Expo!
MamaMagic was in Cape Town this weekend and what an experience!
Even arriving at 10:00 in the morning it looked like we were late to the party. There were people coming from the CTICC going back to their vehicles with 10 boxes of diapers, 2 or 3 bags with 10 packs of wet wipes each, it was crazy. I immediately got excited as I love paying less than the recommended price for a product. Especially when it is something I cannot go without, like wet wipes and diapers.
The entrance fee of R60 seems pricey but if you shop around you make the money back with two or three smart purchases. We had exactly this point in mind and after entering the exhibition floor and receiving our welcome pack, fliers, a J & J hand cream sample and a sample pack of 10 wet wipes, we headed straight for the biggest exhibition, baby city.
Now ladies be warned if you are heading to this exhibition send hubby to go stand in a que 30 minutes before you intend to leave as you do not want to spend more time inside than necessary. It is quite hot under all the lights and the last thing a pregnant mommy needs to be doing is standing in a queue under hot lights.
Now down to what was available and the prices. Every exhibitor off course had a 'special' MammaMagic price, but be careful not to be dragged into overpaying just because the sign says 'Special Price'. The Cherubs wet wipes for instance was a real bargain when compared to what they usually cost. 10 packs with 72 wipes each for R100 is exceptional if you compare them to the usual price of R19.99 per pack, and as an added bonus you are entered into a competition to win a car seat and stroller. The toys and various feeding accessories, e.g. bottles and dummies are all very well priced, especially Pigeon, a new entry into the market that we were very impressed with. Diapers were a bit of a disappointment as they priced R10 more per pack of Pampers Active Baby diapers as opposed to what we usually pay at Giant Hyper close to Cape Gate. Moral of the story is making sure you know the prices of what you need to buy and make sure you actually save.
There is a plethora of toys and educational aids available and be sure to have a look at these. Also do not be scared to ask about the products as all the assistants seemed well informed and eager to share their product knowledge. Knowledge is power and which mother cannot do with more power?
If you are worried that the little ones might be a pain to take along there is a very entertaining Barney show running throughout the day which is sure to keep them busy and it is free so take advantage of it.
To summarise, make sure you go early, know your product prices and be sure to ask questions if you are unsure of a products functions and uses and go and have fun there is lots to explore and enjoy. I am already looking forward to next year’s expo when we can take our little angel with.
