Overarching Concerns

Hanging a banner may seem like a no-brainer, but consider the following steps so you don't hang yourself up to dry.

• First check with show management to determine what restrictions, if any, the convention center imposes on overhead banners. Some venues restrict banners completely, and others restrict the size of banners and the height at which they can be hung. While your show manual should spell out all possible restrictions, it's always a good idea to verify your plans with show management (in writing) before you arrive at the show.
• Investigate the cost to hang the banner, as costs can vary significantly from city to city and even venue to venue. Remember, banners don't necessarily have to be suspended from the ceiling, so be sure to investigate other, potentially cheaper options, such as floor-based pole systems.
• Make sure your banner arrives with your exhibit and is one of the first crates you open on the floor. Since laborers will usually have to dive some sort of lift into your space to hang your banner, most banners will need to be hung before your exhibit is built. If your banner doesn't arrive until the middle of setup, you may have to stop work - or worse yet, undo some of the work that's been completed - to hang your banner.
• Scout your location on a venue plan that includes columns, ceiling structures, and air ducts. While solid obstructions can block your banner from attendees' views, ventilation systems are just as problematic, as they can easily turn your signage into a sail. Work with show management's operations director to detect such problems before you arrive.
• Sometimes you'll need to abandon the banner altogether; however, you might also be able to compensate for ventilation systems by adding weights or extra support lines to your banner - or to raise or lower your intended banner height to ensure visibility. Also ask show management if nearby exhibitors are using banners, which can block your signage.
• Don't forget the lighting. Just as with your exhibit, lighting varies not only by venue but also by show. Be prepared to order and install a spotlight or two once the banner is hung.