Congratulations on your engagement. Whether you're having a long or short engagement, you've probably heard about several wedding shows and are making decisions on what ones you should attend, etc.
As a former bride and wedding planner, I know that they can be tons of fun and make for a fun night for the bridesmaids to join along. I have a lot of brides ask me questions about wedding shows/expos like:
- Can they help me find vendors I need?
- If I find a vendor, will you work with them to execute my vision?
- How many shows do you suggest I go to?
I'll answer these questions first before I go on:
- Yes, going to bridal expo's and wedding shows definitely help if you're looking for vendors. The point of these shows and expo's is to help gather vendors and keep them under one roof so that it's easy for brides' and groom's to navigate and find ones that are suited to meet their needs.
- As a wedding planner, if there is a particular vendor's work that you love and absolutely have to have them as part of your wedding, I will make it happen. My job is to execute and plan your wedding and that is exactly what I will do.
- Of course, you can go to as many shows as you like, however; I would say pick two to go to. That way, you get to find vendors that you need and even try to win some prizes while you're at it.
Here are some tips to make your wedding show journey a fun and successful one:
1. Do some research
See what vendors they have lined up - if there's a vendor that you're wanting to book, take this opportunity to meet with them in person and ask them questions. Bring a list of questions your want to ask each of your vendors - in the event you really like a vendor, ask them to schedule a consultation for you to discuss details further. Ask them what their availability is for your wedding date and see if they have a package that fits within your budget.
2. Common Courtesy
At wedding shows and bridal expo's it's understood that if you give out your contact information (name and email address), you are giving them permission to contact you regarding services or products they offer. Whether you are undecided or are no longer in need of their services, if they connect with you after the show, do let them know. We're professionals and we're also human so we appreciate it when clients or potential clients let us know if they are not in need of our services. This way, you will also be more selective as to who you give out your information to.
3. Too many cooks ...
You know the rest of that saying - so needless to say, don't bring the whole family. Bring a few people and let them know ahead of time what it is that you are looking to accomplish by attending this show. Also make sure you leave Sally behind who's always wandering off and doing her own thing. This is about you and it is important that everyone you bring is on the same page.
4. The Rule of 3
If you have most of your vendors already picked then you don't need to go through those vendor booths. If you're recently engaged then you need to find most all of your vendors, so pick 3 (I'd suggest venue, caterer and a photo/videographer) to connect with. If you already have those three then work your way down to your make up artist, florist etc. Working on strict vendor list will make it less overwhelming for you to peruse through.
Of course take lots of pictures, enjoy the experience with your friends and/or family (those you brought with you) and most importantly - have FUN!
Speaking of Wedding Shows - make sure you check out the Creme de la Creme Show happening this November! Happy Planning!
