10 Things We Learnt from our First Trade Show

Last month we attended our first trade show: Scotland's Trade Fair Autumn. It's safe to say it was a daunting experience, a lot of preparation went into it and we spent a fair amount of time online trying to find tips and advice. In the end it seems all of our hard work paid off and we're delighted to announce we have some lovely new stockists! We've also booked in to the Spring Trade Fair in January which we're really excited about now we know a little bit more about what to expect. We thought it might be helpful to share 10 things we learnt from our first trade fair as this is exactly the sort of post I was looking for beforehand!

1. Trial Run your Display

After spending ages on Pinterest, sketching out ideas and sourcing/making your display pieces it's really useful to try a test run of it all together. It might be tricky to set up in your home/studio but it'll be worth it if it helps fix any issues you might not think of in advance of the big day! We double checked our sizes and masking taped out the measured space in the living room then laid everything out best we could, with the products, then stood back to see what was missing - a few things! If we hadn't had a trial run we might have missed some last minute opportunities to improve our display.

2. Pack a 'Tool Box' for Set Up

We had a bit of a worry that something might be forgotten so it seemed easiest just to pack up all sorts of tools so every eventuality would be covered. Usual tool box stuff; hammer, screw driver, pliers etc along with different tapes, velcro, glue, blue tac, string, wire, pins, spare paint, brushes... you get the idea! It meant even if something got damaged we should be able to repair it, disaster averted.

3. Bring a Notebook

Your notebook is probably your most powerful secret weapon, together with a stapler and pen! You'll be meeting so many people for the duration of the event that there's a very good chance you won't remember who's who but with the help of your notebook and tip no. 8 you'll be sorted. Simply staple every business card into your notebook and write down the person you met's name along with anything that stands out about your chat with them. This way you can use your notebook to send them a personal email after, as follow ups are so, so important.

4. Pack an 'Admin Box' for Trading Days

Much like your tool box, your admin box should be filled with things you might need to keep you organised. Ours had calculators, additional order forms, a folder for keeping completed order forms, hole punch, stapler, etc. Also bottled water, snack bars and mints to keep us going when we weren't able to take a break.

5. Check Everything Fits in the Car

This one sounds really obvious but if it doesn't fit then it's better to find out before the day you're meant to be travelling so you can do something about it in advance! We're lucky ours does with room to spare but then we do have a big car.

6. Practise Conversation Starters

This also sounds daft, but if it doesn't come naturally to you (which it might not if you're working from home and not interacting with other humans every day) then you'll feel more confident knowing you've practised what you might say to make a good impression on potential stockists. This could be a simple 'hello, have you travelled far today?' or an opening statement to introduce yourself/your business.

 7. Give Everyone Something

People are quick, they have lots to see and often know exactly what they're looking for before they even arrive. If they stop at your stand, even briefly, then you have an opportunity to give away information which they might then look at after the show and see something they missed in their earlier rush. The more you hand out the more opportunities you create for potential stockists in future.

 8. Remember to ask for Business Cards

When possible if you've given someone your information, whether it's a brochure pack or business card, ask for their details in return! You can keep these in your notebook to follow up, or ask them if you can add them to your mailing list which keeps possible business relationships open for future enquiries.

9. Network

Trade shows aren't just about getting orders from shops but are a great opportunity to make friends with likeminded business owners. You all have similar experiences to share and there's no one better to get advice from than someone who's been there before. Try and find some time to see the other stands and introduce yourself to others.

10. Relax!

Relax and try to enjoy yourself, it'll show and you'll come across as more confident in your products. Let people see your enthusiasm and passion shine through!