As a busy bride one of the best planning resources available to you are bride
expos. Where else can you cruise aisle upon aisle of wedding products, get
inspired with new ideas, and meet industry professionals for your wedding? The
gathering of all this information under one roof, makes bride expos a time and
cost effective way to comparison shop, see samples of a vendors’ work, and get
into the wedding groove.
How To Work the Expo
Everyone bottlenecks at the front entrance of the bridal show. Head for the back
and work your way towards the front.
Tip #1: Check the schedule for fashion show times and hit the booths
during these events, when the floor is less crowded.
After you make your way through the booths, you can head for the next fashion
show early and get a great seat.
Tip #2: Visit the booths at the end of the show, when the crowds
typically die down.
Have a plan of attack. If you are just beginning your planning, focus on the
areas that require attention now such as, locations, dresses, and photographers.
Of course, gather other information, but don’t dwell upon your honeymoon when
you don’t even know where you are getting married. Don’t forget, you can attend
other bridal shows as you progress in your planning-you don’t have to do it all
now.
Take advantage of show specials, discounts, and promotions, but do not be
pressured into anything. Most deposits are non-refundable. If you decide to
“book” someone at the show, make sure you have walked the entire floor and you
are truly getting what you want.
Be sure to attend the fashion shows to get a preview of the latest styles for
the bride and wedding party.
Don’t forget about other special events, like wedding planning seminars or
demonstrations, that allow you time to ask an expert your special wedding
planning questions and learn new ideas from others questions.
Bride expos are held year round. Find dates and locations for shows in your area
online at www.brideworld.com.
Be A Smart Bride
Be cautious and mindful when giving out your phone number. You should not put a
phone number on a random drawing. It is OK to give your number to someone whom
you plan to have direct contact with (for example, a wedding entertainer you
meet at the show and want to make an appointment with). Additionally, do not
give out your work phone or cell phone, unless you are OK with receiving
wedding-related calls.
It is OK to give out your mailing address and email address. However, to
maintain some peace-of-mind, it is a good idea to create a temporary email
address specifically related to your wedding. For example [email protected].
You maintain the integrity of your private email address, and can abandon the
wedding-only email address following the wedding. Remember most free email
services like yahoo or hotmail maintain your address only if you visit on a
regular basis.
Below Are More Tips For Bridal Expos
1. Pre-register for the expo. Pre-registration typically offers a discounted
admission, a chance to skip the long lines at the entrance, and pre printed
labels to give to vendors (for contests and mailings).
2. Plan to spend at least a few hours at the show. Allot enough time to
experience all the bridal show has to offer.
3. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes.
4. Bring a friend or two (about 30% of grooms attend).
5. Bring a sturdy tote bag for the information collected.
6. Bring your personal appointment book, notebook, and writing pen. A great way
to keep track of information is to write notes directly on a vendor’s material
(It helps you keep it all straight).
7. Bring a checkbook or credit card just in case there is something there you
have to have, or someone you have to hire on the spot.
Reference: BrideWorld