Strictly starstruck at The Office Show!

I was extremely excited to meet one of my Strictly dancing idols, Karen Hardy, earlier this month at The Office* Show!

Attending the show at Olympia with my client IMA UK, I got the opportunity to have my photo taken with the former Strictly Come Dancing pro, who was there to promote her dance studios, Karen Hardy Studios, and corporate events package.

Dance Class

After supporting EUMA UK’s Chairman during her keynote speech on ‘managing up‘, I wandered round the exhibition and spotted Karen Hardy’s stall. I was told that Karen herself was shortly due to appear to give a demonstration, so the avid Strictly fan that I am, I popped back at the appointed time. Karen didn’t disappoint. She treated the onlookers – about 20 of us – to a short salsa class before posing for photos.

The eagle-eyed among you will spot Bruce Forsyth and the blond hair of Tess Daly in the background. Alas, it was simply a cardboard cut-out!

PR Opportunity

Karen’s personal appearance at the show was a great PR opportunity for her and her company. Through her short demo, she was able to attract many visitors to her stall, all of whom took away literature and learned more about her business. I’m sure she’ll get a few more corporate bookings than if she hadn’t appeared!

After the excitement of my celebrity encounter, I continued my tour of the exhibition, which proved a useful networking opportunity. While the exhibition was primarily aimed at those in the office administration profession, many of the exhibitors were also good contacts for PR. I picked up a few freebie pens (always useful!), as well as information on promotional materials, print suppliers and events venues, including Karen’s.

If you would like support producing PR and marketing materials, exhibiting at a trade show or putting on an event, contact me today.