Local fairs and events are amazing opportunities to connect with your community, gain exposure, and boost sales. But with so many businesses in the same space, how do you stand out and attract attention?
The key is creating an experience that people notice, remember, and talk about — not just another booth in the row.
Here’s how to make sure your small business shines at your next local event.
1. Plan Your Goals Before the Event
Before anything else, get clear on why you’re attending the event.
Are you there to:
- Sell products?
- Collect emails or leads?
- Raise brand awareness?
- Connect with other businesses?
Your goals will determine your booth design, materials, and conversation strategy.
2. Invest in an Eye-Catching Booth Setup
First impressions matter. Your booth should be visually appealing from a distance and up close.
Tips:
- Use a branded tablecloth or backdrop with your logo
- Display your best products at eye level
- Add vertical elements (banners, signs, tall displays) to stand out
- Use string lights or accent lighting for indoor events
- Choose bright colors that pop but match your brand
Bonus tip: Include movement! A rotating product display or even a bubble machine attracts curiosity.
3. Offer an Interactive Element
People are more likely to visit (and stay) if they can engage with your booth.
Try:
- Product demos or samples
- A free raffle or giveaway
- A mini game or spinning prize wheel
- A “Guess how many” jar contest
- A quick challenge related to your brand (e.g., “Draw your dream logo”)
Interaction leads to conversation — and connection.
4. Create a Memorable Freebie
Give people something they’ll want to keep or use — not just toss.
Great ideas:
- Branded stickers, pens, magnets, or bookmarks
- A small sample of your product
- A mini eBook or checklist (with a QR code)
- A coupon for future purchases
- A “thank you” postcard with your social media handles
Make sure your business name, logo, and website are clearly visible.
5. Be Friendly, But Not Pushy
The best booth staff are:
- Smiling
- Standing up (not sitting and scrolling on their phone)
- Greeting visitors with a simple “Hi there, feel free to look around!”
- Starting conversations naturally (not immediately selling)
People remember how you made them feel — and a great attitude creates loyal customers.
6. Collect Leads the Smart Way
Don’t let people leave without a way to follow up.
Ways to collect leads:
- Sign-up sheet for your email list
- QR code to a landing page
- Raffle entry form (name + email)
- Instagram follow contest (e.g., “Follow us and show to win a gift!”)
Make it easy and rewarding to stay connected with you after the event.
7. Show Your Brand Personality
This is your chance to bring your brand to life.
Add elements that reflect your personality and niche:
- A fun dress code or uniform
- Music that fits your vibe
- A signature scent or color theme
- Decor that aligns with your story or mission
The more unique and you it feels, the more people will remember it.
8. Promote Before, During, and After
Don’t rely only on foot traffic. Use your platforms to build buzz:
Before:
- Announce your booth location and what to expect
- Tease your giveaway or special deals
During:
- Post live photos or stories
- Share behind-the-scenes or crowd interactions
- Tag the event page and use their hashtags
After:
- Thank people who visited
- Post recap content
- Offer a “missed us?” discount or follow-up link
Event marketing doesn’t stop at the event.
9. Partner with a Neighboring Booth
If you’re next to another small business, create a mini collaboration on the spot:
- Bundle deals (e.g., buy from both and get a discount)
- Raffle entries for visiting both booths
- Social shoutouts tagging each other
It builds community — and increases visibility for you both.
10. Follow Up Fast
If you collect leads, follow up within 48 hours. People forget fast.
Your message can be simple:
- “Thanks for stopping by our booth!”
- “Here’s your exclusive discount code”
- “Here’s the free guide we promised!”
- “Let’s stay in touch — here’s where you can find us online”
Following up turns interest into income.
Final Thoughts: Be Worth Remembering
Standing out at a local event isn’t about being the loudest or flashiest. It’s about creating a moment that feels personal, fun, and different.
So show up with purpose, connect with people genuinely, and create something that sticks. When people leave talking about your booth, you’ve already won.