Have any of you ever done a bridal show? I got an invitation to participate in one locally and I'm interested, but I'm assuming this would fall into the category of advertising... and I'm not licensed. I laughed it off at first, thinking "yeah right. Like I could do that!" But the more I thought about it, I started to come up with all these ideas of things I would need to do to prepare (other than the licensing part). Anyway, have any of you ever done one and did it help your business?

I haven't, mainly because I'm not licensed. Also, this is more of a fun past time than a business for me. What I would need to become licensed in MI is so out of my reach, but I really would love to figure out a way to make this work out as an actual career. Anyway, since I'm not licensed I just prefer word of mouth customers--with my luck I'd end up getting sued over something, people are strange and I just prefer not to open myself up to that at this point.

I'm not ready to get licensed either and it's probably out of my reach right now too. I just started coming up with all of these ideas for a display at a bridal show and thought it would be fun and a good way to get more business. I know there would be a lot of work going into preparing for it though.

Eventually, this is what I want to be doing for a career. But I can't quit my regular job right now, just can't afford it. I just thought others on here might have some insight. I know it's not an impossible dream, so many people do it now. I'm just scared to dive off into the deep end. I prefer just sticking my toes in a little at a time... I know, I know, I'm a chicken.

I would check with the fair organizers first. Depending on where it is being held, you might need to show proof of your licensing before even being able to participate (this is quite common, especially if it is being held at a convention center or similar).

If it were me, I wouldn't do it. If you aren't licensed, it's a (...) risk and you are opening yourself up to a lot of scrutiny.

Just my $0.02. Good luck with your decision

lotsoftots,
In MI do you have to have a separate kitchen?

cande, you're right. I will get my stuff together and work on licensing and maybe next year. This bridal show is happening on Feb. 11th so that is way too soon to get everything in order in time. Oh well. Hopefully the opportunity will be offered again in the future.

I would send a response and say thanks for the invite, but I am not able to participate this year. That way they (hopefully) will keep you on the "list" for next year!

what an opportunity!!! could you possibly make a deal with a local church or day care that has a liscensed kitchen and see if you can do your cakes there????? feb. not that far away, so you'd have to be fast.....just an idea....anyway IF this worked out, you could do the bridal show, and get orders for wedding cakes and could then offord something a little more perminent for your business.
i always go for the long shot....but it wouldnt hurt anything to at least check out using someones kitchen so you can do the show?

let us know what happens!!
melody

My mom works at a store that sells pizza and sandwich type of items so I'm sure her boss would let me use that kitchen if I had to. Thanks melodyscakes! I hadn't thought about it until you suggested it!

I talked to my husband about it and he's always been very supportive so he thought it was a great idea to be a part of it. It's not being held at a convention center, just a local restaurant that offers a reception room where a lot of receptions/parties are held. It's basically the only spot around town for anything like that other than VFW or Legion halls. It costs $150 for the spot and an extra $10 if you want electric hookups. It sounds like a great opportunity, but I'm terrified of failure!! I'll definitely keep you informed on what I decide. I'll have to get busy if I'm going to do it . I usually need a swift kick in the rear to made decisions like this!

okay, remember you asked for this..... throwing you a very swift kick in the behind!!!!!! YOU CAN DO THIS!!!!!
also, $150.00 isnt that much of an investment...considering all the publicity you'll get. you'll make your money back after you sell your first cake.

GET BUSY!!!!


melody

Thank you very much melodyscakes! That's what I needed. Can you tell I'm very wishy-washy about it? I got the invite before Christmas so I thought about it briefly then put it off to think about again after the holiday business was over. I guess I can't procrastinate any longer if I'm going to do it! Thanks for the kick (love those emoticons)