Seeking Advice: Participating in a Bridal Show - Worth the Cost?

[plichte]

I have the opportunity to be a part of a bridal show in my area which I am waaaaaay excited about. However, I found out today the cost of the space is $500 - she is willing to give me a 10% discount - I am hoping for more after the sappy e-mail I just sent her. I wanted your guys' opinion though. What do you think about this cost? Has anyone ever participated in a Bridal Show and found it to be worth their while? I am a little nervous to spend that much without knowing if something will come out of it.

 

[Cindycooks]

I have and got quite a few leads, but this is WAAAAYYYYY more than I paid. Here our bridal fairs are around $175 and I split it with another consultant. Are there other consultants in your cluster that you could consider doing that with - or doing it in shifts?

 

[plichte]

That is what I was thinking was splitting it. I just didnd't know what the results MIGHT be and if I would want to split 2 contacts. Know what I mean? Thanks for your insight - I hope some others have some as well.

 

[pamperedbecky]

That is what I was thinking was splitting it. I just didnd't know what the results MIGHT be and if I would want to split 2 contacts. Know what I mean? Thanks for your insight - I hope some others have some as well.

Around the Chicago area, the big bridal shows are at least that. Some go as high as $700 or more. One of my consultants was offered the chance to participate in one FOR FREE because her friend coordinated it.....normally her price would have been $1000!!!

 

[ChefBeckyD]

I'm doing a big one here in GR in Sept. It is Friday Evening and all day Saturday and Sunday afternnoon, and we all paid $50 for 2 hr time slots! There are 3 of us per time slot.....that figures out to $1500! This is my first time doing it, but from what I hear - it is well worth the money! It is widely advertised and held at the DeVos Convention Center (HUGE!) and people are lined up waiting to get in before the doors open!
Maybe you could find out what the expected attendance is and split the time up with several consultants? If its going to be very busy - you may be able to do it that way?

 

[DebbieJ]

I would not do it for $500.

And I would not do it unless you have time available after the fair for follow up and if you do not commit to doing it. It's all about gathering the leads and doing the follow up.