Should You Go to a Bridal Show?

August 25th, 2008

The basic concept of a bridal show is that many of the wedding vendors in a region will get together for an afternoon or a weekend under one roof. This gives brides a chance to meet a lot of different vendors in a short amount of time. Do not think, though, that speaking briefly with someone at a show is a substitute for a formal appointment to evaluate their services. It is more like an opportunity to see who is out there, gather business cards, and make follow up appointments for a later date.

There are certain categories of wedding vendors that you are more likely to meet at bridal shows than others. For instance, many well-established bridal shops will choose not to participate in bridal shows because they figure that most brides already have their gowns by the time they get around to attending shows.

However, there are great reasons to attend the bridal shows. Bridal shows are a great place to find photographers, bakers, limos, entertainment bookers, calligraphers, and others. You will also see small craftspeople showing products that they make. Artisans who create things such as candles, soaps, chocolates and other favors will often gather at bridal shows. You may also find people who make handmade wedding jewelry for gifts (although many brides prefer to search for their wedding jewelry gifts online for a greater variety).

Of course, many brides who attend bridal shows will go just because it is a fun thing to do. That can be reason enough. One word of advice though: unless you have a focused plan, do not expect your fiance to spend a Saturday afternoon wandering through a bridal show. He will be eternally grateful if you take your mother or maid of honor instead!

Filed under Wedding Jewelry, Wedding Planning | Tags: , , | Comment (0)