By CHAMPS Show Magazine Staff
By Bernie Boulders
Using Color to Create an Enticing Atmosphere
By Kevin Dankman
ISSUE 62 | OCTOBER
ADVERTISER
ISSUE 62 | OCTOBER 2024
Writing
Bernie Boulders
CHAMPS Show Magazine Writers
Kevin Dankman
Photography
CHAMPS Show Magazine Staff
Dmill Photography
Design & Layout
Sixxx
Publisher
CHAMPS Trade Shows
Editorial Director
Kevin Dankman
Ad Sales
Kevin Dankman Becca
FLORIDA FUN Before and After the Show!
By CHAMPS Magazine Staff
Attending the CHAMPS Trade Show at the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, October 15-17th?
In Florida, the day can start early… The charters sometimes go off at 4 am and return by 11! Tee Times begin at 7:00 am sharp. So, if you are a real adventurer, you can get up and start the day with some fun and excitement. Then hit CHAMPS Trade Show for the best in last-minute deals for your shop's busy holiday season. Nothing like a workation where you can catch your dinner before breakfast!
On the way to the show, be sure to use the 17th Street entrance shown in the pictures; otherwise, you might get stuck in the port with all the cruisers! This is not going to be the USS CHAMPS Show @ Sea.
After a day of networking and learning, unwind with a vibrant array of evening activities right in the heart of Broward County. From exhilarating charter fishing adventures to pulsating nightlife, captivating art scenes, and more, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Here's your guide to making the most of your evenings in this dynamic area.
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FLORIDA FUN Before and After the Show!
1. Charter Fishing Adventures
Fort Lauderdale is renowned for its premier fishing opportunities, and what better way to relax after a busy day than casting a line into the sparkling waters of the Atlantic?
Deep-Sea Fishing Charters:
Embark on an unforgettable deep-sea fishing trip. Expert captains will guide you to the best fishing spots, where you can try your luck at catching marlin, tuna, mahi-mahi, and more. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice, these charters offer all the equipment and expertise you need for a successful outing.
Downtown Fort Lauderdale: Home to trendy rooftop bars and speakeasystyle lounges, downtown offers a sophisticated nightlife experience. Enjoy panoramic city views with your favorite beverage or discover unique
Cuban-Inspired Venues: Immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats of salsa and live Latin music at venues like Elbo Room and Blue Jean Blues, perfect for a night of dancing and fun.
3. Art and Cultural Experiences
For those who appreciate creativity and culture, Fort Lauderdale offers a rich tapestry of art and cultural attractions to explore in the evening.
Sunset Fishing Cruises: Experience the serene beauty of a Florida sunset while enjoying a leisurely fishing cruise. These trips often include refreshments and stunning views, making for a perfect evening escape.
2. Vibrant Nightlife
Fort Lauderdale boasts a lively nightlife scene that caters to all tastes, from chic lounges to energetic nightclubs.
Las Olas Boulevard: This iconic street is the epicenter of Fort Lauderdale’s nightlife. Explore a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants offering live music, craft cocktails, and a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away or enjoy a quiet drink with colleagues, Las Olas has it all.
NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale: Open late on select evenings, this museum features an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art. Enjoy special exhibitions, live performances, and engaging events that showcase local and international artists.
Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District: Stroll along the scenic Riverwalk and discover a variety of art galleries, theaters, and public art installations. The area often hosts outdoor concerts and cultural festivals, providing a vibrant backdrop for your evening.
Private Art Tours: Join a guided tour of Fort Lauderdale’s burgeoning art scene. Discover hidden murals, historic galleries, and meet local artists in an intimate setting.
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FLORIDA FUN
Before and After the Show!
4. Dining and Culinary Delights
No evening is complete without savoring the local cuisine. Fort Lauderdale’s dining scene is as diverse as its population, offering everything from fresh seafood to international flavors.
Waterfront Restaurants: Enjoy a meal with a view at one of the many waterfront restaurants along the Intracoastal Waterway. Fresh catches of the day, innovative dishes, and romantic settings make for a memorable dining experience.
Craft Breweries and Distilleries: Sample locally crafted beers and spirits at establishments like Funky Buddha Brewery or American Social. Many offer live music and food trucks, creating a lively and casual atmosphere.
Fine Dining: For a more upscale experience, dine at renowned restaurants such as Steak 954 or Casa D’Angelo, where gourmet cuisine meets elegant ambiance.
5. Relaxation and Scenic Beauty
estate during evening events. The tranquil environment is ideal for a peaceful end to your day.
Sunset Cruises: Glide through the Intracoastal Waterway on a sunset cruise. Enjoy breathtaking views, soothing breezes, and the vibrant colors of the sky as the day turns to night.
6.
Live Entertainment and Shows
From live music to theatrical performances, Fort Lauderdale’s entertainment scene is bustling with options.
If you prefer a more tranquil evening, Fort Lauderdale has plenty of options to help you unwind and soak in the natural beauty.
Beachfront Walks: Take a leisurely stroll along Fort Lauderdale Beach. The soft sands and gentle waves provide a perfect setting for reflection or a romantic evening.
Broward Center for the Performing Arts:
Catch a Broadway show, concert, or ballet performance at this premier venue. The state-of-the-art facilities ensure a captivating experience for all attendees.
Local Music Venues: Discover live performances at intimate venues like Culture Room or Blue Jean Blues. Enjoy everything from jazz and blues to rock and indie music.
Comedy Clubs: Laugh the night away at one of Fort Lauderdale’s comedy clubs, featuring local and touring comedians who guarantee a night of entertainment.
FLORIDA FUN Before and After the Show!
7. Unique Experiences
For those seeking something different, Fort Lauderdale offers a variety of unique evening activities.
Escape Rooms: Challenge yourself and your colleagues with an interactive escape room experience. Work together to solve puzzles and uncover mysteries within a set time.
Bowling and Arcade Bars: Combine classic bowling fun with modern arcade games and a lively bar scene. Venues like Xtreme Action Park offer a variety of activities to keep the energy high.
Glow-in-the-Dark Mini Golf: Enjoy a playful evening of mini-golf with a twist. The glow-in-the-dark courses provide a fun and visually stunning experience for all ages.
Conclusion
Fort Lauderdale’s vibrant evening scene near the Broward County Convention Center ensures that your nights are just as engaging and enjoyable as your days. Whether you’re casting a line under the stars, dancing to live music, exploring artistic treasures, or savoring delicious cuisine, there’s no shortage of activities to enrich your stay. Make the most of your trade show experience by diving into the diverse and dynamic offerings of this beautiful Florida destination.
Halloween Hype:
Embracing the Spooky Season in Your Smoke or Vape Shop
Halloween Hype: Embracing the Spooky Season in Your Smoke or Vape Shop
2. Meeting Customer Expectations
Customers expect businesses to get into the holiday spirit, and Halloween is no exception. Offering themed items, whether it's pumpkin-flavored vape juice, skull-shaped bongs, or costumes that resonate with the smoking and vaping community, can meet these seasonal expectations. It's also a chance to cater to the festive spirit of your customers, making your shop a part of their Halloween celebrations.
3. Tapping into the Seasonal Market
Halloween is a lucrative season, with consumers willing to spend on decorations, costumes, and themed merchandise. For smoke and vape shops, this presents an opportunity to introduce limited-time offers, special editions, and holiday bundles. These can attract not only regular customers but also those looking for unique, themed gifts or party essentials.
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Halloween Hype: Embracing the Spooky Season in Your Smoke or Vape Shop
4. Encouraging Impulse Buys
Halloween-themed products placed strategically around your store can encourage impulse purchases. Items like small, affordable accessories, themed lighters, or even temporary tattoos can catch the eye of shoppers and add an extra bit of revenue. These are particularly effective as add-ons at the checkout area.
5. Building Community and Loyalty
Hosting a Halloween event or costume contest can turn your shop into a community hub, fostering a sense of belonging among your customers. It's also an effective way to build customer loyalty and engage with your audience on social media. Sharing photos of your decorated shop, featuring customers' costumes, or highlighting special Halloween products can generate buzz and attract attention online.
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Halloween Hype: Embracing
the Spooky Season in Your Smoke or Vape Shop
Using Color to Create an Enticing Atmosphere
By Kevin Dankman
When it comes to running a smoke and vape shop, creating a visually enticing atmosphere is crucial for attracting customers and building brand identity. One of the easiest and most effective ways to achieve this is by strategically using color on the walls and exterior of your store. Colors have a profound psychological effect on people, influencing their mood, perception, and even purchasing decisions. By choosing the right colors, you can set the tone for a fun, inviting, and immersive shopping experience that highlights your unique selection of products.
1. Understanding Color Psychology
Colors play a significant role in how customers feel when they step into your store. Each hue can evoke different emotions, so it’s very important to consider the kind of experience you want to offer:
Bright Colors (Yellow, Orange, Red): These colors convey energy, excitement, and positivity. Using bright hues can make your store feel dynamic and fun, particularly if you want to appeal to younger, trend-conscious customers.
Cool Colors (Blue, Green, Purple): These shades evoke calmness, creativity, and relaxation, making them perfect for vape shops looking to create a laid-back, zen-like vibe.
Dark Colors (Black, Dark Gray, Navy): If you’re going for a modern, edgy, or luxurious feel, deep tones can add sophistication and mystery, emphasizing exclusivity in your product range.
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Using Color to Create an Enticing Atmosphere
2. The Importance of Brand Identity
Your choice of color should align with your brand’s identity. Are you a playful and trendy shop that focuses on affordable, fun products? A bright, vibrant palette might be the way to go. Alternatively, if your shop focuses on high-end, premium products, darker and more muted colors might better convey a sense of luxury and exclusivity.
For example, a shop with an alternative or counter-culture focus could blend bold primary colors with graffiti-style art to emphasize creativity and rebellion. On the other hand, a high-tech vape lounge might prefer sleek metallics and soft neon lights to create an ultra-modern atmosphere.
3. Using Color to Highlight Your Product Selection
Beyond the general atmosphere, color can be used to emphasize key areas of your store and draw attention to your product selection. Consider using accent walls to feature specific product lines, such as premium vape pens, e-juice flavors, or limited-edition items. Bold, contrasting colors or eye-catching designs can help visually direct customers to these featured products.
For instance:
Accent Colors: A bold neon green or electric blue wall behind your top-selling vape products can make that section stand out.
Lighting and Color Pairings: Combining the right lighting with your wall colors can elevate the experience further. LED lighting with soft color changes can add a dynamic feel, especially for sections where you want customers to spend more time browsing.
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Using Color to Create an Enticing Atmosphere
4. Exterior Color: Drawing in the Foot Traffic
Your shop’s exterior is the first impression you make on potential customers. To stand out from the competition and attract foot traffic, the outside of your building should be just as thoughtfully designed as the interior. Consider using eye-catching color schemes that reflect your brand but also draw the eyes of passersby.
Some exterior design ideas: Murals or Street Art: Custom murals that incorporate your brand colors can create a striking and memorable visual statement.
Bright Entrances: Use contrasting colors around doors and windows to create a bold entrance that invites customers inside.
Signage: Ensure your store’s signage pops by using high-contrast colors that are easily visible from the street. Neon lights or bold, playful fonts can add to the fun vibe.
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Using Color to Create an Enticing Atmosphere
5. Creating Instagrammable Moments
In today’s social media-driven world, creating Instagrammable spaces in your shop is an added bonus. A photo-worthy backdrop inside or outside your store encourages customers to snap pictures, tag your shop, and share their experience with their followers, giving your shop free exposure. A colorful mural, a creatively designed wall with your logo, or an LED-lit lounge area could be the perfect spots for customers to engage with your brand beyond just shopping.
6. Bringing It All Together
When designing the color scheme for your smoke and vape shop, it’s essential to strike a balance between your brand, customer experience, and product highlights. Keep in mind that every color choice—from the paint on the walls to the lighting — contributes to the overall vibe you want your store to convey.
By using colors strategically on your walls and exterior, you can not only create an exciting atmosphere but also invite customers to explore your selection, making your shop stand out as a destination that reflects your unique brand identity.
With the right blend of colors, your shop can transform into a dynamic, engaging space that keeps customers coming back, eager to explore what’s next!
