displays are budget-friendly and easy to reuse for future shows.
2. Bright Colors = Big Impact
Don’t be afraid of color! A bold, cohesive color palette helps you stand out in a sea of muted tones and black backdrops. Whether it’s through your backdrop, table throw, or even staff apparel—strategic use of color can stop traffic. Bonus tip: Stick to 2-3 brand colors for consistency across everything from your signage to your swag.
3. Engage Your Audience (Water, Games, or Swag—Pick Your Hook)
Some booths try to sell. The best ones serve.
At the Sweets & Snacks Expo, after booths loaded attendees up with sugar and salt, the booth with free water became the hidden gem everyone remembered. It wasn’t flashy—it was thoughtful. And useful.
Need other ideas?
- A simple game or giveaway spinner draws a crowd.
- Sampling (if allowed) is always a win.
- Swag with a twist—more on that below.
4. Giveaways That Spark Buzz During & After the Show
At Expo West, Belgian Boys nailed it. Their now-famous pink puffy bag had everyone talking. People were snapping selfies, tagging them, and even posting after the show. They doubled down with a post-show giveaway campaign on LinkedIn, keeping their brand in front of potential clients well after the event.
That’s what a good giveaway can do—it’s not just stuff, it’s conversation currency. (Although we could have helped them brand it better!)
5. Theme It Out (Yes, Even on a Budget)
Speaking of memorable booths, Kodiak’s country-outdoors themed booth at Expo West stole the show. From the banjo band to the flannel-clad staff and cabin-style backdrops, it was immersive and unforgettable.
Sure, it looked pricey—but a lot of that same impact can be created affordably with:
- Themed clothing (branded flannel, aprons, or vintage tees)
- Stock display elements (barrels, faux grass, woodgrain vinyl flooring)
- Cohesive signage and backdrops
Your booth is a stage—lean into the story. The goal is to create a vibe people want to walk into (and take pictures in).
Final Takeaway: Create the Experience, Own the Moment
You don’t need a double-decker booth and six-figure spend to steal the spotlight. You need clarity, creativity, and a little strategy.
✨ Make your message bold.
👀 Make your booth photo-worthy.
🤝Make it easy for people to connect with you.
🎁And give them something they'll still be talking about after the badge comes off.
Want help bringing your booth to life—even on a budget? The team at eXpo Branders can help with everything from backdrops to branded swag to influencer-worthy giveaways.
Let’s make your next show unforgettable.
