Wedding Planning! It’s a wonderful, amazing, magical time...that can also be just a little bit on the stressful side. You only get one chance at getting it right so you just have to find the perfect…well, everything.
There are a lot of resources out there to find wedding professionals. A simple Google search will turn up hundreds of potentially qualified professionals. You could talk to friends that have gotten married and see who they used. Maybe you ask for a recommendation in a Facebook group - there really are countless way to find professionals for your big day.
Perhaps my favorite way to meet brides however, is during a bridal show. Bridal shows are great for finding ideas and inspiration, and for meeting professionals face to face. I love “bridal show season” each year because it gives us a chance to meet brides in a more personal environment, as well as a chance to hear all about your vision, and how we can help make your vision come to life. Bridal shows can be a little overwhelming though - to help you get the most out of your bridal show experience, here’s some tips.
1. Clear Your Schedule - Bridal shows have anywhere from 30 to 130 vendors (or more) depending on the size of the show. Take your time to go through and really look and talk to the vendors...when you rush you can forget things you wish you would’ve asked.
2. Leave The Kids At Home - We all love kids, but I know I have a hard time focusing on something when I need to keep one eye on them. Bridal shows are geared towards brides and grooms leaving kids to get bored and restless. Leaving the kids at home means you can go at your own pace and focus on asking your questions.
3. Come Prepared - make yourself a list of what areas of your big day still need attention, and make a point to seek out those vendors. If you’re just starting the planning process, soak it all in. Talk to lots of different vendors to see what they have to offer.
4. Come Prepared - Part II - Do some thinking before you go about the vendors you still need, and what you'll need from them - and prepare some questions for them. Ask them questions that are important to you as you plan your wedding. I love to have conversations with brides that have ideas about what they are looking for - you have my attention, face to face - take advantage of it.
5. Ask About Show Specials - a lot of vendors, myself included, offer deals or coupons during the show. If you've done your homework, and feel confident that you've found the right professional for you - then by all means book them...or at least set-up a meeting with them and make sure they'll honor their coupon until you do.
6. Take note - If you get a good vibe from a particular vendor, make a note on the information they give you. It’ll help you remember who’s who when you start to go through all the information you receive after the show.
7. Have Fun! - Go with your bride's maids, go with your mom - have fun talking, dreaming, and planning. You're wedding is a day that will last in your memory forever - part of the fun is in the journey.
Good luck, and enjoy!