Vancouver Event: EPIC

EPIC Vancouver is Sustainable Living Expo that features food, clothing, cars, cosmetics that are local and are for the environmentally friendly consumer.  It was 2008 when I first heard of this event and brought a team of volunteers to help.  That was at the old convention center.  It has come a long way since three years ago.

This year EPIC Vancouver is from May 13 - 15 at the new Vancouver Convention Center and the exhibit hall is packed from wall-to-wall with displays, products, samples and more.  Some of the highlights for me was the EpiCurean Corner where I was able to taste samples from seven different restaurants and two different local BC wineries for a minimum $5 donation.  The samples were tapas size but the quality was extraordinary.  Blueberry Wine from Westham Estate Winery, Spot Prawn appetizer from Hapa Umi and Spiced Sausage pizza from Rocky Mountain Flatbread Company and more.

I also enjoyed the Bridal Couture Fashion show.  There was a catwalk and I felt as though I was in a couture fashion show as you would see in New York, Paris, or Toronto during fashion week. (How can you tell I've watched a lot of fashion shows on TV but have never been to any in real life except for this one).  It was great to be able to see the beautiful wedding dresses worn by models with hair, makeup, bridal bouquet, the works! 

Overall, even though I had the chance to see a bridal fashion show and great food, I don't think that the event is worth the price of the ticket ($9 online ticket sales).  I was lucky enough to get free tickets this time.  In three years the show has definitely expanded and unfortunately has become too consumer heavy for my liking. 
I would however recommend volunteering for this event. The EPIC volunteer t-shirts are worth it and have ladies fitted sized.  Very fashionable.