Putting up banners and signs at an event does
more than just help attendees find their way through the facility’s
labyrinth of unfamiliar corridors. They give each meeting a
cohesive look and feel, branding the event with its own
character.
In the past few years, advanced digital technology and sheer
imagination have expanded the role of event graphics. From huge
banners, displays and backdrops to wraps around tour buses or other
vehicles, colorful signage catches attention and generates
excitement. It also can create more visibility and value for event
sponsors, increasing this revenue source for your organization.
When considering event graphics, it makes sense to look to the
experts. A professional sign maker will work one-on-one with you to
conceptualize the graphics that will meet your needs. They will
review your goals and work with you to come up with ideas for
signage that fits into your budget. In addition, they can free up
time for you to deal with all the other event management details by
providing full-service coordination meaning they’ll handle
everything from planning and printing to installation and
removal.
Designer Look
While preparing visuals for your next meeting or special event,
keep the following tips in mind.
Have a plan. Begin by thinking about the big
picture. What is your objective for this event? Characterize the
average meeting attendee and imagine how graphics could enhance his
overall experience.
Keep it simple but strong. Next, determine the
number of graphics that will compliment your event but not
overwhelm attendees. Then, work collaboratively with your venue and
colleagues to select the best locations to hang the signs, keeping
in mind the routes your attendees will be taking each day. Every
graphic should be positioned to break through the visual clutter,
create awareness, provide the greatest impact and fully maximize
marketing and sponsorship dollars.
Determine the look. Be bold and imaginative.
Select images and creative text that will draw attention and
effectively deliver the messages that are important to the host
organization, your company or client, and any participating
sponsors. Have fun with your graphics and take full advantage of
the visibility they provide to dress up the facility or meeting
environment. Carefully select colors and images that will generate
on-site excitement, increase energy levels and leave lasting
impressions.
Use caution, however; organizers and planners often make the
mistake of choosing text, logos or images that are too small for
attendees to see. Graphics and messaging are ineffective if they
cannot be understood easily from a distance. Think “larger than
life,” but be careful not to overpower the event.
Select the products wisely. Whether it’s an
indoor or an outdoor event, a good sign company generally can
develop graphics to fit any location. Grab the attention of the
public and attendees by placing signs at the entrance gate, on the
walls, in parking lots, sidewalks, windows and even on company
vehicles. Banners and signs are no longer limited to standard
sizes. Some can be as large as 105 feet high by 300 feet wide.
Sell, sell, sell. Graphics can provide a huge
source of revenue by attracting sponsorships. Extra-large banners
and displays dramatically increase visibility, and the more
visibility sponsors receive, the “deeper” their pockets might
become. Planners can substantially improve negotiations with
potential sponsors by providing information about the use of
graphics to deliver marketing messages and gain greater
exposure.