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What is a Step and Repeat Banner? and Why are they so popular?
Step and Repeat banners are backdrops with a graphic or logo taking a staggered step in a repeated manner.
The term “Step and Repeat” comes from the design pattern and the red carpet process of movie stars stepping for a photo and repeating that process across the display.
Key Takeaways
Step and Repeat banners are backdrops designed with repetitive logos or graphics, boosting the brand impact at events.
They are an easy option for event planners due to their low price and simple design.
Their popularity comes from their dual function as a photo backdrop and a branding tool, giving them a vital role in event planning
Why choose a step and repeat?
You might not realize it, but Step and Repeats are everywhere. Just search up any actor and most likely, one of their red carpet moments will be in front of a Step and Repeat.
They allow for easy branding, without a sales team. Just look at the way these brands are getting priceless visibility through one red carpet photo.
Though these banners were initially used at high profile events, today, you can spot these at nonprofit events, corporate events and more.
What makes them different than other displays?
What really sets step-and-repeats apart from other display types is how versatile and cost-effective they are. While larger booth walls or modular structures are typically built for trade show floors, step-and-repeats work across a wide range of events—press moments, photo ops, client mixers, corporate meetings, and even internal celebrations. They deliver a polished branded look without requiring the space, setup time, or investment of a full display.
They also tend to be more affordable and more reusable than other backdrop formats. Most systems break down into compact hardware and a swappable graphic, so you can update the design without replacing the entire unit. For teams that attend multiple events a year—or need branding that can move easily between locations—step-and-repeats offer a lower-cost, high-visibility option that’s easy to repurpose again and again.
Where to use them
These customizable displays are a perfect fit for just about any event and can be used from branding to photo ops! Some popular events you'll find these displays at include:
How to Create the Best
While it might seem simple to design Step and Repeats, there are a few common mistakes you must be sure to avoid. Never designed a large format print? Check out this complete guide or watch our video here!
Common Mistakes:
- 1. Low-resolution images: Using low-resolution images will result in a blurry and pixelated photo. Always use high-resolution files, ideally vector graphics, at 300 DPI.
- 2. Poor color choices: Using colors that are too similar or poorly contrasted can make logos and messaging hard to read.
- 3. Improper spacing: Placing logos too close together can make them appear to blend together, but placing them too far leaves blank areas. Leave enough space for each logo to be distinct, but keep them close enough to form a pattern.
- 4. Too many elements: Crowding the background with too many graphics, logos or messages can make it look cluttered. A simple design is more visually appealing.
Tips:
- 1. Test Print: Request a proof before final production and test the design by superimposing a figure or viewing it from a distance to confirm visibility and balance.
- 2. Leave safe zones: Include appropriate margins or "bleed" lines in your design files, keeping important elements away from the edges where they might be cut off or obscured by pole pockets/hems. At Ace Displays, all of our design templates include accurate markers to help you know exactly where it’s safe to design!
- 3. Set the ambiance clearly: The overall tone, theme, and colors of the banner should align with the event's ambiance. Grand opening or casual party? Aim for brighter colors. Gala or nice event? Choose dark, professional tones.
- 4. Choose the right size: The size should accommodate the expected number of people in photos and the venue space. The standard 8ft wide banner is versatile for small groups, while 20ft or larger is better for big groups or media walls.
Our step and Repeats at Ace Displays
Be sure to choose the right display the first time. At Ace Displays, we’re here to help. If you are looking for a Step and Repeat for your next event, check out our Step and Repeat collection!
We want to provide you with the best options in the industry. From adjustable to fixed-size displays, we’ve got you covered no matter your budget! Working with a small budget? Our Value-Pro line includes an Adjustable Backdrop Stand that is perfect for any event and is very budget friendly.
No matter what display you choose, we’re here to help! Contact us today if you have any questions.
About Ace Displays
In 2006, Ace Displays was founded in Southern California with the desire to provide quality products at competitive prices with the fastest delivery times in the industry. We believe purchasing an event display and its accessories should be an easy and exciting experience. Leveraging our short lead times to differentiate ourselves, we exist to connect people by providing event solutions that create conversations and lasting impressions.
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide the best event & trade show displays at budget-friendly prices with unparalleled service to ensure we exceed our clients expectations and to foster an environment our employees are proud to work in.
The Ace Method
We are excited to work with you - from meeting your budget to meeting your deadlines - we will help you create a display that looks great and asserts your presence. To aid in what can be a rather laborious process, Ace has developed a 6-step method to get you a display quickly and easily so you can focus your time on other areas of your business and upcoming events.