Imagine it’s the morning of the fun run that you and your team have worked tirelessly to organize.
Everything looks great; the start and finish line arches are in place, custom flag banners branded with your logo are prominently displayed on the race course, and safety and directional signs are ready to guide the participants along the route.
All that’s left is for the real action to begin with the participants arriving soon.
Sounds great, right? And you don’t have to be a seasoned event planner to make it a reality.
While it’s easy to get lost in the details and end up feeling overwhelmed when designing signage for outdoor events, as Charles Mingus said:
“Making the simple complicated is commonplace; making the complicated simple, awesomely simple, that's creativity.”
By keeping the signage simple yet creative, you can ensure that everyone enjoys the event and also allow yourself to fully engage in the fun. We’re just here to push you in the right direction.
You’ll learn how to:
- Make your designs jaw-dropping with color, graphics, and consistent branding
- Choose the right types of signage and banners for your fun run
- Make the whole process hassle-free by letting us handle the grunt work for you
How to Create Eye-Catching Displays With MVP Visuals
At the heart of every event is a core mission that has to be achieved.
Fun run banners needs to be eye-catching, easy to read, and make a lasting impression on everyone involved.
At MVP Visuals, we don’t leave anything to chance. We offer branding solutions that will take your signage to the next level.
To do that, keep these four tips in mind when designing your visuals:
1 - Keep It Simple and Easy to Read
“The more you say the less people remember. The fewer the words, the greater the profit.”
— Francois Fenelon
The atmosphere at fun runs is exciting and electrifying. Participants and spectators have limited time to comprehend long messages, so keep it simple and memorable.
- Consider using the Classic Banner Stand to display a playful font with a pun or rhyme that is likely to linger in people's minds. For example, “I’m not fast, but I’m furious,” or “Run like there’s a hot donut at the finish line.”
- Keep your messaging easily understood with short, meaningful sentences.
- To complement the Classic Banner Stand, use a Pop Out Banner that features interactive messaging like “High five for a boost.”
- Use simple images and symbols that communicate even at a glance, e.g., a cartoon image of a runner with a thought bubble saying, “Smile, you’re making history!”
Complex graphics and cluttered designs confuse and overwhelm viewers; a clean, minimalistic design approach works just fine.
Here is how you can go about it:
Download one of our free templates to create your own artwork layout. This allows you to easily incorporate your brand colors and imagery while ensuring your design is streamlined and uncluttered.
Fun Fact: The term "fun run" first appeared in the English language in the early 1970s as a way to encourage non-athletes to take part in organized races.
Next, focus on a limited color palette that aligns with your brand and use a playful font to add personality. For imagery, a simple image of a runner with a catchy phrase like "Run for a cause" in bold letters will do the trick.
Underneath the image, list only the most essential details, like the event date, time, and location.
By simplifying your design, you'll create a visually appealing and easy-to-read display that encourages participation while promoting your brand.
Once your design is complete, simply send us your file. We'll double-check and send you digital proof within 24 business hours.
“Huge props to MVP Visuals. Not only have they been great from the design and ordering perspective but excellent customer service. Can’t say enough good things!”
— Mitch Belisle, VP of Sales and Marketing, Trilogy Lacrosse
2 - Use Bold Colors and Eye-Catching Graphics
Simplicity doesn't mean boring when trying to make an impression. It means being intentional and strategic with your design choices.
Color has a significant impact on mood and emotions. Use vibrant and bold colors to add more excitement and energy to the event.
Contrasting colors in your signage allows it to stand out and communicate from a distance.
You can play around with these color combinations:
- Pink and yellow to evoke a sense of fun and energy
- Purple and green for a more subdued playful vibe
- Orange and blue to create a striking contrast
- Rainbow colors for a more inclusive and diverse atmosphere
Large and bold fonts can make your graphics pop and draw attention to your message. Opt for playful and comical fonts that are appropriate for a fun run.
For example:
- Comics Sans has a handwritten feel that makes it approachable and friendly.
- Chalkboard brings a sense of nostalgia by imitating the look of writing on a chalkboard.
- Kristen ITC has a childlike feel that’s perfect for a playful carefree vibe.
- Jokerman plays around with dots, spirals, and straight lines to stand out and grab attention.
Keep this in mind as well:
- Don’t clutter the graphics.
- Use bold colors and fonts.
- Use relevant images that add to the overall message of the run.
- Keep it simple, fun, and playful.
MVP Insight: We use the Pantone color-matching system in our production process to ensure a perfect match for your custom branded displays.
3 - Consider the Placement and Size of Your Fun Run Banners
As runners approach a steep incline, imagine the inspiration they’ll feel when they spot a 'Roll Like a Donut' Polyester Fabric Banner waving in the wind.
Don’t overlook the placement of your fun run banner
Placing large custom banners or inflatable archways in high-traffic areas such as the start and finish line creates a sense of anticipation and excitement.
To ensure that participants stay on track, use directional signs such as our 18 oz Double-sided Vinyl Banner with arrows pointing the way to keep the runners on track.
Safety should also be a top priority. You don’t want to place safety hazards that may block visibility for runners and other participants.
Remember that repetition reinforces your message. You can place the signage at multiple locations along the route for maximum visibility.
Ensure your signage is positioned at eye level and large enough to be seen from a distance.
4 - Ensure Consistent Branding Across All Signage
Consistent branding is crucial to making a lasting impression on your audience. Just like people associate Facebook with its iconic blue color, your brand should be recognized through its unique visual elements.
Our top-quality signage products can help you achieve this. We work closely with you to create a cohesive look that reflects your brand's values and goals.
Take, for example, our recent work with Girls on the Run—a non-profit organization.
We provided them with a branded pop-up tent and custom logo tablecloth in their signature pink and green colors. The cohesive design helped promote their mission of empowering young girls through health and fitness.
Our team of branding experts will guide you through the design process to ensure that your outdoor event signage is visually appealing and consistent with your messaging.
“The arch and the tent were a big hit at our events. Thank you, MVP for the help and the quick follow up on our order. Very much appreciated.”
— David Wikette, President, Ferrari Club of America - Ohio Chapter
Types of Signage for Fun Runs
A lot has to be communicated during outdoor events. Signage achieves this quickly and effectively.
Strategic planning is required so that runners stay motivated, sponsors get their message across, and social media buzz is generated.
Remember the signage placement we talked about earlier? Here they are:
1 - Start and Finish Line Banners
Start and finish line signage serves as a visual representation of the purpose of the fun run and provides valuable branding opportunities for sponsors.
When choosing a fun run banner, Custom Mesh Banners are an excellent option.
The polyester material makes them both sturdy and lightweight, while the mesh design allows wind to pass through, making them ideal for windy conditions.
These banners can be easily customized with sponsor logos and event branding to give your event a professional and polished look.
We offer a range of sizes to choose from, including two square sizes (96 inches square and 120 inches square), as well as rectangular sizes starting at 24 x 36 inches and going all the way up to 120 x 240 inches.
With our high-quality, single-side reverse printing, we can seamlessly print your logo, message, or brand image up to eight feet long. This ensures that your branding is clearly visible and stands out from the crowd.
2 - Mile Markers
Fun runs can be challenging, especially for beginners who may feel overwhelmed by the distance and effort required to complete the race.
Mile markers help the runners to pace themselves and break down the fun run into manageable segments.
Custom Feather Flags serve well as mile markers. They’re made from lightweight but durable nylon that is designed to be tear-resistant and can be reused for multiple events.
The included hardware and carrying case make the flags easy and quick to set up and take down.
Mile markers should be positioned every mile or kilometer at eye level for easy visibility. Even if you’re using double-sided Teardrop Feather Flags, we use a center liner to ensure the graphics are opaque and easy to read.
3 - Directional Signs
Fun runs are all about the experience, which can be easily ruined if participants get lost and miss out on the fun.
Directional signs keep runners on course and reduce potential safety hazards.
Two great options for directional signage at fun runs are the Fabric Tension Pop Up and the Retractable Roll Up Banner.
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The Fabric Tension Pop Up is an affordable way to create big visual impact without breaking your budget. Its high-quality stretch polyester fabric print slips easily over a lightweight aluminum frame, allowing for easy setup and takedown.
Plus, it's washable and wrinkle-free, which makes it convenient for repeated use.
On the other hand, the Retractable Roll Up Banner is an ideal choice for events on the move. Its lightweight aluminum and plastic frame makes it easy to transport between events, and it can be set up in seconds.
The banner itself can be customized with arrows, symbols, or images, making it clear and visible from a distance. When it's time to pack up, it rolls neatly into a carrying case for easy storage.
Whether you choose the Fabric Tension Pop Up or the Retractable Roll Up Banner, ensure the message is clear and visible from a distance.
4 - Sponsor and Partner Signage
Fun runs wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of partners and sponsors. Showcasing their logos and branding throughout the event demonstrates gratitude and recognizes their contribution in making the event a success.
The Custom Shape Feather Flag is also great when aiming to highlight sponsor logos in a unique and eye-catching way.
If you're looking for affordable options, our Economy Flying Feather Flag and Economy Teardrop Feather Flag are great choices that still make a big impact.
The table below shows the four types of advertising flags available at MVP Visuals.
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5 - Safety and Informational Signage & Banners
A thorough risk assessment should be conducted to identify potential hazards and develop strategies to mitigate them. This includes ensuring adequate medical support, a course design that minimizes the risk of collisions and falls, and experienced personnel to manage the event.
Safety signage keeps participants aware of potential hazards. You can have signs indicating the location of first aid stations and potential hazards along the race course such as steep hills, sharp turns, or uneven ground.
For example, a Rectangle Feather Flag that says “Caution: Slippery Surface,” can be placed near a wet or slick area to alert the runners of a potential safety danger.
Informational signage on the other hand is all things important: directions to parking areas, water stations, restrooms, and important event details.
If you have any inquiries, contact us at hello@mvpvisuals.com or call (800) 980-6871 and we will help you create a safe and successful event for everyone.
“There's service, then there is SERVICE! These folks are on top of it... and I mean at the top. Great communication & responsive services... you cannot go wrong here.”
— Robert E. Martin, Verified Buyer
Get Top-Quality Sustainable Signage for Your Fun Run With MVP Visuals
With over 15 years of experience in the industry, we have established ourselves as branding experts by continuously evolving and prioritizing our customers’ satisfaction.
We strive to understand your needs and personalize your experience through our wide range of customizable options.
Jolene Rader came to us with a unique vision: to create unforgettable play and adventure experiences for kids.
She founded Pilots and Places with the goal of diversifying children's exposure to culture and nurturing their love for travel.
As branding experts, we were thrilled to partner with Jolene to bring some of the world's most iconic landmarks to life in the playground.
Check out our initial sketch of the Taj Mahal, complete with fun and interactive features:
The result was breathtaking and Jolene was ecstatic.
“I absolutely love my inflatables. But more importantly, people who see them love it as everybody thinks that they are not only well-made replicas, but unique in their objective to bring education and play together.”
— Jolene Rader, Founder, Pilots and Places
Even for fun run banners & displays, we are an open-ended bunch. You tell us what you want and we make it possible.
Our custom event branding displays are designed to promote brand awareness and create a memorable experience for everyone. You can choose from a wide range of personalized options, including custom tents, inflatable arches, and custom inflatables.
Learn More: Buyers Guide: Best Selling Inflatable Arches for Fun Runs
Make Your Fun Run Stand Out With Effective Signage
At MVP Visuals, we are committed to exceeding your expectations and giving your event the extra spark it needs to be a success.
We give you visual branding solutions that bring your fun run to life and contribute to your event marketing success.
Here is how we demonstrate our commitment to exceptional service:
- Guaranteed on-time delivery for your event
- You get a dedicated support coordinator throughout the process
- Live help is always available to assist with your order
- Free layouts, samples, and no setup fees
- Attention to detail to ensure the printing and colors are perfect
- We have a team of experienced designers to help you create custom designs that align with your needs
“My gosh, everything was great from my responding to an email, to a quote for the size, to the great graphics, to the receipt of the poster today. Thanks for everything.”
— Mike Gilson Lafayette War Veterans, Inc.
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