What to Expect When You’re a Vendor at the MMBOB Expo
- A'Ja Rolfe
- May 28
- 3 min read
Updated: 23 hours ago
Being a vendor at an expo is more than just setting up a table and hoping for sales. It’s an opportunity to build your brand, connect with new audiences, and create long-term relationships that fuel your business.
With the MMBOB Vendor Expo coming up on June 22, now is the perfect time to prepare. Whether it’s your first expo or your fifth, these tips will help you show up prepared, professional, and profitable.
🛍️ 1. Start with a Strong Display
Your booth is your storefront. Make sure it's visually appealing and easy to navigate. Align it with your brand.
Must-haves:
Tablecloth or banner with your logo
Clear product pricing and signage
An organized display (not cluttered)
Business cards or QR codes for your site/socials
A “wow” element (samples, lightbox, or branded backdrop)
Tip: Use Canva or VistaPrint to create affordable signage in your brand colors.
🧠 2. Know Your Brand Pitch
People will ask, “What do you do?” Be ready with a short, confident answer that speaks to:
What you offer
Why it’s different
Who it’s for
Practice it. Say it with pride.
Example: “I make handcrafted candles inspired by Black joy and self-care rituals. Each scent is named after a feeling we deserve to feel.”
💳 3. Be Ready to Sell (Not Just Showcase)
Set clear goals: Are you there to sell products? Build your email list? Book services?
Have your systems ready:
Payment options (Square, Cash App, Zelle, etc.)
Inventory organized and priced
Receipts or confirmations if you're taking orders
Upsell bundles or specials for the day
🖤 4. Engage & Educate
Don’t just stand behind the table—talk to people. Ask them questions, share your story, and invite them to follow you.
Pro tip: Bring a signup sheet, offer a giveaway, or have a “Spin the Wheel” game for engagement.
📸 5. Capture the Moment
This is content gold. Assign someone to snap photos, take video clips, and capture you in action. Later, you can turn that into:
Instagram reels
Website testimonials
Behind-the-scenes stories
📦 6. Follow Up After the Event
The work doesn’t stop after you pack up. Within a few days:
Thank new followers/customers via email or DM
Post photos and recap highlights
Reach out to collaborators or other vendors you met
Relationships > transactions.
🗓️ Final Thoughts
The MMBOB Vendor Expo isn’t just another event—it’s a celebration of Black business, community, and culture. Show up like the CEO you are.
🌟 Additional Tips for Success
Networking Opportunities
Expos are a great place to network. Connect with other vendors and potential collaborators. Share ideas and experiences. This can lead to future partnerships.
Marketing Your Presence
Promote your attendance before the event. Use social media to let your audience know where to find you. Create buzz around your booth. This can increase foot traffic and potential sales.
Preparing for Questions
Be ready for questions about your products and services. Anticipate common inquiries. This will help you engage better with potential customers.
Understanding Your Audience
Know who your target audience is. Tailor your pitch and products to meet their needs. This can make a significant difference in your sales.
Setting Up Efficiently
Arrive early to set up your booth. This gives you time to make adjustments and ensure everything is in place before the event starts.
Utilizing Technology
Consider using technology to enhance your booth. Tablets for showcasing products or taking orders can streamline the process.
Creating a Memorable Experience
Think about how you can create a memorable experience for visitors. Unique displays or interactive elements can leave a lasting impression.
Gathering Feedback
After the event, gather feedback from attendees. This can provide valuable insights for future expos.
Planning for Next Steps
Have a plan for what comes after the expo. Whether it’s following up with leads or adjusting your strategy, be proactive.
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