If you’re looking for something to do this weekend and are a beauty enthusiast, you have to check out IMATS (aka the International Make-up Artist Trade Show), an annual event bringing together some of the best brands in the cosmetics industry. IMATS is essentially the equivalent of a make-up-artist being like a kid in a candy store! But of course you don’t necessarily need to be a make-up artist to attend – the event is open to everyone! Tickets can be purchased in advance of the event, or at the door, depending on availability.
At IMATS, you’ll find many professional (and make-up artist approved) brands, some of which aren’t always easily accessible in Canada – all under one roof and often better-priced! Make-up artists can score deals on kit essentials like disposables, brushes + palettes…while all attendees can score some discounts that are usually only available to make-up artists!
I personally am not a very patient shopper (I dread the Christmas shopping crowds and line-ups at the register!). I like to do my research beforehand, make a list and then get-in-and-out as soon as I can! If you’re shopping style resembles mine, here are a couple of IMATS survival tips:
1. Cash is king.
Line-ups are generally a lot longer for credit/debit payments. Bring plenty of cash because i). once you’re there you’ll wish you brought more and ii). sometimes you get better deals for paying ‘cash only’. :)
2. Print out a map + vendor list – much easier than trying to read it on your smartphone. Here I’ll make it easy.
Map:Â http://www.imats.net/toronto/toronto_floor_plan.php
Vendors:Â http://www.imats.net/toronto/toronto_exhibitor_list.php
Make your plan of attack and highlight the vendors you want to visit – go to the booths that are usually most popular (i.e. Make-up Forever where most of the good stuff goes on the first day!).
[Recommended products/items will follow in another post] :)
3. Following on that note, go on the first day for best selection.
4. Dress comfortably (shoes included) and also wear your patience hat. It’s a look even I try to don with my time-efficient shopping style. :)
More details on IMATS this weekend:
LOCATION:
Toronto Congress Centre, North Hall H
650 Dixon Road
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
HOURS:
Saturday, November 12th (General admission) 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Sunday, November 13th, (General admission) 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Further info at www.imats.net.
Happy shopping!!
