ccrusoe
- 19
Raleigh Bridal Fairs: Don't Miss Out on the Top Wedding Events in NC!
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Discussion Overview
The thread discusses experiences and opinions regarding participation in bridal fairs in the Raleigh, NC area, particularly focusing on their effectiveness and value for Pampered Chef consultants.
Discussion Character
- Opinion-based
- Anecdotal
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant expresses frustration about a single consultant dominating all three bridal fairs, feeling it limits opportunities for others.
- Another participant shares their view that bridal fairs are not worth the investment, citing personal experiences of high costs and low returns.
- A different participant agrees, stating that while there can be exceptions, their own experience yielded no valuable leads from previous fairs.
- One participant mentions that bridal fairs can be lucrative if approached correctly, highlighting the potential for collecting bridal registry names for follow-up marketing.
- Another participant describes their positive experiences at bridal fairs, noting that they have successfully generated bookings and leads, particularly from attendees who are not directly involved in wedding planning.
- One participant shares that they have had a significant number of registries from bridal fairs, but only a few resulted in substantial sales.
- Another participant suggests wearing logowear at bridal fairs as a way to promote oneself.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Views differ significantly among participants regarding the value and effectiveness of bridal fairs, with some finding them beneficial and others deeming them unproductive.
Contextual Notes
Participants share personal experiences and opinions based on their involvement in bridal fairs, reflecting a range of outcomes and strategies related to marketing and networking.
Who May Find This Useful
Consultants considering participation in bridal fairs or those seeking to understand different perspectives on the effectiveness of such events for their businesses.
ChefBeckyD
Gold Member
- 20,320
I was going to post the same as Deb.
In my experience, Bridal Fairs are the most expensive, and least productive type of booth you can do. I know that I've seen exceptions to this, but they are exactly that - exceptions.
I did a couple earlier in my career, after I had my baby, and was wanting to get back into the swing of things. Paid a lot of money, and can't think of one lead or contact that panned out from either one.
In my experience, Bridal Fairs are the most expensive, and least productive type of booth you can do. I know that I've seen exceptions to this, but they are exactly that - exceptions.
I did a couple earlier in my career, after I had my baby, and was wanting to get back into the swing of things. Paid a lot of money, and can't think of one lead or contact that panned out from either one.
ccrusoe
- 19
J
Judybabe
bridal fairs can be lucrative if done right, however they are so expensive to attend it's almost not worth it. The biggest incentive is getting that bridal registry list of names. You can send postcards, mini's in the name of 'getting married' or congrats! and the brides eat them up.
might I suggest asking a bridal shop to let you set up a box offering info on "pampered chef bridal registries and shower shows'. check it weekly or purchase a brochure holder from an office supply store and put brochures about BR's and Shower shows in the shop and girls and their friends or family will pick them up. again, check on it weekly. In my bridal shop, I had a counter that other businesses could leave their cards, brochures etc. for my customers' to take. I became a local resource center for weddings in general. people would call the shop for the name of a caterer or cake decorator or photographer.:thumbup:
BUT, this shop is helping you so help her back. talk about her shop when visiting with friends or customers. give her a small gift as a token of your appreciation. I guess this is what smart people would call networking.
:balloon:
If you develop a relationship with a shop, you might offer to give her some items for a door prize she gives away and she would give you a copy of the bridal names that registered at the fair.
might I suggest asking a bridal shop to let you set up a box offering info on "pampered chef bridal registries and shower shows'. check it weekly or purchase a brochure holder from an office supply store and put brochures about BR's and Shower shows in the shop and girls and their friends or family will pick them up. again, check on it weekly. In my bridal shop, I had a counter that other businesses could leave their cards, brochures etc. for my customers' to take. I became a local resource center for weddings in general. people would call the shop for the name of a caterer or cake decorator or photographer.:thumbup:
BUT, this shop is helping you so help her back. talk about her shop when visiting with friends or customers. give her a small gift as a token of your appreciation. I guess this is what smart people would call networking.
:balloon:
If you develop a relationship with a shop, you might offer to give her some items for a door prize she gives away and she would give you a copy of the bridal names that registered at the fair.
Becca_in_MD
Gold Member
- 1,464
Bridal fairs have been very worth it for me. They have restarted my biz a couple of times.
I suggest contacting the person who has the booth at the 3 fairs. She may be selling time slots to other consultants.
A team member gets our bridal fair booth and sells hour time slots. She handles getting the booth, the display and the door prizes that the fair requires. Each consultant provides their own door prize slips and anything else they want to hand out. The February fair that we do at the convention center is a 2-day event and usually each consultant pays $50/hour. The Aug. fair is 1-day so the fee is a little higher, $65/hour. The rate may seem a bit high, but with one booking you have earned it back and then you're in touch with a new group of people and get bookings from there.
I look at bridal fairs as booking lead generators and eventually recruit generators. Two of my team members booked shows off the fair and eventually signed. Another team member was a guest at a show I booked off the fair. I don't push the bridal registry as they have not been producers for me. The best leads are the mothers, sisters and others who attend b/c they're not as tied up in wedding planning.
The reward is all in the follow-up. If you invest in a fair, you have to follow-up with the booking leads within 24-48 hours. I give a free cooking show to EVERYONE (just keep track of who was there together so they both don't win). Not everyone will accept the prize, not all of them will book something for the next month. I tell them the free cooking show is valid until xxx date.
I suggest contacting the person who has the booth at the 3 fairs. She may be selling time slots to other consultants.
A team member gets our bridal fair booth and sells hour time slots. She handles getting the booth, the display and the door prizes that the fair requires. Each consultant provides their own door prize slips and anything else they want to hand out. The February fair that we do at the convention center is a 2-day event and usually each consultant pays $50/hour. The Aug. fair is 1-day so the fee is a little higher, $65/hour. The rate may seem a bit high, but with one booking you have earned it back and then you're in touch with a new group of people and get bookings from there.
I look at bridal fairs as booking lead generators and eventually recruit generators. Two of my team members booked shows off the fair and eventually signed. Another team member was a guest at a show I booked off the fair. I don't push the bridal registry as they have not been producers for me. The best leads are the mothers, sisters and others who attend b/c they're not as tied up in wedding planning.
The reward is all in the follow-up. If you invest in a fair, you have to follow-up with the booking leads within 24-48 hours. I give a free cooking show to EVERYONE (just keep track of who was there together so they both don't win). Not everyone will accept the prize, not all of them will book something for the next month. I tell them the free cooking show is valid until xxx date.
Chef Bobby
Gold Member
- 1,045
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Raleigh Bridal Fairs?
Raleigh Bridal Fairs are events designed for engaged couples to explore various wedding vendors, services, and products. These fairs typically feature a wide range of exhibitors, including florists, photographers, caterers, and wedding planners, providing couples with everything they need to plan their special day.
When do Raleigh Bridal Fairs typically take place?
Raleigh Bridal Fairs are usually held throughout the year, with several major events occurring in the spring and fall. It's best to check local event calendars or the official websites of the fairs for specific dates and times.
How can I register for a Raleigh Bridal Fair?
Registration for Raleigh Bridal Fairs can often be done online through the event's official website. Couples may need to purchase tickets in advance, and some fairs may offer free admission. It's advisable to register early to secure your spot and receive any special offers.
What should I expect at a Raleigh Bridal Fair?
At a Raleigh Bridal Fair, you can expect to meet a variety of wedding vendors, attend informative seminars, and participate in contests or giveaways. Many fairs also feature fashion shows showcasing bridal gowns and attire, providing inspiration for your wedding day look.
Are Raleigh Bridal Fairs worth attending?
Yes, attending Raleigh Bridal Fairs can be very beneficial for engaged couples. These events provide a unique opportunity to meet multiple vendors in one place, compare services and prices, and gather ideas and inspiration for your wedding. Additionally, many vendors offer exclusive discounts for attendees.
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