I’ve been to two wedding fairs in the last few months and to be honest, all I got from the $20 entrance fee each time was the constant harassment from salespeople about their services: “photos, dresses, make-up”. It was as if I was transported to Shenzhen’s Lowu Plaza, albeit in a more sophisticated surrounding. However, if you know what you’re looking for, the fair can save you more than a few bucks.

• Do some research before you attend the fair. If it’s event design companies you’re after, find out their style and rough prices. At the fair, focus only on the companies that you like and discuss with them your concept. They’ll most likely persuade you to put down a deposit to enjoy their exclusive ‘wedding fair’ discount – don’t be a softie and give in, but if you’re sure they are the one, there’s no harm.
• For those who need to buy ‘cake vouchers’ to put together with their wedding invitations, you’ll find up to 20% discount at the fair so save buying them until then. Chinese tradition has it that the groom’s family will pick an auspicious day to send gifts and cakes to the bride’s family and in order to celebrate the happy union, the bride’s family will ‘share’ these cakes with friends and family. That’s why you’ll find that if you are a friend or family member of the bride, your invitation will be accompanied with a cake voucher. Sorry friends of the groom, you don’t get any.