the Cost of Trade Shows

Every year there is a trade show in Orlando, FL for the beauty industry. A hair, skin or nail representative usually comes around to each salon and hands out fliers about the show or sells tickets for the show. The show usually lasts 2 to 3 days and it usually is on a weekend. This particular show cost $100 per ticket and that included going for the whole weekend. If you are coming from out of town though, keep in mind that the ticket does NOT include room and board at any hotel. The price of the ticket is for the trade show only. This trade show had hair experts, nail experts, skin care experts, vendors and new product lines about to be put out on the market. New inventions for the industry and new techniques in hair styling and hair coloring. There are runways showing off the latest trends in beauty enhancement. There are also classes teaching you how to perform these new techniques. Some of the biggest names in the beauty industry come to these trade shows, showing off their talent. For $100 per ticket, I believe that it is worth it to go every year to keep up with the fast paced, ever growing hair, skin and nail industry.

This trade show was probably one of the best I have ever been to. It is held at a huge convention center that can hold thousands of people at a time. There are a few things I loved about this show. The first one is the vendors who sell their new products or services. Some of these products have not even been put on the market yet, so they sell them at really low prices in order for you to try them. There is one product I purchased from a vendor that made me a deal. She told me that if I bought this product and I loved it, I could keep purchasing it at the price she originally quoted me, even if the product takes off and she increases the price. I thought that was an awesome deal so I agreed. I love this product very much and to this day, I still buy this product from her. Plus, she has kept to her word. Another aspect of the show I loved, was the hair classes. They teach you new techniques on hair cutting and shaping and allow hands on training. Be sure to bring your tools with you though, if you think you will performing any service. Most of these shows do not allow you to use other people's tools.

When going to a trade show, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing. These venues can become packed with people and you will be walking on your feet all day. Like I mentioned before, bring your own tools if it is a hair show. Bring your scissors or razors, etc. If you are a colorist, you won't need to bring anything with you. They have the color, color bowls, foil, and brushes there for you to use. Also, be prepared to spend money. You may think you want to only spend $100, but you will be surprised on how many products and services you will want to try. Some of the vendors offer samples, but usually you will have to pay a small price to try out their product or service. If you are serious about the show you are attending, bring enough money to experience as much as possible to educate yourself and further your career. Another tip I would like to share is, try to meet as many people from the shows as possible. Networking is an amazing way to grow your business and/or expand your horizons. There are so many talented people in the beauty industry. Why not meet as many of them as possible?