A LOCAL event planner and stylist wants to turn the Fraser Coast into the events destination of choice.
Owner of The Opulence AU, Carmel Thomson said the region had so many different wedding and events locations that people are spoilt for choice.
“K’gari (Fraser Island) is an obvious location for many couples but there are countless other hidden gems – whether it’s near the ocean or the bush, there are opportunities for everyone,” Mrs Thomson said.
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In an effort to showcase the region to couples planning their weddings and businesses wanting to identify their next corporate event location, Mrs Thomson decided to throw an expo.
And just like that The Hervey Bay Wedding and Events Expo was born.
“The main goal of the expo is to promote the local wedding and events industry and encourage people to get married here,” Mrs Thomson said.
“As planners and stylists ourselves, we recognise how important an event like this is for locals and businesses alike.”
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She said the event targeted locals, encouraging them to get married in their own hometown, and people from outside the Fraser Coast.
“There are so many fantastic service providers in the region, the local talent is incredible,” Mrs Thomson said.
More than 25 vendors have already signed up to showcase their products and services and numbers continue to grow.
A full range of service providers will set up stalls upstairs at the Beach House Hotel in Scarness on Sunday, April 18.
Some of service providers who have already confirmed their attendance include:
- Photographers;
- Florists
- Hair and Makeup artists
- Wellness services
- Videographers;
- Designers;
- Stylists;
- Henna artists;
- Wedding and events venues;
- Celebrants and
- Entertainers
“The expo is geared towards showcasing the local businesses and service providers that are right here on our doorstep,” Mrs Thomson explained.
She said the expo will be broken up into two sessions on the day.
The first session runs from 11am until 1pm and the second from 2pm until 4pm and tickets will be available at the door unless sold out prior.
Other activities planned for the day include interactive fashion displays, live music and a presentation from a local celebrant.
“The expo will be an event and celebration in itself,” Mrs Thomson said.
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She urged anyone planning a wedding, corporate event or any celebration to visit the expo.
“Whether you’re a private party or corporate, if you’re planning a celebration, the expo is going to help you familiarise with what is available to you on the Fraser Coast. It’s much easier to work with providers on your own doorstep.”
“More than anything, it’s going to be a beautiful, fun and luxe experience – with air conditioning and ocean views, it’s not your average expo. We’re going to make sure that business and attendees have a fantastic day” said Mrs Thomson.
Tickets cost $10 and can be purchased online, here.
Date: 18 April 2021
Venue: The Beach House Hotel, Scarness
Time: 11am-1pm; 2pm-4pm.
For more information and regular updates, you can respond to The Hervey Bay Wedding and Events Expo event on Facebook and follow @theopulenceau.