Bridal shows are one of the many rites of passage associated with planning a wedding. They’re a lot of fun, but more importantly, they can be immensely helpful in wedding planning. Here’s why:
Gathering ideas and inspiration. Bridal shows are a great first step for couples who are newly engaged. The entire process of planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but at a bridal show, you get a clear picture of what’s involved. Even if you already have an idea of what you want, or have gotten to the point where most of your wedding is planned, it’s still a good idea to attend a show. You never know what you might see that you hadn’t thought of or some new idea that becomes a must-have for your wedding.
In-person research. Instagram, Pinterest, and bridal magazines are great, but nothing compares to being able to sample in real life. At a bridal show, you can taste cakes, feel wedding dress fabric, and smell flowers, to get the full effect of what you’re looking for to create your magical day.
Meeting vendors. It’s like the speed dating of bridal planning. You’ll still have to make an appointment to go over things, but at the show, you can talk to photographers, caterers, and other wedding vendors to get to know their style and personality. It’s easy to figure out pretty quickly if you get along or if you should keep looking.
Get the Most out of Your Bridal Show Experience
Most shows have an entry fee to get in and will take up a few hours of your day. Make sure you get your time and money’s worth by coming prepared.
- Create a wedding email address. Before you head out to the show, set up a new email account. You’ll be talking with vendors and signing up for mailing lists, and you don’t want all that cluttering up your work or school email. Plus, having a wedding email helps keep you organized throughout the planning process by having all your wedding correspondence in one place.
- Know the date of your wedding, guest count, and budget. You don’t have to have specifics, but a general timeframe and approximate guest count and budget will be helpful when talking with vendors to get an accurate estimate, or even just to see when your favorites are available.
- Make a list of your priorities before the show. Are you still searching for just the right photographer? Looking for cake ideas? You’ll be most productive if you prioritize what you hope to accomplish at the show and work on those goals first.
- Stay organized while at the show. Bring your wedding planner or a folder to keep up with all the pamphlets and brochures you’ll receive.
- Take pictures. It’s hard to remember details when you’re seeing so much at one time. Take pictures of the cakes, dresses, and décor you see that you love, so you can reference it later when talking with vendors and making decisions.
- Enter all the contests! Many vendors offer free giveaways and prizes if you sign up for a mailing list. Take advantage of it, you never know what you might win. Make it easy on yourself by printing up labels with your name, address, and phone number so you don’t have to write that over and over again.
- Dress for comfort. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothes that can get you through the day.
As you plan your wedding, make sure to take time to attend a bridal show or two, or three!
We’re excited to host our Legacy Stables and Events Bridal Show. Mark your calendar for January 21, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., to get started on your wedding planning journey.
Photo Credit: Sarah Sekaly Photography
