Grow Your Own Expo Event
approx 3 minute read
Exhibitions can be expensive
Whilst there is a time and a place for them, we’ve found that self-led events in your local area can be just as effective.
Whether you sell B2B or B2C, there is a huge opportunity in local eventing.
But where to start? Here’s a simple 10 step plan for hosting an event in your region…
#1 The Basics
Date: Avoid weeks with a bank holiday near them and check for sporting or music events that could cause travel chaos on the day of your event.
Time: Guests are likely to be other business owners, or employees, so we’ve found that holding events between 3pm – 7pm midweek works well.
Venue: Consider holding the event at your workplace. Guests will get a better feel for your business, plus, it’s free! If you don’t have space, look for interesting spaces to hire like galleries or period style buildings. Or ask us! Many of our Nettl studios have meeting rooms and spaces to hire.
#2 The Guest List
Compile a guest list from your client database or buy targeted data. Aim to invite as many people as possible to ensure you end up with a decent number of guests. In our experience, 10% of those invited will register to attend, then 50% of those will turn up on the day.
#3 The Fun Factor
Having a fun factor is another incentive for people to attend. It helps to break the ice and guests will stick around for longer. We’ve held a silent auction, ran a beer pong tournament and hosted game shows.
#4 The Online
Create an online home for your event. Whether that’s a landing page, or a one page website, we can help. We found Eventbrite a useful tool to manage registrations and the ticketing process. But we can build a website, a landing page, and add bookings or other integrations.
#5 The Printing
Ask us to design and print some unique invites. Before you post them, make sure your online pages are live. We can also help with sales brochures, leaflets or any marketing materials you want to hand out on the day. Ask us about workwear for your team and branded merch too.
#6 The Socials
Social platforms are a great (and free) way to spread the word about your event. Schedule regular posts in the run up to your event. Need help? Check out our Social Media packages.
#7 The Emails
Schedule emails to go to the guest list in the lead up to the event. One to coincide with the invites landing, one 2 weeks prior, and one 1 week prior. Make sure you have permission to email beforehand.
#8 The Decor
Make your event space look amazing. Branded fabric backdrops, tablecloths and deckchairs can work wonders in an empty space. Put flags and banners outside the venue to help with navigation. Ask us for ideas.
#9 The Big Day
Make sure everything is ready at least 30 minutes before the advertised start time. Try to engage with every guest and collect details from everyone who attends.
#10 The Follow Up
Your event will likely pass in a blur so it’s important to follow up on those contacts. Schedule calls and emails in the days following the event to continue conversations.
Need a helping hand?
Have a chat with your local Nettl studio about your event or exhibition plans, or marketing strategy.
We’ve kitted out thousands of successful events and can share some useful insights to ensure your expo is a hit.
