We're Going to a Wedding Show!
What is a Wedding Show?
A wedding show or bridal expo is a trade show of sorts especially set up to introduce brides and engaged couples to the world of wedding services. It is a one-stop shop to find wedding reception venues and many of the support services needed to plan a wedding
If the show is hosted by a wedding venue such as a resort, hotel or banquet facility, then the service providers (aka vendors) on display will likely be those specifically associated with that venue. If you have decided that this host facility is where you will have your reception, then the vendors here will be from the approved vendor list. There may be one in-house caterer/baker or several caterers from a pre-approved list for that facility
If the show is at a convention center or other “neutral ground” facility, then the vendors may include competing reception venues, caterers, bakers, etc. Still, remember as you pick up literature, ask questions and taste delectable samples, that many reception venues have a specific list of approved vendors. For example, your reception venue may not accept an outside caterer or baker, so if you have already booked your reception, make sure you know these restrictions.
What awaits the visitor inside varies in size and the number of displays according to the hosting venue of the particular show. You will be able to meet wedding planners, musicians and florists, officiates and ministers, linen rental and other rental representatives, gown shop proprietors with sample gowns, makeup and spa treatment providers, bridal magazines, registries and more. You will be able to sample the food from one or more caterers and taste wedding cakes and other dessert treats from one or more bakers. All these vendors in one place! What's more, the participating musicians will often perform wedding appropriate musical selections to really enhance the mood.
Sometimes, especially at a larger show, there may be balloon drops for prize drawings, fashion shows including the latest bridal gowns and attendant-wear, or sample wedding dresses at cut-rate prices. A smaller show may not have all of this but will be more intimate with fewer booths to overwhelm the senses. Almost every wedding show will have a prize drawing of some type for treats provided by the show’s vendors or a honeymoon trip provided by a sponsoring travel agency.
You should attend a few wedding shows if you have the time. They are often held at hotels, event halls or convention centers and cost little or no admission. To find a show near you, do a search engine search with your favorite search engine such as yahoo or google for "wedding show <my city> ".
No matter what – prepare to have fun and be launched into one of the most exciting periods of your life!
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