Trade shows have an overwhelming reputation for being a sea of tables, cloths and backdrops. In such an arena, how do you set yourself apart? When you're planning for your first trade show, you'll want to focus on being unique. From the design of your display to the interaction at the booth, you can make it memorable. Here's a look at three ideas to make your trade show booth one to remember:

Don't Blend In

The biggest investment you'll make when you start visiting trade shows is in your booth design. As you start to create an image of what you want from your booth, consider adding customized, permanent display fixtures and materials that will allow you to use every surface of the booth for displays, interactive information and more.

You'll want a booth that you can use for years, because that's the best way to get a solid return on the investment, and in order to do this, you'll need quality fixtures and materials. A trade show booth manufacturer or designer may be the best place to start for this.

While you're looking at durability and unique features, consider the versatility of a collapsible structure so that you can adjust its footprint based on the size of the booth that you're renting at each show.

Lead the Way in Giveaways

Let's face it – everybody comes to trade shows hoping to leave with something cool. And there's always that one booth that's got the goods. To really succeed in the trade show environment, you've got to be that booth. Work with your designer to integrate support structures and fixtures to hang giveaway items in prominent view. That way, you can catch the attention of attendees before they even get to your table.

You're not going to become "that booth" by giving away pens and mouse pads, though. You'll need to make sure that your trade show swag is as buzz-worthy as your product line. Sometimes, that means offering only one major item and then a lot of smaller, more affordable trinkets. A trade show booth designer can create a section of your booth to hold a compartment where attendees can enter a raffle or submit contest entries for a chance at the big prize. Ask for an email address on those entry forms and you've got yourself a ready-made marketing list after the show - all from the right design and development approach.

Trade shows can be a great way to get your company name and product line in front of hundreds or even thousands of potential customers. But, they have to remember who you are for that to matter. Follow the suggestions here and integrate memorable features into your trade show booth to set yourself apart.