As London Design Festival approaches, we here at JGM have been thinking of ways to help you to get the most from the experience. Here’s what works for us!

1. Doing  your research
There’s so much to see that that if you go unprepared you stand a good chance of becoming overwhelmed and missing things that could be really useful. Check out the LDF website and make a check list of the things you think you’d like to see: http://www.londondesignfestival.com/

2. Registering in advance for the big shows
Don’t pay on the door, it’s normally the most expensive way of buying a ticket. Instead, go online and pre-register which is normally free!

3. Mixing it up
Mix in the big design shows with some of the independent events – don’t limit yourself just to familiar names or related subjects. If you don’t know where to start, check out the seven design districts.  Sometimes you can find great inspiration in unexpected places.

4. Getting involved in the parties and openings
This is a great way to meet people and become part of the industry. If you’re a natural introvert there’s no harm in going along with someone you know.

5. Making sure you  are contactable
In the busy atmosphere of a fair, sometimes people will prefer to ask for your contact details and get in touch afterwards. Whether its a business card or simply a Twitter handle – make sure you have a quick and easy way for people to find you once normal service resumes.

6. Taking notes

Take a notebook and make note of anything that catches your eye. Remember to take time to reflect on what you write down – don’t just let your new found contacts and ideas gather dust when you get back to your desk!

7. Not being snap happy
Ask before taking photos – this may not always be allowed and you run the risk of making designers suspicious or grumpy!. Also, try not to get too snap happy and end up with 100’s of photos to sift through.

8. Not getting overwhelmed
Make sure you factor in water, lunch and fresh air! Also, maybe encourage a friend or colleague to come with you – then you can split up for an hour or two and do your own research. That way you will cover more ground and can compare notes over a cup of tea at a later date.

9. Following up on contacts

Once the madness of the day is over, make time to take stock while it’s still fresh in your mind. Go through your notebook and contact people that you met and spoke to. Striking while the iron’s hot will give you a great way to start conversations and build your network.

10. Above all, having FUN!

And remember, this should be a fun event so go with the flow and enjoy yourself. Hopefully we’ll bump into you along the way!

Just Got Made are hosting a series of Field Trips during the London Design Festival 2015,

come with us and see how design objects are made.

Photo Credits: Tent London (our field trip media partner)