In May, I went to IMATS (International Makeup Artist Trade Show) in London and it was pretty amazing but there are a few things that you should keep in mind before you decide to go.
So, I've created this survival guide, which should take you through all the steps of how to prepare and survive IMATS- while still enjoying every second of it!!
1. Charge your phone & camera
Set a reminder on your phone to charge everything the night before as there is nothing more frustrating than waking up to a dead phone. You can bring cameras so always take an extra battery or SD card. I'd highly recommend a portable charger as you'll be Snapchatting and Instagramming the whole day- I got mine from here: http://www.clasohlson.com/uk/Clas-Ohlson-3350-mAh-Powerbank/Pr387696000
2. Be prepared to queue
At any big event you know you're going to have to queue somewhere along the line whether it's for food or entry or the toilets. So definitely be prepared for that, also I'd recommend getting there either early or later because I got there at about 10:30 and I had to queue outside for 25-30 mins.
3. Get a pro card if you can
On the same queuing point- definitely see if you're eligible for a Pro Card, it helps you skip queues and gets you AMAZING deals, you can also attend the Friday which is just for MUAs rather than the general public.
4. Make game plan
Search up what brands are going to be there and what you really want to get from them. Bearing in mind that it is very busy and the stalls are pretty small, you probably won't be able to get a foundation match. However, if you know what colour you are before hand, you can definitely buy it there. Also, I'd check the brands' social media accounts in case they have special deals going on for that weekend.
5. Know what you want to buy and see
Knowing what you want to see is important. I'd recommend getting to any panels or shows you want to see about 10/15 mins before it starts so you can bag a good seat. I'd also do some research on pricing before hand because it may seem like a good deal at the time but it might be the same price in store.
Keep an eye out on the IMATS website and see when they go on sale. I bought my ticket about 4 weeks before the event and it was £50, if you buy them 2 months before it's cheaper. Gotta save that money for the makeup!
7. Bring food/ snacks and cash and water
Although they probably have food, I always take snacks and water wherever I go. It's busy and warm in the convention so I'd definitely take a bottle of water with me. Cash is an option, I find I can keep track of what I'm buying more easily with cash than I can with card, most stalls do take card though.
8. Wear sensible shoes
I swear I always sound like a mum when I say this but I cannot emphasise enough how important it is to wear comfortable shoes. I know these events can be a fashion contest, but trust me, you will thank me when you realise that wearing flat shoes definitely beats heels. Having said that, if you're an experienced heel wearer then go for it! I am always cold so I take a jacket with me wherever I go, it can be warm inside the actual building but we queued up for a bit outside and it wasn't warm, So I would bring a light jacket that you can tie round your waist.
9. Things might sell out quickly
Decide where you want to go and what you want then definitely go and get it or else it will sell out! (Especially popular products!)
10. Keep your eyes peeled for freebies
And last but by no means least, keep your deal hunting eyes open for freebies! Everyone loves a good freebie even if it's just a tester and they do hand them out so bear that in mind. Also, don't be afraid to network, have a chat with someone running a stall and maybe you'll get their Facebook and you can use their contact in the future.
Until next time,
Beffy xo ♡
