Reality = if you are going to spend money at this type of show, you don't go halfway.. This is where you establish your image as a viable company to potential buyers.
If they did have interest and got some orders I can assure you they would have gotten many more if they would have had a decent display. This would have paid for the extra expense at the show.
But then again I didn't see the other booths so I don't know what the norm is.. lol