If your small business attends local events, trade shows, or festivals, chances are you’ve noticed custom-printed tents. Other companies within your niche probably have a tent printed with their logo, slogan, brand colors, website, or any other information that grabs the attention of people walking by. Businesses typically use event tents to not only catch the eye of potential customers, but to also spread brand awareness. People who don’t even visit a company’s stand at an event can still become familiar with their brand by seeing it printed on the canopy. Because of their custom designs and large size, it’s easy to assume that buying a custom canopy is expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. It’s important to find a tent that fits your small budget without sacrificing good quality. Here are some helpful tips to look for when shopping for an event tent.
Don’t Choose Cheaper Materials
While tents that are constructed with cheaper frames and canopies always cost less than others on the market, they end up not being worth the money you save. You can still find well-made tents that aren’t too expensive. For instance, many companies sell cheap tents with nylon canopies. This might be good for one-time use, but nylon easily rips when exposed to outdoor weather conditions or when stored, meaning you will have to replace the canopy if you plan on using a tent again. Going with more durable, yet inexpensive material is the best option. It may not be as cheap as something like nylon, but it will end up saving you money in the end. Look for tent canopies made from polyester fabric. Polyester is a great material because it’s knitted so that it will not tear or get ruined in the elements. It’s also easy to print on, guaranteeing you good-looking graphics. It’s also best to keep this tip in mind when shopping for a tent frame. If your tent will be set up outdoors, it’s in your best interest to find one that will not rust, such as steel or aluminum frames.
Go with Logo Printing or Stock Canopies
When getting your canopy printed with your design, sometimes getting all the peaks and valances of the fabric printed costs a lot. While some companies offer all-over printing for better prices than others, if you are looking for a more cost-effective layout, many printing companies have the option for customizing specific sections of the canopy. By only getting part of the canopy printed with your custom design, the printing services will not cost as much. Usually printing services allow you to get the middle section of the peaks and valances personalized with your design for a fraction of the price. This still gives you an eye-catching design that advertises your business, but you don’t have to pay too much. Some small businesses even go with stock color canopies rather than custom-printed ones. If you are going with a stock canopy, such as a white or red color, make sure you include branding for your business somewhere else, such as on a banner attached to the tent or on a flag setup in front.
Look for Free Design Services
Finally, when having your tent printed with your custom design, try to find a company that offers free design services. This is especially true if you need help with your graphics. No one in your business might have experience in graphic design. Just because you don’t know a professional graphic designer doesn’t mean you can’t get a nice-looking print for your canopy. Several tent printing businesses will help you design your dream tent canopy, but many printing companies charge for their services. If you need help customizing a tent, see if you can find a printing business that has free design services. Keep in mind, that sometimes even free design services will charge you if they keep alternating your print based on suggestions from you.
The Bottom Line
Getting a high-quality tent that you can use at many events doesn’t have to be an expensive excursion. The important thing to know is what to look for and not to go with a low-quality product because it’s the cheapest one you can find.
