Events, Expos & Toy Fairs: What to Know Before You Set Up Shop
- Ashlin Hadden
- May 7
- 4 min read
Updated: May 8
(A Must-Read for Sex Toy Brands, Adult Novelty Retailers & Pleasure Product Exhibitors)
If you're gearing up to exhibit your brand at an adult novelty trade show, pleasure product expo, or sex toy fair, first of all, congrats! These events are where connections happen, orders are placed, and brands explode (in a good way).
But before you glam up your booth and pack your best-sellers, let's talk about what really protects your business at these events: event insurance and product liability. Whether you're selling your full product line or just handing out free samples, you're still exposed to risk, and yes, you can be held legally liable even for that little bottle of lube you gave away for promo.
One slip, one unexpected reaction, or one overly strict venue coordinator can turn your big moment into a costly disaster.
That's why in this guide, we're breaking down exactly what sexual wellness business owners need to know to show up boldly, sell out safely, and protect their business at every stage of the event.
If you're exhibiting at shows like STIMULATE, AVN, AMNE, ASD, EXX, or even a local fair, having the right event insurance coverage is more than a checklist item, it's your legal and financial safety net.
You're not just bringing vibrators and lube. You're showcasing your brand in a live environment, surrounded by crowds, tech, electricals, and expensive booths. Sex toy businesses face unique liability challenges that traditional event vendors don't.
Common expo risks include:
Product sampling injuries (a must for product liability insurance).
Theft of inventory while in transit or during the event.
Booth setup damage to venue property.
Unapproved adult content resulting in penalties or removal.
What Types of Insurance Coverage Do You Actually Need?
Let's break it down. These are the essential insurance coverages for sexual wellness business vendors and adult novelty exhibitors.
General Liability Insurance for Adult Novelty Vendors
Most venues require this. It covers physical injury and property damage claims made against you during the event. it's often required to issue a Certificate of Insurance (COI) with the venue listed as additional insured.
Product Liability Insurance for Sexual Wellness Brands
If someone reacts badly to your lube sample or claims your toy malfunctioned, this is the coverage that protects you. If you hand out anything designed for bodily use, this is essential.
Inland Marine (aka Booth & Inventory Protection)
No, it has nothing to do with boats. Inland marine covers inventory in transit, custom booth equipment, lighting, tech, and signage from theft, damage, or destruction.
Cyber Liability Insurance (Option, but Smart)
If you collect emails, scan credit cards, or accept digital payments at your booth, cyber coverage can protect you from hacks, breaches, or data exposure.
What to Check Before You Exhibit at a Sex Toy Fair or Expo
Not all venues and expos are pleasure-positive. Some allow adult vendors but quietly bury clauses that restrict what you can show, sell, or demo. Avoid surprises with this checklist:
Check for "adult product exclusions" in the venue contract.
If your business is described as "risqué," "explicit," or "adult-themed," ask directly: Am I allowed to display my products as-is?
Know the liability limit they require.
Many venues now require $1M+ in general liability coverage. Make sure your policy meets this.
Have your COI ready.
Some events want your Certificate of Insurance for adult novelty vendors weeks in advance. Others ask for it on-site. Be ready either way.
Review your booth materials for safety.
Does your lighting setup create fire risk? Are you using extension cords or powered demos? Electrical safety matters and many venues will inspect your booth.
Don't assume your current policy covers pop-ups.
Many brands carry annual retail insurance but don't realize they need event-specific endorsements or exhibitor coverage.
Event Day: The Sexy but Legal To-Do List
Your booth looks amazing. Your team is wearing matching "Ask Me About My Vibrator" tees. You're ready. But behind the scenes? These are the steps our most successful clients always take:
Double-check that your COI is printed, emailed, and in your booth binder.
Ensure every giveaway item is labeled properly (ingredients, warnings, use instructions).
Avoid giving away anything with batteries or fluids without disclaimers.
Take photos of your booth setup for insurance documentation - yes, this matters if you later file a claim.
Train your team to never make medical or therapeutic claims unless legally approved.
What Happens If You're Not Properly Insured?
Let's say your toy display gets stolen overnight. Or your sample balm gives someone a rash. Or your powered signage sparks and trips the power at the expo center.
If you're not carrying the right insurance for sex toy expo vendors, your brand, not the venue, not the coordinator, you... You could be footing the bill. And you better believe lawsuits don't care how empowering your mission is.
Why Essence is the Go-To for Adult Novelty Insurance
We specialize in adult product insurance, and we know the real risks of your spicy business. While other agents squirm or sidestep your needs, we lean in.
We work with carriers who don't flinch at words like "vibrator," "BDSM furniture," or "lube formula." We know what venues ask for, what contracts demand, and what coverage actually performs when claims come in.
Ready to Set Up Shop (Safely)?
Expos, trade shows, and toy fairs are golden opportunities to level up your brand - just don't show up without protection.
If your current agent doesn't understand your product line, doesn't know how to issue a COI, or recommends "just a general policy," it's time to call in the professionals.
Because sexy is smart. And protection is powerful.
Let's Get You Covered
Get your sex toy business insured for trade shows and expos the right way - fast, judgement-free, and fully protected.
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