OK, I think I'm finally ready to try for my first bridal show in September?!

I have canvas's, a few albums, prints, and enlargements... or at least I will within the next week or two.

I don't have slide shows... do I really need them? That is not currently a product I order... only because I have not had time to even think about the Show it stuff....

I'm working on my new priclist for '09, and have cards (obviously).

I want to have a 16x20 give away. and then a "favor" of some sort.

What am I missing? what am I not thinking about?

I've actually worked a ton of trade shows including about 30 or show bridal shows.... but never for myself.


I think I will need a mailer after right?



A little help over here!!!! I want to budget now for september. because I'm also working on a client room in my apartment. so I need to get that ready too.

Also any show advise would be so appreciated!


THANK YOU!!!!!!

you know what? i would do something where they have to leave their name and number and wedding date with you - like have a 'drawing' for a free something... then you can get back in contact with them.

just my opinion, but a slideshow running of all your best work might be really killer!

Tami is right - here is how we do it.

Everyone is looking to win something at these shows, hell girls even arrive with pre printed labels with their personal details, ready to be stuck on anything they need to enter.

We had some pads printed where people could enter their details in a prize draw, and gave away something fro free - say an engagement session, or whatever. Most people will simply fill it in, or hand them a slip and a pen, and they will do it.

We went to Staples and bought one of those prize draw boxes, you know, with the cut out to drop your entry in. Make sure you have lots of pens, and have this stuff in plain sight.

Oh, and the organizer of the event SHOULD be forwarding details of the participants, assuming they sell tickets before the day.

We didn't give away favors, everybody else is! But we would have a large bowl with chocolate in it.

Laptop or iMac and slideshows will help.

Good luck! Listen, if you need ANY help, PM me. I think the marketing AFTER the event is possibly more important than the event.

Hugh

I knew I needed to have a drawing... I am planning to give away a 16x20... I want to make it something good. So I've got that down.

Hugh, Thank you SO much for offering up what to do with the names and marketing after the event! I will absolutely take you up on that!