Perfect Wedding Show to be held at expo centre Sharjah

The current financial crisis not withstanding, the fourth edition of the show has received good response from its target markets of the Middle East and the North Africa region, the CIS countries and the Indian sub-continent.

"In fact, the response is better than the past year. This could be because our region has been the least affected by the global financial crisis and hence seen by industry representatives as the ideal market to boost their sales,"

said Mr Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, Director-General of Expo Centre Sharjah.

The Perfect Wedding Show is the region's leading wedding expo that features a comprehensive display of all wedding services and products targeted towards to-be married couples.

For the previous edition of the show, more than 100 exhibitors from Lebanon, Italy, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, India, Pakistan and the UAE had participated. Majority of the exhibitors had expressed their intention to return for the next edition of the show and have already booked the space.

"Retaining an exhibitor is tougher than getting a new one. Hence the high retention rate enjoyed by the Perfect Wedding Show speaks volumes about the reach and returns offered by the show," added Mr Midfa.

Several attractions are being planned to maximise visitor turnout this time too. Daily fashion shows that offered a sneak peek into latest trends as well as traditions of bridal ware by leading designers from the region were one of the main attractions last time. The show-stealer on the opening day of the 2008 show was celebrity designer Walid Atallah.

Live demonstrations were also quite popular with visitors during the Perfect Wedding Show 2008. As in the previous show, there will be plenty of prizes and raffles draws in store for visitors.

"Traditionally, weddings used to be organised mostly by family members and friends. Not any more," pointed out Mr Fasahat Ali Khan, Advisor to the Chairman and Board of Directors of Expo Centre Sharjah.

"The new generation, which has improved educational and career prospects, better financial exposure and a heightened sense of confidence, is in the forefront of fuelling demand for better arrangements that suit its upbringing and financial standing," said Mr Khan.

"They are looking for new products and ideas to make their wedding a memorable one. The Perfect Wedding Show will be their perfect one-stop shop for all their needs," added Mr Khan.

The Perfect Wedding Show will feature a wide range of products, including gifts and accessories, fashion and jewellery, designer ware, bridal attire, health and beauty products, cards and stationery, and every merchandise that goes into making a wedding day special.

Designers, couturiers, men's outfitters, flower and décor specialists, wedding planners and caterers will offer their services, while there will be a host of options regarding wedding and reception venues, photography, entertainment options and honeymoon destinations.

The Perfect Wedding Show is an initiative of the Expo Centre Sharjah with the support of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry.