Exhibitor Information

Welcome, exhibitors! This page is your go-to resource for everything you need to know to prepare for a successful Hickory Wedding Expo.

 

Below, you’ll find key details on move-in and check-in, booth amenities, show day schedules, and special opportunities designed to help you connect, collaborate, and stand out during the event.

 

We recommend reviewing each section in advance and bookmarking this page for easy reference as show day approaches.

 

Our goal is to make your experience smooth, organized, and rewarding—so you can focus on what matters most: showcasing your business and building meaningful connections.

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Make the Most of the Show

Prize Giveaway

Grand Finale Prize Giveaways

Following the fashion show, we’ll host prize giveaways. All exhibitors are welcome to contribute prizes. These will be collected at check-in. Prizes valued at $50 or more include an optional on-stage highlight and photo opportunity with the winner. To participate, fill out our Vendor Promo Form.

WX Panel (2)

Be part of our Panel Discussion and Q&A

Organizers will host a panel discussion broken into 10-minute topic segments (venues, florals, catering, etc.). Interested in participating? Send us a message and we'll solidify your time slot.

Networking

Exhibitor Networking Event

On Saturday, from 11 am - 12 pm, we are hosting a networking event in the stage area. This is a great chance to meet fellow exhibitors and build your network. Refreshments will be served.

Wedding Directory

Additional Promotion on Social Media -PLUS- be part of our Online Directory

Be sure to fill out our vendor promotions form if you haven't already so that we can promote your business on social media. When the show is over, you'll also benefit from the online directory of services we will create on the website. It will be a resource guide for future brides.

Move-In & Check-In

9:00 am – 10:00 am Thursday, January 8th –  For those who have trailers, vehicles, or carriages ONLY.  These items must be in the building prior to the rest of setup taking place.  

 

9:00 AM–7:00 PM Friday, January 9th Exhibitor move-in will take place for all others.

 

Please refer to the event map for the check-in location upon arrival.  You will also see signs directing you to rear entrance of the building.

Location: 
Hickory Metro Convention Center
1960 13th Ave Dr SE
Hickory, NC 28602

The following will occur at check-in:

Exhibitor badges.  You will be able to pick up badges for your whole team.
– Amenities – if you pre-ordered these items, they will already be in your booth.  If not, you will be able to rent items at this time.  We will also accept payments for the pre-orders.
– Prize Giveaways – If you are participating, turn your prize in at this time.  Be sure to include your business card.
– Sign Hooks to hang any banners in your booth.
– WiFi Password

Booth Amenities

Each booth includes:

  • 8′ Back Drape
  • 3′ Side Drapes (optional for endcaps)
  • Wi-Fi access
  • Electrical power (one outlet)


If you’d like to streamline setup, you may pre-order tables and chairs to be set up in your booth prior to move-in. Amenity rentals can be paid for at check-in.  We can accept cash, checks, or credit cards.

Rental pricing:

  • Chairs: $5 each

  • 6’ Table (no cover): $15 each

  • 6’ Table with cover (black, red, or blue): $25 each

Show Day Schedule - January 10, 2026

10:00 am – Doors Open for Exhibitors
11:00 am – 12:00 pm – Networking Event for Exhibitors
12:00 pm – Show opens to Attendees
2:30 pm – 3:30 pm Panel discussions (there will also be various presentations throughout the day)
4:30 pm – Fashion Show
5:00 pm – Prize Giveaways and Grand Finale
6:00 pm – Show Ends
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm – Move-out and Breakdown

Rules - Guidelines - FAQ

Parking

During the show, we ask that you and your booth staff park at the rear of the building or in the Blue lot shown on the map.  We would like to reserve as much of the front parking lot for attendees as possible.

Booth Decoration Guidelines

Please observe the following:
– No glitter or confetti
– The only item to be hung from the pipe and drape in your booth is a banner.  We have sign hooks available at the check-in table.
– Do not hang, pin, tape, or attach anything to the drape in your booth.
– No tape or any other adhesive shall be used on any wall in the convention center.

Other Guidelines

– No early teardown.  
– No open flames.  Exception: sternos may be used for chafing dishes, but there must be a fire extinguisher in the booth.  Gas sources such as propane or butane are not allowed.

FAQ

What do booths look like?

Check out our video to see how booths are set up.

How many Exhibitor Badges can I have?

We don’t have a set number of exhibitor badges per booth.  We simply ask that exhibitors be reasonable and pick up only the number of badges for the people who will be working in your booth.

Will there be food/concessions available at the show?

Due to the fact that this is a short one-day show, there will not be concessions, though drinks will be available and there are vending machines for snacks.

Where Can I See the Floor Plan?

Here is a link to the floorplan: https://hickoryweddingexpo26.expofp.com/

My booth only contains a few items. Can I just set up on Saturday?

Yes, we will allow that.  Please inform us ahead of time.  Note the following:
1. The garage door will not be opened on Saturday.  Any items will need to be moved through the regular doors at the rear of the building.
2. You may arrive starting at 10 am.
3. Booth must be completely set up by 11 am.