Let’s make a plan…

I help creative small businesses thrive by developing tradeshow strategies that are not only profitable but also sustainable and enjoyable. With over ten years of experience, I’m focused on services that meet the unique needs and budgets of a small business. Whether you’re looking to enhance the profitability and efficiency of your current tradeshows or you’re venturing into your first one, I can make the process manageable and cost-effective, and dare I say… fun?!

Meet Sam

Sam Thompson is an entrepreneurial spirit with a passion for the intricate details that define small, handmade businesses. As the founder of Standard Wax, a candle company that began purely by accident and thrived for over a decade, Sam understands firsthand the challenges of wearing all the hats in a small business. Inspired by the support from experienced peers in the early stages, Sam has made it her mission to pay it forward, offering mentorship and consulting to new and growing brands.

With a keen eye for the little details that can make a significant impact, Sam believes in sharing knowledge and resources that drive success. Whether it’s a well-crafted spreadsheet, a valuable contact, or a trusted resource, Sam’s decade-long experience in running tradeshow programs is a treasure trove for small businesses.

Small, handmade businesses often find the world of tradeshows daunting, with its unique lingo, processes, and costs. Sam’s expertise demystifies this world, providing comprehensive guidance through registration, planning, shipping, booth design, travel, expense planning, and revenue projections. By focusing on the specific needs and budgets of small brands, Sam ensures that tradeshows are not only profitable and sustainable but also enjoyable.

A self-proclaimed data enthusiast, Sam lets the numbers speak. By aligning clients’ end goals with the right tradeshows, Sam uses data-driven strategies to assess costs and revenue expectations, helping clients make informed decisions. This meticulous approach has reduced travel expenses by 60% and shipping and logistics expenses by 45%, resulting in happier sales reps and better relationships with show runners.

Sam also has a background in travel planning, so every detail from flights to hotels, is optimized for an exceptional tradeshow experience.

Clients working with Sam often overcome misconceptions about tradeshows being too complex or risky. With tailored data and projections, Sam simplifies the process, making tradeshows accessible and beneficial for small businesses.

Driven by the success of her own business, Sam is dedicated to seeing other small businesses thrive. In a world where big corporations dominate, Sam champions the unique vibe of small businesses, ensuring they continue to flourish and bring their special charm to the market.