Decorating Your Event

Exhibit Management

Great event décor does more than beautify a space—it sets the tone, supports your theme, and creates moments your attendees will remember. Partnering with a dependable décor vendor ensures your vision comes to life without adding unnecessary stress. This guide walks you through the steps of selecting vendors, managing logistics, and executing stunning event environments.

Determine décor budget

Determine the décor theme

Decide when and where décor is needed:
  • Plenary Room and Stage
  • Meeting Rooms
  • Meal Rooms
  • Special events
  • Venue Entrance and walkways
  • Exhibit Halls
  • Lobby
  • Registration Area 
  • Restaurants
Brainstorm types of décor which will enhance your theme:
  • Props – perimeter décor
  • Balloons
  • Murals
  • Photo Op Display
  • Entrance treatments
  • Stage displays
  • Dance floor
  • Carpeting
  • Enhanced lighting, gobos
  • Podium
  • Furnishings
  • Backdrops/Draping
  • Temporary Structures
  • Custom Bars and Barbacks
  • Centerpieces
  • Linens/chair covers
  • Candles
  • Flowers
  • Plants
Research and collaborate with décor vendor:
  • Research and identify potential vendors and suppliers
  • Send Request for Proposal (RFP) including budget, dates, venues, timelines, décor needs and theme
  • Receive and review proposals
  • Check references
  • Negotiate material pricing,labor fees and terms as necessary
  • Select vendor
  • Review and sign contract
  • Request W9 and certificates of insurance
  • Pay deposits
  • Set up payment plan with vendor
  • Set up a timeline with vendor for any custom or branded materials being produced
  • Request mock ups of all décor items and have client sign off
  • Receive floor plan from vendor of décor placement and share with venue
  • Verify final arrangements 2 weeks prior to event
  • Verify delivery, set-up and pick-up times 1 week prior to event
  • Take photos of all décor at event
  • Review final bill post event
  • Challenge any discrepancies
  • Pay final fees to vendor for services

Tips and Tricks

Research, ask for reviews and get referrals from past clients to make sure you choose a vendor that fits your needs and is easy to work with.

• Ask for mock-ups of key décor elements ahead of time to ensure alignment with your theme and expectations.

• Review client testimonials and ask for photos of past work to evaluate vendor reliability.

• Create a clear schedule for delivery, setup, and teardown—and confirm it with your venue and vendor one week before the event.

• Assign a team member or planner to walk through and inspect each space after setup.

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