Over the years of running my business, I’d seen lots of greeting card makers attend trade shows and always wondered if I was missing out… and if I could even afford to do one myself. After a lot of back and forth, I finally took the plunge and reached out to the show organisers. I was lucky enough to be accepted into their incubator program — a program for brands under five years old that offers a more affordable booth setup with lighting, a table, and chairs included. I jumped at the chance.
Then came months of planning my booth and saving up for the trip.
It felt like a huge gamble for a small business like mine, but in the end, it was absolutely worth it. I met so many amazing store owners and retail buyers, including some I already work with, and even made sales at the show! I honestly had no idea what to expect, and I was really proud of how my booth came together. I’ve definitely learned a lot for next time… and yes, I already signed up for the summer show (I know, slightly crazy).
One of the best surprises was being placed next to two really lovely card makers with totally different styles to my own. It worked out perfectly because we weren’t competing for the same customers and could each offer something unique. Over the three days, we became friends and even requested to be placed near each other again for the summer show. They introduced me to other small business owners too, and now we have a fun group chat where we chat about the daily ups and downs of running a small business. That was definitely a highlight.
Another big highlight was finally meeting stores I already sell to in person. It was so special to put faces to the emails and messages I’ve exchanged for so long. I also met lots of new stores and heard so many kind comments about my booth, my artwork, and even about me, which really made all the hard work feel worthwhile.
The days were long, and being “on” and smiling all day was exhausting. I joked with a friend that when I got home I’d be Wednesday Addams for the rest of the week. But despite how tired I was, I truly loved getting my brand out there. Seeing all my products displayed together as a full collection was such a proud moment.
All in all, it was a big leap for me, and one I’m so glad I took. I’ll be honest, it was expensive, but the connections and friendships I made have truly made it worth it. I’ve decided to try a full year of trade shows and see if they’re the right fit for me and my business.
I’m incredibly grateful for my small business and so proud of how far it’s come. It paid for my husband and me to fly out to New York City, stay in a hotel in Midtown, cover all our meals (which definitely aren’t cheap), and of course, the booth itself. That still feels pretty surreal to write.
