When it comes to trade show booths, size isn’t everything. Though a large and intricate booth space can be enticing, small booths can still make a big impact. With a little preparation, you can do a lot with the small space you’ve paid for to grab the attention of those passing by and get them to stop by your exhibit.

Below are some ways to make a big bang with a small booth space at your next trade show:

It’s All in the Lighting

Much like it does for an actress or model, proper lighting makes a big difference for small trade show booths. Without adequate lighting, your brand will fade into the background of the exhibit space. Accent lighting and lighted displays are a great way to grab the audience’s attention as they pass by your booth.

If you want an exhibit that pops, position your lights to illuminate the entire back wall, instead of just lighting up your header. For a dramatic effective, you can also light up your eye-catching display(s) from below by pointing a floor light upward.

Draw Them In

You don’t need a large space to attract your perfect customer. Try a giveaway that your ideal customer will actually use, such as a free webinar, white paper or guide. Where you can be creative is with the way you or your representatives attract them in. You don’t have to block the entrance to your booth with a table just because your neighbors do. Create an inviting environment that welcomes conversations and makes prospects feel comfortable.

Create a Stunning Display

Of course, this is easier said than done, but there are a few general rules for designing a small display that makes a big impact at trade shows. Here are a few tips for creating an eye-catching booth display:

• Don’t overload the viewer. Too much information can look cramped in a small booth space. Avoid using too many words or images. Instead, settle on a tagline and single image that communicates your message while still making a statement.
• Keep it simple. Make your display easy for people to read and understand. Avoid hard-to-read fonts and make your graphic large enough for visitors to see when passing by. Focus on your benefits.
• Choose your colors and images carefully. Your display should draw the viewer in without being too busy. You want tradeshow visitors to be interested in what you have to say, not distracted by your visuals.

Print Quality Matters

Not all branded displays are created equal, and there are many options when it comes to custom visuals. The last thing that you want to do is design a beautiful display only to have it fall apart after a few shows. That is why it is essential to choose a professional printer that uses quality materials. Choose a company that is experienced with producing high-quality, custom displays so that your booth makes the right impression.

Ultimately, you will only have moments to make an impression at a tradeshow, so you want to make sure that your tradeshow booth sends the right message. Even with a small space, it is still possible to create a big impact and catch attention from across the room. The best way to attract people to your booth is to create an attractive custom display that shows you mean business.