The Culture is Couture Expo

Vendor Application

Event Date: Saturday, October 4, 2025
Event Time: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Location: Greater Richmond Convention Center, Richmond, VA
Load-In: Begins as early as 8:00 AM

Event Overview

The Culture Is Couture Expo is a celebration of Black fashion, beauty, and culture, drawing over 1,000 attendees from Richmond and across the Mid‑Atlantic. Vendors will have the opportunity to connect with a style-conscious audience, gain brand exposure, and be part of an unforgettable cultural experience.

Booth & Fee Information

  • Booth Size: All booths are 10′ × 10′ only.

  • Included with Booth: One (1) table, two (2) chairs, and two (2) employee passes per booth.

  • Standard Booth: $200

  • Premium Booth (near entry): $300, individual promotion on web & social

  • Electricity Add-On: +$60 (must be requested in advance)

  • Additional Staff Passes: +$40 per person over the included two

  • Food Vendors: Not allowed.

  • Helium Balloons: Not allowed.

  • By submitting this application, the applicant acknowledges and agrees to the following:

    1. All information submitted is accurate and complete to the best of the applicant’s knowledge.

    2. Submission of an application does not guarantee acceptance into The Culture Is Couture Expo.

    3. If accepted, vendors must submit within 5 business days of approval:

      • A valid Certificate of Insurance listing The Culture Is Couture Expo and Mostly Sugar Media as the certificate holders.

      • A current Business License.

      • A signed The Culture Is Couture Vendor Agreement.

    4. Vendor fees are non-refundable once approved. Vendor fee and signed Vendor Agreement must be submitted within 48 hours of approval to secure space.

    5. Vendors are responsible for managing their own booth setup, breakdown, and staffing.

    6. Booths must remain open and fully staffed for the entire event (11:00 AM – 6:00 PM).

    7. Check-in is required with the Vendor Coordinator before setup. Final booth assignments will be provided via email prior to the event.

    8. Load-in, setup, and breakdown times will be strictly enforced:

      • Load-in begins as early as 8:00 AM.

      • Breakdown must be completed within 90 minutes of event end time (by 7:30 PM).

      • Vendors who fail to meet timing requirements may lose their space and/or be restricted from future participation.

    9. All tables must be covered or skirted with cloth material to maintain a clean and professional appearance.

    10. Vendors are responsible for collecting and remitting sales tax in accordance with all City of Richmond and Commonwealth of Virginia regulations.

    11. This is a rain or shine event. No refunds will be issued due to inclement weather or other uncontrollable conditions.

    12. Prohibited Items/Sales:

      • Food and beverage sales or sampling (including alcohol) are not permitted.

      • Helium balloons are not permitted.

      • Cannabis sales or sampling are prohibited.

    13. Electricity, Wi-Fi, and parking are not included unless purchased or arranged in advance.

    14. No products bearing the name or likeness of The Culture Is Couture Expo or Mostly Sugar Media may be sold without prior written permission from the event organizers.

    15. Vendors must comply with all policies and regulations set forth by The Culture Is Couture Expo, Mostly Sugar Media, the City of Richmond, the Greater Richmond Convention Center, and the Commonwealth of Virginia.

    16. Security will be present during the event; however, The Culture Is Couture Expo and Mostly Sugar Media are not responsible for any lost, stolen, or damaged items. Vendors participate at their own risk.

    17. The Culture Is Couture Expo reserves the right to decline any vendor whose business or products do not align with the mission, values, or goals of the event.