15 Creative Ways to Use Custom Notepads at Events and Trade Shows

Custom notepads are a versatile and cost-effective way for businesses to boost visibility at events through practical, branded stationery. From capturing leads and providing schedules to enhancing sustainability and staff presentation, they offer lasting impact across a wide range of event strategies.

Printed personalised notebooks remain one of the most effective and practical promotional tools available. They are affordable, highly visible, and offer long-lasting brand exposure well beyond the event. In a world dominated by digital tools and apps, you might wonder if printed notepads still have a place at events and trade shows. The answer is yes. This article explores 15 impactful ways to use custom notepads to attract attention, encourage interaction, and make a memorable impression on your audience.

1. Capture Leads with Branded Notepads

  • Print QR codes linking to landing pages or sign-up forms.
  • Include perforated tear-off sections for attendees to provide contact details.
  • Encourage participation in surveys or competitions printed directly on the pages.

2. Enhance Workshops with Pre-Filled Notepads

  • Add session outlines, speaker bios, or discussion points.
  • Provide space for personal notes and questions.
  • Help attendees stay organised and engaged.

Products like wirobound notepads and glued notepads are particularly useful here, depending on the format and audience.

3. Promote Sustainability with Eco-Friendly Pads

  • Use recycled paper and vegetable-based inks.
  • Include a short note on your brand’s environmental values.
  • Appeal to eco-conscious attendees.

If you’re looking to align with eco goals, explore our express products range for fast-turnaround sustainable printing options.

Eco-friendly custom notepad made from recycled paper

4. Offer Personalised Notepads for VIPs and Speakers

  • Include names, company roles, or custom messages.
  • Add a personal touch that shows appreciation.
  • Create a practical and memorable gift.

Consider offering specific notepads tailored to VIPs, speakers, or high-value attendees to increase retention.

5. Add Gamification Elements to Boost Engagement

  • Feature branded puzzles, bingo sheets, or scavenger hunt tasks.
  • Include spaces for collecting stamps or stickers at different stands.
  • Drive footfall and increase interaction.

6. Encourage Creativity with Sketch-Friendly Notepads

  • Provide blank or grid pages for drawing and brainstorming.
  • Appeal to designers, marketers, and creative thinkers.
  • Display selected sketches to create buzz around your booth.

corporate event pointing at notepad scaled

7. Gather Insights with Feedback-Focused Notepads

  • Include prompts like “What did you enjoy most today?”
  • Provide space for comments, suggestions, or ratings.
  • Use detachable pages to make feedback collection simple.

Using formats like DL custom notebooks makes these compact and easy to distribute in feedback zones.

8. Share Branding Space with Event Partners

  • Feature logos or messages from sponsors alongside your own.
  • Reduce costs while broadening exposure.
  • Maintain a clear visual hierarchy to preserve brand identity.

9. Provide Pocket-Sized Notepads for Convenience

  • Choose compact formats that fit into bags or pockets.
  • Ideal for fast-paced events with lots of movement.
  • Increases the chance of repeated use.

A6 custom notebooks are the perfect size for giveaways and on-the-go note-taking.

10. Combine Notepads with Event Schedules

  • Print agendas, maps, and session times inside the pad.
  • Help attendees plan their day without checking devices.
  • Keep your brand in view from morning to evening.

11. Add Custom Notepads to Swag Bags

  • Include branded notepads in attendee welcome packs.
  • Pair with pens for a professional and practical giveaway.
  • Useful items are more likely to be kept and used again.

A5 custom notebooks are an ideal mid-size option for inclusion in swag bags.

12. Equip Your Team with Branded Notepads

  • Print key messages, FAQs, or product features.
  • Help staff stay consistent when speaking to visitors.
  • Demonstrate professionalism and preparation.

13. Print Multilingual Versions for International Events

  • Offer bilingual or multilingual designs.
  • Support inclusivity and ensure understanding.
  • Useful for trade shows that attract global participants.

14. Add Industry Tips and Trivia for Extra Value

  • Include productivity hacks, quick facts, or quotes on each page.
  • Make the notepad a talking point and reference tool.
  • Encourage attendees to use the pad beyond the event.

Need help deciding whether printed notepads are right for your event? Learn more.

15. Reinforce Your Message with Post-Event Details

  • Use the back cover to share contact information and follow-up links.
  • Include QR codes for downloading slides, photos, or materials.
  • Keep your brand in the hands of attendees after the show.

For more practical applications, A4 custom notebooks offer ample space for post-event content.

Conclusion: Make Custom Notepads Work for Your Brand

Custom notepads offer much more than blank pages. When designed with purpose and creativity, they become a valuable marketing asset. Whether you are looking to capture leads, share useful content, or support your team, printed notepads can make a lasting impression.

Call to Action: Planning your next trade show or corporate event? Think about how custom notepads can help you connect with attendees, strengthen your message, and remain front of mind. Choose a design that reflects your brand and aligns with your event goals. Survey: 67% of Small Businesses Use Custom Notepads for Brand Recall


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