Kids, baby expo a big success

PARENTS, children and exhibitors were left satisfied over the weekend at the conclusion of The Herald Clover Kids and Baby Expo on Sunday. The expo, held at the lifestyle centre at Moffett on Main shopping centre, saw nearly 7000 people attend the event with over 100 exhibitors selling their wares and services to mums and dads.

The big winner over the weekend was Kensington mother of one, Shalaine Cornellissen, who is 36 weeks pregnant and who won the grand prize worth R45000.

"I entered every possible competition at the expo and can't believe I actually got the big one. It's my son's birthday soon so the [Atmosphere Crafts] party for 15 kids that was included in the prize will come in handy and the bicycle and the jungle gym was an early birthday present for him. I think my son and my husband are enjoying the prizes the most because my husband now has the DStv Walka and the HD decoder but I'm glad for the Funteriors decor voucher and can't wait to get started on the decorating," she said.

The expo kept up with its previous attendance records, with a steady stream of visitors who could be seen shopping, chatting to exhibitors or simply enjoying of one of the many new things to see and do.

The Tropika playground was abuzz with activity as kids gathered at the various fun stations, from boxing to ducky fishing and boys could be seen tackling and taking instructions from the team at the Future Kings rugby section and the Giant Roller Ball, also in the play area, was a great hit with the kids.

Exhibition stand prize winners at the expo were:

• Newton Park Training Centre, Computers 4 Kids, won the top stand award. The team scored top points for their innovative use of lighting, ready-to-use PC stations for kids and their passion for their product, with a great team and promotional goods on hand.

• Second prize went to Words with Wings with their gorgeous selection of gifting and photographic products presented in an aesthetically exquisite stand.

• Third prize joint winners were innovative new baby food product company Little Foodie and Sew Cool of Il Vicolo Creative Studio.

Event organiser Linda Harwood said the expo was well received by both exhibitors and visitors.

"I was so pleased with the many positive comments I personally received from visitors and exhibitors.

"Both said how much they enjoyed the variety of exhibitors, the activities and entertainment, and the expanded food court to cater for all tastes.

"And in particular everyone seemed to welcome the new layout, with its spaciousness and new visitor-friendly look and feel," Harwood said.