How to Decorate a Table Display as a Vendor

An interesting table display markets your products and goods to potential customers.

Vending tables are often decorated for display at corporate functions, festivals, concerts and other major events. Everything from books and CDs to cosmetics can be displayed for sale via vendor tables. Renting vendor space at both local and national events is a great business opportunity for those who sell products or services. During these events, you, as a vendor, are able to network, market and even generate sales, so it is important to have a display that will capture the attention of onlookers and potentially draw customers and/or clients to your table.

Instructions

1. Purchase a table covering, such as a plastic tablecloth or length of washable fabric. Sometimes the vending fee will include a generic or basic table covering; however, there may be times when none are provided. Just in case, it is always good to come prepared. Your theme and color choices may change as your products and services do.

2. Decorate your table to complement your product(s). For example, if you are an author, color-coordinate your table with your book's cover. Alternatively, if your table display was being set up during football season, spreading a handful of football-themed party favors across the table might add a nice touch. If you are displaying items like jewelry or cosmetics, use mannequins, racks and even shelving to display the products.

3. Use signage as part of the table decor and to clearly identify your business. If you are offering any special promotions, create colorful, eye catching signs that will ultimately attract customers. Your sign is a part of your branding process; an effective and colorful sign will attract potential customers to you and ensure that they remember both you and your business.

4. Place giveaway items on your table that match or complement the decor. People generally appreciate free stuff. Place a few free pens, keychains or other giveaway items in neat stacks along your table next to your business cards, postcards or brochures. Even better, place them in a wicker basket or other container that matches your color scheme or theme.

5. Create height diversity with your display. A crayon box or large book placed underneath the table covering can give the display added visual dimensions. Create "stair-steps" with a few differently sized boxes, and highlight a different product or sample on each level.

6. Add a guestbook as part of your display; select one that adds to the theme of your business, product or service display. A guestbook allows you to collect potential clients' contact information; this information can be used in future business mailings or advertising campaigns.

Tips & Warnings

• Before the big day of the vending event, take some time to practice setting up your table at home to get an idea of what it will look like on the day of the event. In many instances, there may only be a small window of time allotted for set-up, so this practice time will provide a rough estimate of exactly how much time you'll need to create the perfect table display. Taking a picture of your display also helps to fine-tune your efforts and allows you to see what can be added or changed the next time.

References

• Lifetime: Eye-Catching Craft Show Displays

Resources

• Party City: Mint Party Favors