You may have experienced it already yourself, but for many brides, bridal shows can be overwhelming. You’ll be asked “When is your wedding date?” over and over again. So at this point, you’ve successfully selected the show to attend and you have a game plan for what to do before and after the show to get the most out of it. Now let’s talk about how to make it through the day!

image by Perspectives Photography

On Show Day:

~Wear comfortable shoes. Walking in circles for hours can be rather tiring in flats, let alone stilettos. And there are often there are not enough seats to rest your feet, even during the fashion show.

~Ditch the preload stuff. You will likely receive a welcome package that is stuffed with heavy magazines and by the time you leave the show- you can have 10 pounds of samples and literature in your bag! We talked about it before, but avoid bringing home useless information. You will receive a bag full of vendor’s pamphlets when you arrive, in addition to magazines and checklists. Before you start through the show, take a couple minutes, run to the bathroom and riffle through the pre-packed goodie bag. Toss any vendor card you know right away you won’t need, i.e. cake company pamphlets if you have favorite cake company in mind already, or DJ sway, if you know you are in love with the DJ your girlfriend had at her wedding. This will lighten your load immensely. THEN you can go through the show and talk to all sorts of vendors to get one on one connections.

~Listen to Exhibitors. These are the professionals that have committed their time and resources to meet you and they know helpful tips and may have money-saving options to offer you. It gets difficult towards the end, since you’ve already talked to soo many vendor, but nuggets of wisdom come with time!

~Enter Drawings and Contests. They are free and who knows? Your may even win something fantastic. Remember your labels – here’s where they come in handy! Slap on one of your pre-printed labels to save your hand from cramping. Vendors will contact you after the show from the information you’ve provided. So you will create your own fabulous set of resources in case you unexpectedly need some information about companies and services. Most wedding professionals will also send valuable coupons and tips in their emails as well.

~Be Honest. If you know that you would never hire the services of a specific company- don’t spend much time talking to them.

~Be Assertive. Some exhibitors can be rather aggressive, which is unfortunate for the other vendors who are not, as brides often begin to feel cornered by vendors. Remember, we are really here to help you plan an ultra fabulous wedding day. But, if you feel cornered by someone- you can politely and firmly say that you are not interested and move on.

~Be Prepared. Certain companies may offer One Day Only Show Specials, which require a deposit at the show. This is common with Tuxedo rental companies. Often they have a very attractive offer that could end up saving you considerable money. HOWEVER, DON’T commit to any company until you have circled the entire hall and checked out the competition. It is not a bad idea to have your check book, should you want to take advantage of a Show Special.

~Bring a Camera. Take pictures of the Fashion Show while looking at bridal gowns or bridesmaids dresses. If your phone is capable of video, you might also consider recording part of the Bridal Fashion Show as well. IMPORTANT: make sure you ask permission before taking any pictures. Bakers, Florists, Invitation Specialist and Event Designers frown on brides snapping pictures of their work to take to a competitor. Be courteous and remember that their creativity is what makes them unique and pay their bills!

~Bring a Journal. A Bridal Show is a wedding planning goldmine. You may see a bridesmaid dress that you like, hear a great song to include in your reception, see a unique color scheme or great event design ideas to decorate your tables. Be on the lookout for things that catch your eye and make a note of it so that you won’t forget.

~Who to bring? You want to bring friends and family members who are as pumped about the details as you are. If your groom is not too enthusiastic- leave him at home and bring your Maid of Honor instead. Your future Mother-in-law would probably love an invitation and often Bridesmaids have more fun than the bride! Your wedding planner and event designer is also a great resource to have at the show, she can help you sort the FAB and not-so-Fab vendor as well as see inspirations you like to incorporate into your event! If possible- do not bring children. Children are generally welcome at the shows but with all the breakables and crowds, you will have more freedom if you can focus on the information rather than on babysitting. If you are shy- try to bring someone who is more outgoing and will engage other brides and vendors.

~Ask Questions. You have access to hundreds of wedding professionals. Take advantage of their knowledge. Most will be generous with their time and ideas.

HINT: During the fashion show, the aisles of the hall may be deserted. This is a great time to engage professionals as they will have a bit more time to help you.

Plan to spend several hours wandering and have fun! It is a great way to do weeks of research in a few hours. Look for us at the next Bridal Show!