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Wedding Blog

Planning Tip of The Week - Going to a Bridal Show

by The Scoop of mywedding.com

Photography by Cameron Ingalls - see more at www.cameroningalls.com

Attending a bridal expo is as much overwhelming as it is exciting! Here are some suggestions to make it a fun and stress free experience:

  • Pre-register to attend a show. Most shows give discounts on admission cost when you pre-register.

  • Bring pre-addressed adhesive labels or contact cards with your name, address, phone number and email address. The idea here is to save time when you register for contests or give your contact info to vendors. Stick them to entry forms or drop a card off with a vendor and walk on. Don’t forget to print your wedding date on these contact cards as well. Many times, exhibitors will mail savings offers accommodating your special day.

  • Bring a pen. Your signature may be needed to reserve a service. So, again, save time and bring a pen or two.

  • Bring your checkbook. Usually a partial payment is required to book a service for your event. Many exhibitors give their biggest discounts at these shows.

  • Carry a tote bag. Some shows give out free bags at registration, but not all do. In that case, bring your own! You will be collecting tons of literature, as well as exhibitor freebies like pens, notepads, favor samples, music cds, etc.

  • Bring a bottle of water. Throw one in your tote bag! You’ll be walking, sampling yummy cakes and food, as well as chatting it up with the vendors. You may need to rehydrate!

  • Should you bring your fiance or best friend? Shows are beginning to cater to the male crowd and have a specific area for them to flock to. So, why not bring both? Or consider going to more than one show. Two words, cake samples!

  • Where can you find a show in your area? mywedding.com's event calendar is current with shows, expos, wine tastings, venue tours, etc. It’s updated daily. You’ll find an event that suits your fancy in your area or somewhere nearby.

    • Most importantly, relax and have fun!!

    The Scoop mywedding.com April 7, 2008

    Comments

    Leave a comment

      • New York Wedding Photographer
      • 04-08-2008   07:19 PM (PST)
      • I love these tips. They seem so practical and useful for brides. If you are a bride you must check out the mywedding.com's event calendar!


        Peace,
        Parris Whittingham
        New York City Wedding Photography
      • Reply      
      • Christine
      • 04-10-2008   04:26 AM (PST)
      • Great tips. These shows can be so overwhelming if you aren't prepared. There are some more tips over on the Wedding Dish.
      • Reply      
      • Morgan
      • 04-12-2008   05:36 PM (PST)
      • Actually for labels, I'd recommend including:
        Your Name
        Groom's Name
        Address
        Phone Number
        Email address (make a new email address for your wedding stuff -- you will start getting lots of spam!)
        Wedding Date

        I'd also highly discourage brides from booking any services at a bridal show UNLESS they have researched the vendors beforehand. I've heard too many brides regret booking someone only to research later and find horrible reviews or BBB complaints, and they either have to risk it or lose their deposit. Most bridal shows have a list of the vendors who will be there. Research the vendors before you go, then talk further to anyone you are still interested in.

        DEFINITELY bring your own bag. Most shows will have bags handed out but they are plastic or paper and they WILL break! You will be taking lots of catalogs and you want something sturdy and comfortable to carry.
      • Reply      
      • Anita
      • 04-28-2008   06:21 PM (PST)
      • Great post!!!

        Anita
        www.herweddingplanner.com
      • Reply      
      • E
      • 08-04-2008   03:00 PM (PST)
      • Where did you get your dresses??? They are amazing!!!!
      • Reply      

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