Showing up to industry expos is one of the smartest moves a creator can make. If it’s your first time going and the idea makes your stomach flip a little, don’t worry. Preshow jitters are perfectly normal. But if you’re serious about building real momentum, throw those doubts and worries out the window and pack your bags.
Even for creators who are super introverted off-cam, expos can be a real game changer. You won’t need to venture far outside your comfort zone to have a positive and productive experience. With the right planning and intentions, expos can be an incredible opportunity to expand upon your professional goals, find fellow creators for collabs, meet your fans and form enduring connections within the industry.
With the right planning and intentions, expos can be an incredible opportunity to expand upon your professional goals, find fellow creators for collabs, meet fans and form enduring connections.
The Power of Community
People underestimate just how kind folks in the industry are. It may sound cheesy or sappy, but it’s a fact. The first time I went to an expo, I couldn’t believe how welcoming everyone was. Any feelings of self-consciousness or nerves melted instantly when I looked around and realized I was finally somewhere with people who “get it.”
Even though I am fortunate enough to have family and friends who are supportive of my work, every time I go to an expo, it’s still a breath of fresh air. It’s a relief to know you are not alone and it’s a genuine pleasure to be around people who know exactly where you’re coming from in our particular line of work.
Besides, everyone at an expo is more or less in the same boat, so there’s no judgment. For two to three days, you are free to express yourself and revel in the fact that you’re among kindred spirits. You meet people whom you’d never have thought you’d click with — but you do. I’ve met some of my closest friends that way.
This was especially true when I linked up with the Chaturbate booth. Their emphasis on building a strong creator community has really changed my perspective on expos. The Chaturbate booth is always comfortable and stocked with food and drinks. They have their own security and everyone is warm and supportive. They spoil us with a community dinner after the expo too, so you get to dress up and enjoy a night out to socialize with your friends before you all fly out the next day.
Insider Moves
Another important and strategic reason to attend expos is what I call “unofficial insights.” Everyone always talks about networking, and that’s certainly important, but what people don’t always realize is that expos can also be a prime source of useful information and tips — before they become public knowledge.
For instance, let’s say Company X is planning to roll out a new platform feature. They might not be quite ready to blast out a press release yet, but staff at an expo booth might dish some details off the record, or even float new ideas and ask for creator feedback.
This “unofficial” approach can translate to more official opportunities down the line. Sharing my input on the spot and expressing immediate interest in potential opportunities has helped me build rapport and open doors. Plus, helping a company get to know you can increase your brand visibility on that platform. It’s a win-win.
Work It!
Someone recently asked me, “What exactly do you do at an expo?” My answer: “Whatever you want!”
I stand by that. You can eat pizza in your lingerie, stream live from the show floor, greet fans, sign autographs and merch — the sky’s the limit. The point is, you set the pace and your comfort level.
If you haven’t yet attended an expo, you might not be aware that livestreams from expo floors are very popular. Fans love seeing you out in public, and streaming at the booth is also a great way to feel a bit more “business as usual” amidst the lively chaos. Some platforms have special hashtags for expo events to help fans find creators who are live at shows. Just like in your own cam room, you are in the driver’s seat. For instance, at a recent show where nudity was allowed, I directed my engagement more toward the fans online who tipped me, rather than just giving a free show to a crowd of people recording me.
That being said, there are definitely fans at expos who will give you sizable cash tips. Plenty of creators will share stories about the sudden, surprising generosity of superfans whom they met in person — like the fan who handed me two solid gold coins. The Chaturbate booth has seen everything from flowers and cakes to diamond earrings gifted to broadcasters working the show floor.
Which Expos Should You Attend?
I actually went to my first expo because I knew a friend of mine would be there. If I know at least one person at a show, it instantly puts me more at ease and helps me to get excited. I know I’m going to have fun catching up with that friend and we’ll be meeting other people together too. And yes, even if you’ve only ever chatted online with your model friend, that still counts as knowing someone.
I also listen to my fans. If several fans in my chat express interest in a particular show and ask if I’m going, I definitely give it some consideration. Plus, other creators can advise you on where they have encountered the most generous tippers.
Obviously, travel costs can add up. Some events will cost more to attend than others. Take the time to research the event in advance, as well as the travel and hotel options, as it can really help you save and reduce stress. However, don’t let logistics or cost intimidate you. Expos are an investment in your career. You might even be able to write off some of your travel costs on your taxes.
Getting the Most Out of Your Expo Experience
Being prepared and staying mindful will go a long way toward helping you maximize your time at the show. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Plan your outfits for each day. You can really have fun and get super creative with your wardrobe.
- Send your photos ahead of time to the organizers and promote your attendance across your own social platforms to take advantage of additional exposure. This helps build hype and gives fans more incentive to show up.
- Make a packing checklist — and double-check it. Once, when I was in a rush, I accidentally packed mismatched shoes. You want to stand out on the show floor, but probably not in that way! You also don’t want to forget vital tech like charging cords, headphones, etc.
- Feeling good and confident in your skin is everything, so prioritize all those beauty and self-care rituals — but don’t go overboard with a super-intense dermal peel or laser facial right before an event.
- Once you’re there, pace yourself. Take frequent breaks to hydrate, eat and recharge. Expos are a marathon of activity, so you have to treat your mind and body right. When you don’t feel like getting up close with the crowd, just stay behind the booth table or retreat to a quieter space nearby.
Just be open to the experience and go with the flow. Be spontaneous. Be present in the moment. Make an effort with the people you meet. Say hi, and text them back. Time always goes by too fast, so if you do nothing else, remember to enjoy yourself.
Finally, when you get home, take some time to decompress. I used to feel guilty for not “hitting the ground running,” but coming down from a long weekend of intense crowds, camaraderie and creativity is no small thing. Savor the memories. Sleep in. FaceTime your friends.
Then, when you’re ready, keep on slaying so you can do it all over again in another city. Even if you can only make it to one or two expos a year, that’s still going to make a massive difference in the way you see yourself and your work.
FrenchAva is a French-American broadcaster and content creator based in sunny Miami. On cam or off, she loves singing, dancing and traveling. Follow her on Chaturbate and X.
