I am going to the trade fair to buy furniture and decor for my event company in South Africa Jenny

Could anyone give me some idea of a good way to go about this. I do have a supplier for plates already but I am going to the trade fair to find suppliers for other goods we use. Should I hire an agent to help me negotiate better deals? or should I just hire a translator? I am going to get a visa but do I need an invitation to the trade fair for the visa application? I need to stay in Guangdong in China - any suggestions on a good safe hotel (for a woman)to stay in? Any assistance/advice would be greatly appreciated