We’re having the same conversation with a lot of clients at the moment: “We don’t have a final budget yet, but we need to start planning.”
And the thing is, that’s okay.
The way events are being budgeted has changed. What matters now is having visibility, flexibility, and a clear understanding of what’s essential versus what can evolve later.
To help exhibitors navigate that shift, we’ve created a REAL exhibition budgeting guide. Built from real projects, real challenges, and real conversations.
It’s designed to help you:
• Understand where costs really sit
• Avoid last-minute surprises
• Make confident decisions, even when budgets are still forming
• And importantly, think about those sneaky, often hidden costs.
We`re sharing here just some of what`s inside. Think it`s useful and would like the full thing?
You’ll find the download link in the comments, or DM us and we`ll send it over.
And if you want help applying it to your own event, our team at Saward Marketing and Events is always happy to talk things through. Sometimes a second pair of experienced eyes makes all the difference.
We’re having the same conversation with a lot of clients at the moment: “We don’t have a final budget yet, but we need to start planning.”
And the thing is, that’s okay.
The way events are being budgeted has changed. What matters now is having visibility, flexibility, and a clear understanding of what’s essential versus what can evolve later.
To help exhibitors navigate that shift, we’ve created a REAL exhibition budgeting guide. Built from real projects, real challenges, and real conversations.
It’s designed to help you:
• Understand where costs really sit
• Avoid last-minute surprises
• Make confident decisions, even when budgets are still forming
• And importantly, think about those sneaky, often hidden costs.
We`re sharing here just some of what`s inside. Think it`s useful and would like the full thing?
You’ll find the download link in the comments, or DM us and we`ll send it over.
And if you want help applying it to your own event, our team at Saward Marketing and Events is always happy to talk things through. Sometimes a second pair of experienced eyes makes all the difference.
We challenged Jack to explain what Saward Marketing & Events actually do in under 30 seconds.
His response? “You’re having a laugh, right?”
He did 7 takes, and still wasn’t happy (classic perfectionist). But in reality, it is really hard to sum up everything we do that quickly.
Yes, we build exhibition stands.
Yes, we deliver conferences, activations, and full-scale event programmes.
But what we really do is help brands show up, stand out, and make an impact, and events far and wide.
From event strategy and creative design to logistics, PR, and onsite delivery, we work as an extension of your team.
The trusted partner who handles it all, so you can focus on the experience.
Whether you’re planning your first exhibition or managing a global event calendar, we bring the expertise, calm, and creativity to make it work.
Want to see how we can help with your next event? Get in touch via our DMs, or contact link in the comments.
#EventProfsUK #ExhibitionDesign #EventMarketing #EventStrategy #BrandExperience
We challenged Jack to explain what Saward Marketing & Events actually do in under 30 seconds.
His response? “You’re having a laugh, right?”
He did 7 takes, and still wasn’t happy (classic perfectionist). But in reality, it is really hard to sum up everything we do that quickly.
Yes, we build exhibition stands.
Yes, we deliver conferences, activations, and full-scale event programmes.
But what we really do is help brands show up, stand out, and make an impact, and events far and wide.
From event strategy and creative design to logistics, PR, and onsite delivery, we work as an extension of your team.
The trusted partner who handles it all, so you can focus on the experience.
Whether you’re planning your first exhibition or managing a global event calendar, we bring the expertise, calm, and creativity to make it work.
Want to see how we can help with your next event? Get in touch via our DMs, or contact link in the comments.
#EventProfsUK #ExhibitionDesign #EventMarketing #EventStrategy #BrandExperience
Are events on your to-do list for 2026? If so, partnering with experts WILL save you lots of time and money.
We recently wrote about this for @northerninsightmagazine - and you know we bang the drum for this message constantly.
Head over to their page to find the article, or we`ve put the main `headlines` below for you.
1. Event planning is being added to already full roles
Many marketing and operations leads are expected to deliver events alongside their day jobs, often without the time, tools or experience to do it efficiently.
2. The true cost of DIY events is often underestimated
Internal time spent on research, supplier management, negotiations and last-minute issues quickly adds up.
Evenings, weekends, and hidden costs that rarely appear in the budget.
3. Inexperience creates avoidable risks
First-time or infrequent organisers often underestimate lead times, technical requirements and logistical complexity, leading to stress and potential issues guests will notice.
4. Professional event partners bring experience and buying power
Established suppliers, better rates, smoother processes and informed decision-making help budgets go further and reduce risk.
5. The real ROI is focus, confidence and better outcomes
Working with specialists allows internal teams to stay focused on their core roles, while increasing the likelihood of a smooth event and stronger overall results.
#EventProfsUK #EventPros #EventTips
Are events on your to-do list for 2026? If so, partnering with experts WILL save you lots of time and money.
We recently wrote about this for @northerninsightmagazine - and you know we bang the drum for this message constantly.
Head over to their page to find the article, or we`ve put the main `headlines` below for you.
1. Event planning is being added to already full roles
Many marketing and operations leads are expected to deliver events alongside their day jobs, often without the time, tools or experience to do it efficiently.
2. The true cost of DIY events is often underestimated
Internal time spent on research, supplier management, negotiations and last-minute issues quickly adds up.
Evenings, weekends, and hidden costs that rarely appear in the budget.
3. Inexperience creates avoidable risks
First-time or infrequent organisers often underestimate lead times, technical requirements and logistical complexity, leading to stress and potential issues guests will notice.
4. Professional event partners bring experience and buying power
Established suppliers, better rates, smoother processes and informed decision-making help budgets go further and reduce risk.
5. The real ROI is focus, confidence and better outcomes
Working with specialists allows internal teams to stay focused on their core roles, while increasing the likelihood of a smooth event and stronger overall results.
#EventProfsUK #EventPros #EventTips
Top 5 things to consider when attending or exhibiting an event outside your home country
1. Logistics aren’t just bigger - they’re totally different
Shipping, customs, documentation, local regulations… it all varies country to country.
One missing form or delayed shipment can derail an entire show. Having a team of connections who know the landscape saves unnecessary stress (and unexpected costs).
2. Know the cultural differences
What works for a UK audience doesn’t always translate abroad. From stand design to messaging, to how meetings are arranged, small cultural nuances can make a huge difference to how your brand is received.
3. Local intelligence can make or break the experience
Working with unfamiliar builders or AV teams can be a gamble if you don’t know who you’re dealing with. This is where experience counts, trusted partners with local links mean smoother builds, better communication and fewer surprises onsite.
4. Budget differently
International shows have costs that aren’t always obvious at first glance, duties, storage, local labour rates, venue rules, on-site services, even power can be higher. Understanding the true cost early helps avoid those painful last-minute add-ons.
5. Follow-up is even more important
You may come home with a stack of contacts from a market you’re still learning. Following up quickly and in a way that acknowledges their market norms will massively influence your success rate.
Want to chat with us about these differences, and how we can support? Just get in touch.
Top 5 things to consider when attending or exhibiting an event outside your home country
1. Logistics aren’t just bigger - they’re totally different
Shipping, customs, documentation, local regulations… it all varies country to country.
One missing form or delayed shipment can derail an entire show. Having a team of connections who know the landscape saves unnecessary stress (and unexpected costs).
2. Know the cultural differences
What works for a UK audience doesn’t always translate abroad. From stand design to messaging, to how meetings are arranged, small cultural nuances can make a huge difference to how your brand is received.
3. Local intelligence can make or break the experience
Working with unfamiliar builders or AV teams can be a gamble if you don’t know who you’re dealing with. This is where experience counts, trusted partners with local links mean smoother builds, better communication and fewer surprises onsite.
4. Budget differently
International shows have costs that aren’t always obvious at first glance, duties, storage, local labour rates, venue rules, on-site services, even power can be higher. Understanding the true cost early helps avoid those painful last-minute add-ons.
5. Follow-up is even more important
You may come home with a stack of contacts from a market you’re still learning. Following up quickly and in a way that acknowledges their market norms will massively influence your success rate.
Want to chat with us about these differences, and how we can support? Just get in touch.
As we count down to midnight, we wanted to take a moment to raise a glass to the unsung heroes making this night magical... the hospitality workers! 🥂
From bartenders shaking cocktails and pulling pints, to wait staff keeping spirits high and things on track.
To the kitchen crew cooking up delicious meals for us to see out the year, and the cleaning teams keeping everything clean, safe, and tidy for us to enjoy.
And to all the other hospitality staff, and anyone else working this festive season.
They’re sacrificing their NYE so the rest of us can celebrate in style with family and friends🍾
So here’s to them! May your shifts be smooth, your tips generous, and your post-service party absolutely legendary! You deserve it 🙌
Thank you for making memories for all of us tonight. We see you, we appreciate you!
Happy New Year, everyone. Especially to Jack`s little niece Ava, who we have no doubt is the life and soul of the party right now.
As we count down to midnight, we wanted to take a moment to raise a glass to the unsung heroes making this night magical... the hospitality workers! 🥂
From bartenders shaking cocktails and pulling pints, to wait staff keeping spirits high and things on track.
To the kitchen crew cooking up delicious meals for us to see out the year, and the cleaning teams keeping everything clean, safe, and tidy for us to enjoy.
And to all the other hospitality staff, and anyone else working this festive season.
They’re sacrificing their NYE so the rest of us can celebrate in style with family and friends🍾
So here’s to them! May your shifts be smooth, your tips generous, and your post-service party absolutely legendary! You deserve it 🙌
Thank you for making memories for all of us tonight. We see you, we appreciate you!
Happy New Year, everyone. Especially to Jack`s little niece Ava, who we have no doubt is the life and soul of the party right now.
From all of us at Saward Marketing and Events, we’re wishing you a wonderful festive season! ✨🎄
We hope you’re spending it making memories, sharing laughs, and relaxing with loved ones… and probably not even reading this post because you’ve got better things to do! And that`s the way it should be.
Don’t worry about work! The emails, plans, and projects will all still be here when we return in January. For now, enjoy the magic of the season. 🎁
See you in the New Year, refreshed and ready to make 2026 our best yet!
From all of us at Saward Marketing and Events, we’re wishing you a wonderful festive season! ✨🎄
We hope you’re spending it making memories, sharing laughs, and relaxing with loved ones… and probably not even reading this post because you’ve got better things to do! And that`s the way it should be.
Don’t worry about work! The emails, plans, and projects will all still be here when we return in January. For now, enjoy the magic of the season. 🎁
See you in the New Year, refreshed and ready to make 2026 our best yet!
We all know people love snapping pics at events, but are you designing your spaces to make those photos work for your brand?
Today, Jack is sharing why creating intentional photo moments at your events isn’t just “nice to have”, it’s a brilliant opportunity to boost your brand, engage your audience, and make your event unforgettable!
Next time you plan an event or exhibition, think:
What will make people want to stop at my brand`s space?
What will make them want to photograph it and share that photo?
And what story do you want those photos to tell?
Want to make your next event experience #InstaWorthy for the #TikTokFam then get in touch with us.
We might not be on TikTok, but we know what makes a great photo or video moment.
We all know people love snapping pics at events, but are you designing your spaces to make those photos work for your brand?
Today, Jack is sharing why creating intentional photo moments at your events isn’t just “nice to have”, it’s a brilliant opportunity to boost your brand, engage your audience, and make your event unforgettable!
Next time you plan an event or exhibition, think:
What will make people want to stop at my brand`s space?
What will make them want to photograph it and share that photo?
And what story do you want those photos to tell?
Want to make your next event experience #InstaWorthy for the #TikTokFam then get in touch with us.
We might not be on TikTok, but we know what makes a great photo or video moment.
Data might not be the most exciting part of your event, but it’s one of the most critical.
Too often, event data slips under the radar.
It’s understandable given that there’s so much to think about - logistics, stand design, connecting with clients.
But if you’re not thinking about how your event performed, then how are you going to continue to create impactful events that leave a lasting impression in the future?
At Saward Marketing & Events, we help you put on a show that people will never forget.
And part of that process is looking beyond the show and reflecting on the details:
What worked?
What didn’t?
What happened after the show?
This kind of reflection is where the real opportunities are, and we’ll happily die on that hill.
It’s why we build data and post-event thinking into our process, because your ROI and ROO don`t end when the show does.
It’s these learnings that will make your next event even better.
So if you’re planning an exhibition and want support turning it into real business growth, the Saward team is here to help.
Get in touch with us today - https://saward-me.com/#contact
#EventROI #ExhibitionStrategy #MarketingData #TradeShowTips
Data might not be the most exciting part of your event, but it’s one of the most critical.
Too often, event data slips under the radar.
It’s understandable given that there’s so much to think about - logistics, stand design, connecting with clients.
But if you’re not thinking about how your event performed, then how are you going to continue to create impactful events that leave a lasting impression in the future?
At Saward Marketing & Events, we help you put on a show that people will never forget.
And part of that process is looking beyond the show and reflecting on the details:
What worked?
What didn’t?
What happened after the show?
This kind of reflection is where the real opportunities are, and we’ll happily die on that hill.
It’s why we build data and post-event thinking into our process, because your ROI and ROO don`t end when the show does.
It’s these learnings that will make your next event even better.
So if you’re planning an exhibition and want support turning it into real business growth, the Saward team is here to help.
Get in touch with us today - https://saward-me.com/#contact
#EventROI #ExhibitionStrategy #MarketingData #TradeShowTips
As we head into the Thanksgiving weekend, we’d like to extend our sincere appreciation to our clients, colleagues and industry partners. Your continued support and collaboration make all the difference as we continue to deliver fantastic event experiences.
Wishing you a restful break and an enjoyable weekend ahead.
#Thanksgiving #EventsIndustry #BusinessCommunity #ProfessionalCuddle
As we head into the Thanksgiving weekend, we’d like to extend our sincere appreciation to our clients, colleagues and industry partners. Your continued support and collaboration make all the difference as we continue to deliver fantastic event experiences.
Wishing you a restful break and an enjoyable weekend ahead.
#Thanksgiving #EventsIndustry #BusinessCommunity #ProfessionalCuddle
The unsung heroes of events: parking, cleaning, and first impressions team
We talk a lot about the “wow” moments in events, the big stands, the keynote speakers, the light shows.
But sometimes, it’s the bits that go unnoticed that make all the difference.
For us, the real heroes are often the ones at the edges of the show floor.
The car park stewards out in the rain at 5am.
The cleaners quietly keeping everything spotless.
The front-of-house teams who greet every guest with a smile (even when they’ve been on their feet for 10 hours).
They’re the first people your attendees meet, and sometimes, the last ones they see.
That first handshake, wave or friendly hello does more to set the tone than anything else.
We’ve all been to an event that looked great inside, but ended with chaos in the car park or a painfully slow exit.
You don’t remember the lighting design then, do you? You remember the frustration.
We`ve always said events are built on a thousand tiny details, most of which nobody ever notices unless they go wrong.
But those little things shape how people feel, and that’s what they take away.
So here’s to the teams behind the scenes, the ones who keep it clean, safe, organised, and welcoming.
You make the magic happen, even if most people never realise it.
Who are the unsung heroes you’d like to shout out from your last event? Let’s give them the credit they deserve.
#EventProfsUK #EventManagement #EventExperience #EventIndustry
The unsung heroes of events: parking, cleaning, and first impressions team
We talk a lot about the “wow” moments in events, the big stands, the keynote speakers, the light shows.
But sometimes, it’s the bits that go unnoticed that make all the difference.
For us, the real heroes are often the ones at the edges of the show floor.
The car park stewards out in the rain at 5am.
The cleaners quietly keeping everything spotless.
The front-of-house teams who greet every guest with a smile (even when they’ve been on their feet for 10 hours).
They’re the first people your attendees meet, and sometimes, the last ones they see.
That first handshake, wave or friendly hello does more to set the tone than anything else.
We’ve all been to an event that looked great inside, but ended with chaos in the car park or a painfully slow exit.
You don’t remember the lighting design then, do you? You remember the frustration.
We`ve always said events are built on a thousand tiny details, most of which nobody ever notices unless they go wrong.
But those little things shape how people feel, and that’s what they take away.
So here’s to the teams behind the scenes, the ones who keep it clean, safe, organised, and welcoming.
You make the magic happen, even if most people never realise it.
Who are the unsung heroes you’d like to shout out from your last event? Let’s give them the credit they deserve.
#EventProfsUK #EventManagement #EventExperience #EventIndustry
Let’s talk about island stands for a minute. They look great. They make an impact. They can own a hall when done right. But here’s the catch:
They don’t work without the right people 👯
We’ve seen so many island stands that look incredible… and then sit empty because no one’s thought about how to staff them properly.
The more open space you have, the more proactive your team needs to be.
There’s nowhere to hide, no back wall to lean on, and no funnel to naturally draw people in.
Every direction is a front. Every visitor is a potential conversation.
So if you’re investing in an island stand, make sure you’re also investing in:
• Enough people to cover all angles and time slots.
• The right personalities! Proactive, confident, approachable.
• A clear plan for how you want to engage visitors from every side.
Otherwise, you risk creating a beautiful, expensive space that people admire from afar… but never actually step into.
At the end of the day, design attracts, but people convert.
If you’re unsure whether an island stand is the right fit for your brand or your team, drop us a message.
We can talk through what will actually work for your goals (and your budget).
#ExhibitionTips #EventStrategy #BrandExperience #EventProfsUK #ExhibitionDesign
Let’s talk about island stands for a minute. They look great. They make an impact. They can own a hall when done right. But here’s the catch:
They don’t work without the right people 👯
We’ve seen so many island stands that look incredible… and then sit empty because no one’s thought about how to staff them properly.
The more open space you have, the more proactive your team needs to be.
There’s nowhere to hide, no back wall to lean on, and no funnel to naturally draw people in.
Every direction is a front. Every visitor is a potential conversation.
So if you’re investing in an island stand, make sure you’re also investing in:
• Enough people to cover all angles and time slots.
• The right personalities! Proactive, confident, approachable.
• A clear plan for how you want to engage visitors from every side.
Otherwise, you risk creating a beautiful, expensive space that people admire from afar… but never actually step into.
At the end of the day, design attracts, but people convert.
If you’re unsure whether an island stand is the right fit for your brand or your team, drop us a message.
We can talk through what will actually work for your goals (and your budget).
#ExhibitionTips #EventStrategy #BrandExperience #EventProfsUK #ExhibitionDesign
What an incredible few days at @eventbuyerslive 🙌🏻
Our Managing Director, Jack Saward, represented Saward Marketing & Events, joining three days full of inspiration, energy, and brilliant people who make this industry what it is.
We’re proud that Jack was part of the #PinkClub again this year, a fantastic group of ambassadors helping others connect, collaborate, and celebrate the best of our industry. 💖
A huge thank you to everyone who made the event so special. He’s back in the office today and come away inspired, grateful, and proud to be part of such an amazing community. He also seems very tired!
Until next year, #EBL25 ✨
#EventsIndustry #ProfessionalCuddle #WeCreateExperiences #eventprofs
What an incredible few days at @eventbuyerslive 🙌🏻
Our Managing Director, Jack Saward, represented Saward Marketing & Events, joining three days full of inspiration, energy, and brilliant people who make this industry what it is.
We’re proud that Jack was part of the #PinkClub again this year, a fantastic group of ambassadors helping others connect, collaborate, and celebrate the best of our industry. 💖
A huge thank you to everyone who made the event so special. He’s back in the office today and come away inspired, grateful, and proud to be part of such an amazing community. He also seems very tired!
Until next year, #EBL25 ✨
#EventsIndustry #ProfessionalCuddle #WeCreateExperiences #eventprofs
Keywords: exhibition design, exhibition stand design, trade show stand, event marketing, B2B exhibitions, creative exhibitions, tech trade shows, UK events Short answer: Exhibition design is important because it determines whether […]
By Saward Marketing & Events Event marketing is one of the most powerful ways a brand can connect with its audience. It brings people into a shared space where messages […]
Author: Jack Saward Published: 22 July 2024 About the author: Helping people succeed through seamless events. Business owner and Co-Host of The Events Insight Podcast. In the world of sales, […]
