446 | How To Have a Successful First Wholesale Trade Show with Karen Sawyer-Meehan, Pier Six Press

Today's episode is a really practical conversation for anyone that is preparing for wholesale trade shows, especially if you're newer to exhibiting or you're trying to decide whether trade shows are the right next step for your business. I'm joined by Karen Sawyer-Meehan of Pier Six Press.

She is a longtime Proof to Product client, a seasoned trade show exhibitor, and also one of the co-chairs of the Noted trade show which is done through the Greeting Card Association.

In this episode, we're talking about what actually makes a booth stand out on the show floor, why product cohesion matters more than having a huge product line, how buyers are making snap decisions as they walk the aisles of a trade show, and why your trade show booth needs to communicate your brand point of view within seconds.

We also talk about booth setup, product placement, trade show etiquette, and how to make the most of those in person conversations without feeling like you're coming across as pushy or awkward. We also talk about how having a positive mindset when exhibiting at trade shows is absolutely critical.

There's a lot of tactical advice here packed into this episode, but also a lot of perspective around what it takes to build wholesale relationships over time and how trade shows are just one step in that journey.

It's an optional step, but it is one step that a lot of folks are taking and seeing success from.

Whether you're actively preparing for a show right now or starting to think about whether wholesale trade shows are for your future, I think you're going to get a lot from this conversation with Karen.

Today's episode is brought to you by our Is Wholesale Right for You private podcast! This free 12-part audio series will help you decide whether wholesale is a good next step for your specific business. After listening to this audio series (in less than an hour), two things will be true. You'll know whether you want to pursue wholesale for your product business, and you'll have the confidence and action steps to get started with wholesale. Sign up for the private podcast today!

MEET KAREN

Karen Sawyer is the founder of Pier Six Press, a stationery and gift brand known for its bold design, vibrant color, and high-quality craftsmanship. Drawing on her background in printmaking, illustration, and over 20 years in retail, she created Pier Six Press to produce lively, joyful paper goods and gifts that bring people closer.

The studio specializes in letterpress and risograph printing, pairing time-honored techniques with modern aesthetics. Her work is inspired by the chaos of everyday life, a signature love of neon, and a belief that great design uplifts.

Based in the soggy Pacific Northwest, Pier Six Press reflects her passion for community, craftsmanship, and sustainability. With a hands-on approach to every detail, Karen continues to grow Pier Six Press into a brand that celebrates independent retail and the enduring art of printmaking.

CONNECT WITH KAREN

WEBSITE: https://piersixpress.com | INSTAGRAM: @piersixpress | FACEBOOK: @piersixpress

Connect with Katie Hunt

Katie Hunt is a business strategist, podcaster, mentor and mama to four. She helps product based businesses build profitable, sustainable companies through her conferences, courses and coaching programs.

Website: prooftoproduct.com | Instagram: @prooftoproduct