The time it takes to design a trade show exhibit can vary dramatically. The larger and more custom the exhibit, the longer it may take. Designs can sometimes be as quick as a few days or a week, however typically the design of trade show displays include other services such as communication with the trade show venue, graphic production or fabrication. Usually for a small exhibit you will want to start planning your design 2-3 months in advance of your show date, and for a large exhibit, 4-7 months in advance.