Four Simple Rules In Designing Graphics for Trade Shows

Not all graphic design is created equal. For example, the same rules don't apply to both brochures and print ads. Each of these marketing tools has a different purpose and is aimed at an audience with different levels of interest. The ad has to hook the audience quickly, while the brochure audience has a higher stake in your product or service.

The same is true for expo designs. Your booth has to stand out among hundreds of others on a crowded trade show floor. Therefore, you have to attract attention quickly and try to hold that attention. Think billboard, not brochure.

Color Forms

It can be argued that color is the most important detail of trade show display graphics. Colors have a wonderful way of establishing the mood of a particular space. Vivid and lively colors can inspire verse and song, while drab and dull colors can dampen even the highest of spirits. Attendees at a trade show will make subconscious assumptions about a booth based on color. Your color scheme should reflect your brand, but you also want it to be inviting. Use colors and color combinations to make the biggest visual impact while maintaining a professional appearance. Incorporate a color not used by your competitors.

Word Up

When designing text in with your graphics, we stand by three simple rules. 1) Select a font that is easy to read. 2) Use a color that helps your copy stand out from the background. 3) keep the copy to a minimum. i.e., think billboard, not brochure. Your objective is to get attention, not tell your entire company story.

Form Follows Function

As with all graphic design, when laying out your trade show displays, consider balance and proportion of the overall composition. Consider where you want visitors' eyes to go when they view your display. Graphics tell a story, so help people follow a flow that enables them to experience the full impact of the design. Also, remember the scale of the finished product. A photo that looks great on your website or in your brochure may not be large enough to use for an eight-foot display.

Let There Be Light

You want your graphics to be seen by as many people as possible right? Make sure your graphics are well-lit with quality display lighting that enhances the imagery and messaging of your graphics. In fact, lighting and color are extremely similar because they both have an impact on mood, draw attention to your space and-- if they are poorly executed-- they will convey the wrong message to attendees.


Peter "The Printer" Lineal
Founder/CEO
Plum Grove
2160 Stonington Avenue
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
Ph: 847.882.4020 Ext: 133
www.PlumGrovePrinters.com
PeterL@PlumGrovePrinters.com


Printing, Marketing & Promotional Products with Powerful Execution.