Bridal show question

[dawnscake]

I'm doing my first bridal show next Sunday. (Just got the call yesterday!) I am trying to put together folders for potential brides. I have a CD with pics and other info, a list of references, comments and thank yous, a little info about myself, my family and my business.... Is there anything you as a bride would like to see in a cake decorators packet? Is there any info that others who have done shows could tell me??? thanks!

[Foreverweddings]

I usually give out "show specials" which is a small discount if they book with you at the show or so many days after. It is exclusively available to brides at the show. I know that brides go to bridal shows to get deals, so this helps you to get in with them.

Misty (http://www.forever-weddings.com)

[WebLady]

Here is something I wrote about bridal shows that might help ...

It's bridal show season again ... with the time and money you put into being in bridal shows, you want to get the most out of your presence there, right?! Here are some tips ...

1. Be sure to advertise that you will be at the show! Post it on your website, send out flyers, etc... "Don't forget to come see us at the "Bridal show" on this date, this location, this time, etc"

2. Once you are there, make sure you are set up and prepared before the brides start coming in! Bring plenty of literature (brochures and such) it is better to have too many than to run out! Keep your booth clean and attractive but not cluttered.

3. Come up with something creative to set yourself apart from your competition and bring attention to your booth. *i.e. an exciting theme, a special offer, demonstrations, giveaways, samples, etc ...

4. If at all possible, be there at the show yourself. If you can't be there, make sure you have an enthusiastic and knowledgeable employee their to represent you.

5. Don't forget to dress the part! Think of it like a business meeting, because in a sense that is what it is. The brides are there looking for people to do business with. You wouldn't show up to a wedding in everyday clothes would you?

6. Never leave your booth unattended! And don't eat at your booth. You always want to portray a professional image. Even if it seems slow, you never know who might be watching.

7. When brides come by your booth, start up a conversation with them! Be outgoing and excited about their day and be excited about your services and don't forget to SMILE.

8. Even if the show has brides register when they come in, try to get them to register with you as well. Giveaways and special drawings at your booth can help here too.

9. Once the show is over, contact your leads as soon as possible, to remind them of your services. Send out a letter or postcard thanking them for stopping by your booth and congratulating them again on their engagement. Offer some sort of show discount or incentive to get them to set a consultation with you.

10. Follow up. A week or so after your first contact, give them a call and/or send an email to keep you fresh on their minds. Offer again some sort of incentive with a deadline ... i.e. Get your free wedding website just for meeting with us! Hurry, offer ends September 1st! (maybe a month or so after the show date) *Then you might consider offering another bonus for booking with you.

[accessorieswedding]

We have done some shows in the past and this is a very detailed list of what should be done. Great Post. Very good information.

We always found brides and grooms like to get free items, food. A small amount of wine or some chocolates usually does the part to get them in the booth and talk about your products. Just another point.