Bridal shows and expos can be very fun and exciting, but they can also be very hectic and a bit overwhelming. Check out these tips and tricks to help you survive your bridal show experience with your smile intact!
Choose the Right Time
Most of the larger bridal shows span the entirety of a weekend, to avoid the crowds and ensure that you can have more intimate and in depth conversations with vendors, we suggest trying to make it to the first 2-3 hours of a Saturday or Sunday show, or the final 2-3 hours on the show's last day. These tend to be the least busy times.
Create a Special Email Address
You'll be filling out a ton of forms and contact sheets. To avoid turning your everyday inbox into grand central station, create an email especially for your wedding. Use this address to get quotes from vendors and enter drawings and contests. It may even come in handy to give to your bridal party and guests.
Make it Easy on Yourself
As we stated in the previous tip, you'll be filling out more forms that you do at the car dealership! Most, if not all booths you visit will as you for your information. Instead of writing it each time by hand, print some address label stickers with your information on them. Include the names of the couple, your wedding date, email and phone number. Peel, stick, and thank us later!
Have an Idea What You Want...and Don't Want
At first you may feel a bit like a celebrity on a red carpet with everyone trying to get your attention, but if you're not careful you could end up getting tired, frustrated and overwhelmed pretty quickly. It helps to know what kind of vendors you're looking to hire and how much you're willing to pay for their services. Don't be afraid to say "no, thank you" or "I'm not interested." This will save you and the vendors lots of precious time.
Take Advantage of Discounts
Tons of vendors will be vying for your business and now is the time to snap up a great deal if you're ready to make a decision. Keep in mind though, that most of the discounts are time sensitive and require a commitment. For example, you may see lot's of signs that look like this..."Book today and get a free something-or-other!"
Bring the Right People
Bridal shows can be crowded, and overstimulating, so you may not want to bring your little ones (if you have them)...and maybe not even the groom! There's a lot of talk about the finer details of your day and an almost endless slew of questions to answer. Steer clear of members of your wedding party, entourage, or friend circle who tend to get grouchy or overwhelmed during something like a long day of shopping. Instead, bring people who can help keep you grounded and remind you why you came.
Ask the Right Questions
This is an excellent opportunity to ask several wedding professionals questions and compare notes all at once. We suggest having a couple of questions prepared to ask each different kind of vendor. Bring a little notepad to write down anything important.
Be Prepared
To my fellow Lion King fans...this is much more that the song the evil Scar sang with the hyenas in our favorite childhood film...it's great advice for your upcoming bridal show! Wear comfortable shoes, bring a notepad and pen as well as a bag that's easy to carry to hold all of the swag, merch,pamphlets, flyers and business cards you'll collect. Stash some snacks and a bottle of water to bring in with you too.
Flag Your Favorites
If you're drawn to a particular booth, or make a really strong connection with a certain vendor, put a mark on their business card or literature. That way, you'll remember them when you're ready to contact them for a quote, consultation, or just more information.
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