Preparing for a Trade Show

This year I was lucky enough to be front row for all three days of The Fellowship Stage at Salon International. That means I had the perfect view of everything the fantastic line up had to showcase. I was writing, taking photos and live twitter feeding throughout - oh plus I got a cheeky fringe cut in by the legend that is Bruno Marc from Marc Antoni.

After arriving on Saturday - coffee in hand and a quick flat to heel change of shoe - I took my place for the show. 

1. Be prepared

These shows are the perfect opportunity to get tips and hints from big names in the industry so make sure you come armed with everything you need. Phones are perfect for recording and capturing beautiful looks but a pen and paper never goes a miss at these events. A quick jot down of everything and anything can mean the difference between knowing where to place a hair piece or how to produce a show stopping avante garde look

Oh and food! Never under estimate how busy you might be at a show like this. That sandwich break you think you will have you probably wont so bring lunch. My top tip - if you are staying in a hotel their biscuits can make the difference between tummy rumbling and feeling slightly fulfilled

2. Dress Code

That beautiful outfit you have seen in Topshop will be perfect and those high heels would look great with it. Just remember you will be on your feet all day and you might look hot but when you are walking like a baby giraffe because your toes are crumpled and your feel are killing you wont look quite as glamorous

3. Plan

This is the perfect opportunity to visit some great brands and see some fabulous shows. Don't just rock up and hope for the best. Plan who you want to see and consider getting to the stage earlier. Limited seating will mean those shoes you have still chosen to wear (against my advice) will be subjecting your feet to even more standing

4. Be Professional

Any trade exhibition you visit should be considered an interview. You are passing by industry experts so remember to impress. You never know when you might meet them again. Swearing and talking loudly over a coffee in the cafe isn't how you want to be remembered

5. Be surprised

You have chosen who you want to see and you have seen all the brands you want to so what next? Go and see someone you haven't. Better than that go and support an upcoming team or individual. Everyone appreciates a full crowd and I was wowed by all of our younger or less well known experts

6. Ask

Our membership is a great opportunity to network, and there are lots of other great organisations in every industry so don't be afraid to ask for more details. You cannot be expected to know everything so don't feel silly - ASK!

7. Enjoy

You have been looking forward to this exhibition all year and now it is here - ENJOY!