Tips for visiting a bridal show

Bridal Shows, Fashion Shows and Extravaganzas bring the excitement of New York's choreographed fashion shows and the highest haute couture to the location you are about to visit. No wedding would be complete without a visit to a bridal expo. From food to flowers to bridal gowns and formalwear, it is all there to help you plan, to confuse, and more importantly, for the fun of being there! You can plan your wedding from just one visit to a well run, and fully staffed bridal expo and fashion show.

Here are a few tips:

Before you go to the show, stop by the web site of the event, and look over the announcement of exhibitors. Call those who interest you and ask if they can meet with you at the bridal show. Mention the stage you are at, planning, just starting, finalizing vendors. This gives the exhibitors a chance to tailor the display or presentation to you specifically.
Check for local discounts for entrance tickets.
Register for all the give-away and raffles that are being offered.
Have a check list of the items that interest you the most including:

Limousines
Caterers
Rental Companies
Entertainment
Event locations
Wedding planners (maybe this should be at the top of the list!)
Dress makers

While you are at the show, make a list of the exhibitors who really “wow’ed” you. Within just a few days, contact those vendors even if the call or visit is only exploratory and say “I saw you at the Bridal Expo and really liked what I saw.” This is your way of telling the exhibitors that they did a good job, and a way to express your interest. Should your plans not include that vendor for your Wedding, at least they know their display and staff at the show made an impression on you.

Remember the truth about wedding fairs and bridal shows: the exhibitors are not as focused on YOUR wedding as you are. They are focused on helping as many people by answering questions and getting contacts. YOUR focus comes from you! If you need more attention, politely as for a moment of the exhibitor’s time. You will be surprised how quickly you get undivided attention.

Of course, if you wish, you can always visit a bridal show online and experience the fun and excitement of walking through the different vendors’ displays, even if it is in the virtual world.

It’s the Bridal Show Season. Get out there, and have some fun! We’ll see you at the Newport Bridal Show this weekend walking through the exhibitions. We’ll be exhibiting at the Commander’s Mansion in Watertown’s Wedding Faire on March 5th. We hope to see you there!

Again, remember…HAVE FUN! Thanks for stopping by.