Outline: 5 Things to Know BEFORE You Buy Your First Custom Pop-Up Canopy
Keyword: [custom pop-up, printed canopy, event tent, canopy design, 10x10 custom canopy]
Author: [Nick Taylor (fake name)]
Publish Date: [January 2020]
Buyer Persona: [Small-Med Business Owner/Marketing Professional/Event Coordinator]
5 Things to Know BEFORE You Buy Your First Custom Pop-Up Canopy
Ok. You’ve mastered your social media and digital marketing campaigns. Now it’s time to get up close and personal with your customers. Event marketing is the most effective way to build trust and brand loyalty, but what do you need to know about canopies before you make the investment? Luckily, top industry pros have given us their helpful insights to ensure you make the right decision for your business.
#1 Consider the Message
If your brand isn't well known, then stating WHAT you do may be as important or as your logo or branding. If you’re walking down the rows of a local event and see a beautiful ocean blue canopy with an amazing anchor graphic printed prominently on the peaks, you will probably admire the art, but not rush over there. If you see the same canopy with four corner flags that read CLAM CHOWDER BOWLS, well now - all of a sudden - you’re stomach is rumbling and you’re speeding towards the canopy.
Pros warn against too much text on your canopy, too. Don't write a book and don't put your phone number on the canopy top. Use a printed back wall or roll-up banner for the fine print. Use the canopy top like a billboard, not a sell sheet
#2 Consider the Vibe
Colors bring the vibe. Pay close attention to the colors you choose with all of your branding. They bring the vibe of your company to your audience and your custom pop-up canopy may be their first impression of your brand. The pros suggest black and white for a classic and clean look. Royal blue has been the standard pop-up canopy color for years, so sometimes royal blue tents can get lost in a sea of shelters unless they have professional graphics to make them POP.
Try experimenting with alternating colors or "flowing" the colors over the sides to make a big visual impact. Most custom canopy manufacturers will have an experienced graphics team that will create mock-ups for your to preview how your design will look on the finished product.
#3 Manufacturer vs. Importer
Event professionals strongly suggest purchasing directly from the actual manufacturer rather than from an importer. Typically, USA-based manufacturers carry high quality frames and hardware with extended warranties and easily accessible customer service teams. This should be a priority in your purchasing decision. While we hope nothing goes wrong with your custom canopy, having a trust-worthy company standing behind their product will make your life easier.
#4 Frame Type
It’s easy to assume that aluminum frames are better because they cost more than steel. Well, that’s not always the case. Both metals have their perks. While hex aluminum canopies are top-of-the-line and very durable, the classic steel models have their place, too. Both steel and aluminum are available in industrial and commercial strength models. Industrial strength is usually the more cost-effective option and is perfect for companies using them 10-12 times per year.
If you have the budget, then consider a super duty frame. A super duty hex aluminum frame will have bigger legs and thicker truss bars. Super duty caliber frames should also have oversized steel footpads. Considering the most commonly replaced parts on a canopy frame are trusses and footpads, purchasing a super duty model will save you money in the long run.
#5 Take Care of Your Canopy
Remember your canopy is a temporary structure. They are not designed to protect you in severe weather and they should never be left unattended. If you do, it is your responsibility, not the manufacturers.
ALWAYS properly stake down or add weights to your canopy for your own safety and the safety of others around you. If you are ever unsure about what to do, a good rule to go by is; "If the weather is too bad for you, it is probably too bad for your canopy". Take it down and be safe.
Buying your first custom canopy is an important step in taking your brand to the next level. With proper design, planning, and care for your custom pop-up tent, it will last you for years and years making it one of the best investments you can make for your company.
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