In laue of our upcoming bridal show ... SUNDAY at the Firley YMCA in Jefferson City, MO, I thought I would give all you brides to be some helpful tips for attending your local wedding shows. It's soo important to attend, not only to meet with local wedding experts, but to see the latest trends. Here is how to get the most out of the show.
Here are The Bridal Solution's TOP TEN TIPS FOR BRIDAL SHOW SUCCESS ...
1. ARRIVE EARLY
The most popular and best vendors are going to be saving the dates for brides who know exactly what they want, and are ready to book. It's pretty much a first come, first serve type basis. You'll want to book at a bridal show, because you will get the best deals, a discount if you book right then and there, as apposed to calling before or after.
2. PRE-REGISTER BEFORE THE SHOW
Save time by registering before the show. Registration only takes a few minutes and will save you from having to fill out a registration form at the show. You'll skip the lines, and be ready to make your way in faster.
3. BRING PEOPLE YOU TRUST
Bringing your friends or close family members to the bridal show will help them feel involved and also give you a chance to bounce ideas back and forth. They will be able to give you advice, or maybe they have used that particular vendor before. Connections, connections, connections!
4. CONTACT LABELS
This is probably the most important tip. BRING ADDRESS LABELS with you phone number attached. Each vendor will most likely have a drawling for prizes at their booths.
Instead of having to fill out multiple forms with your contact info, prepare some electronic labels before the bridal show. Information to include: your name, address, phone number, and email address & wedding date.
5. BRING A PEN AND NOTEBOOK
Bring a notebook and pen so you can take notes. Write down contact info of vendors you talked to or thoughts you have while attending the bridal show. Inside tip: If they give you an estimated quote, you're more likely to get that price if you book with them.
6. BRING A DIGITAL CAMERA
Bringing a simple digital camera will allow you to quickly remember some of the great things you saw at the show. Did you see a great dress during a bridal fashion show? Maybe there is a great cake from a wedding cake designer. Cameras will also help you remember which booth you liked best. Sometimes their cards and info will get lost, but if you see their booth, it will bring back conversations.
7. KNOW YOUR BUDGET
Setting your wedding budget and knowing who is responsible for each thing will help you make decisions and know what you are looking for while attending the show.
8. BRING YOUR CHECKBOOK
Many wedding vendors will offer a special day-of-the-bridal-show-only discount. This will help you save even more money if you are able to find your vendor at bridal show. Remember, some vendors book up quick, and it's an easy way to get it off your plate right away, and gives you the bride a peach of mind.
9. DO YOUR RESEARCH
Know which wedding services you need before the show. Also try to find out which wedding vendors will be exhibiting. This will help you know what questions to ask and allow you to visit those vendors you are particularly interested in. ALSO, if the particular booth does not give references, ask them for them. They will be glad to give them to you ... and if not ... well, you have your answer!
10. MAKE A DAY OF IT
Plan on attending the bridal show for several hours. This will allow you to visit all the vendors and find everything you need. Above all – have fun!
Come visit me SUNDAY, JANUARY 8 FROM 11:00 to 4:00 PM @ THE BRIDAL SPECTACULAR HELD AT THE FIRLEY YMCA OFF OF ELLIS BLVD, JEFFERSON CITY, MO.
Happy Planning!
Natalie Imhoff
thebridalsolution@gmail.com
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