Trade Fairs

Today, I am reading my little black book that is my essential pocket guide to the Autumn Fair at the NEC which starts on 6 September and runs until the 9th. The book came with my name badge and it looks strange to see my business listed as event management which I guess is what I do.

I have started looking through the book to make note of stands that I would like to visit and already I have found the most gorgeous stationery company - Cavania Cards, their wedding stationery is divine. I love their blog too as it is so colourful whereas mine is all text and no pictures - one day I will add photos, I promise. One of the recent topics on the blog has been the painting of the shed - and there was me thinking that shed were a man thing LOL.

You might think it strange that I would even consider attending the Autumn Fair and its sister show the Spring Fair which is held in February. I intend to try and find some suppliers of gorgeous wedding stationery as well as eco-friendly boxes as I would like some nice boxes to use as welcome boxes. Unfortunately, I cannot buy in volume as I don't have the space but I am hoping that some suppliers will take pity on me and let me buy less.

Following this fair is the BBEH which takes place in Harrogate - this trade fair is purely for the bridal trade and is mainly for bridal shops but its a great place to go to get ideas of what is expected to be in season during Spring/Summer 2010. Harrogate seems to be a difficult place to get to - I certainly don't fancy driving there so I am guessing I will have to spend a day on a train or two - I am determined to go this time.

After this will be Events UK which is also at the NEC - I hope to renew acquaintances and get some more invitations to visit venues. I shall try and do this show over two days as opposed to doing it all in one go - the last time I went was I was so loaded down with bags I could barely walk. The promotions show is on at the same time so that will be the ideal place to visit to stock up on pens and pads LOL I also intend attending some of their seminars as I want to discover ways to improve my business. In fact that has given me an idea....be right back...