10 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Bridal Show Experience.
Thinking about attending a bridal show? If so, you will be in the presence of many wedding vendors, which can be overwhelming. So how can you make the best of your time there and be on your way to planning your dream wedding? Follow a few of our tips below; they will help you reduce that overwhelming feeling when attending a bridal show.
1. Don’t go right when the event begins. If possible, come a little later on. The booths will most likely be less crowded, and you’ll be able to get more individualized attention.
2. Don’t bring children or come with a large group. Remember, this is YOUR day. If you spend your limited time looking after kids or tracking down members of your group, you will not get the most out of what the show has to offer.
3. Bring Address labels. Many vendors have contests or special offers going on that require some basic information about you. Unless you want to spend half your time writing it down, you might want to consider printing these out beforehand! We recommend including your name, e-mail address, and wedding date.
4. Be prepared. Come with specific questions in mind. You could be talking to your future DJ, Photographer, and or Caterer! The more you learn about the vendors, the better. And being prepared with questions can only help you achieve this.
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5. Find out what vendors will be attending in advance. This will help you make the most out of your time. Think about it… 50 vendors, 5 minutes per booth…that’s already over 4 hours of your time! Researching in advance allows you to devise your best attack plan to find the vendors most matter to you.
6. Bring your calendar to schedule appointments with vendors or to book them on the spot.
7. Bring the following items: A notebook, pen, checkbook, credit card, and a large tote bag. You will be getting a lot of handouts from vendors. Make sure to sort through these handouts right away. If you wait until the next day, you may forget which ones you are really interested in. Consider writing your notes on each different brochure you collect. This way, it will be easier to remember a face to the name when you make follow-up calls.
8. Don’t go on an empty stomach. Cake samples may be available, possibly an appetizer or two, but most bridal shows will not have food or drinks available.
9. Wear comfortable shoes. The last thing you want to be is uncomfortable, so grab your favorite pair of flats or comfy boots, and you’ll be good to go!
10. Proceed with caution if you are going to make any deposits. Be sure to read their terms and conditions so you know what you signed yourself up for. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
BONUS TIP: HAVE FUN! Bridal shows may seem overwhelming initially, but don’t let all the people and the noise get to you! Just gather some information, sign-up for the free contests, and enjoy the fashions brought to the show. It’s all about you, don’t forget that