Planning your wedding is such an exciting time, filled with a whirlwind of decisions, from choosing the perfect venue to selecting your dream dress. Northern Virginia, DC and Maryland brides have the advantage on location; the DMV has amazing venues, but that is just the tip of the iceberg. An excellent way to narrow down your other options is to go to a bridal show or expo. We’ll cover some bridal show tips and tricks in this blog. Read on!
One of the best ways to tackle many of your wedding to-dos is by attending bridal shows and expos. These events gather vendors from all corners of the wedding industry, offering a one-stop shop for inspiration, deals, and direct access to the professionals who can help bring your vision to life. But with so much to see and do, bridal shows can also be overwhelming. Fear not! We’re here to guide you with some helpful tips to make your bridal show experience a breeze and ensure you get the most out of the day.
Be Prepared to Book
Perhaps the single most important piece of advice we can offer is this: be ready to book your vendors at the show. Many vendors, including photographers, DJs, and planners, offer exclusive deals and discounts specifically for couples who book their services during the event. These show specials are often the best deals you’ll find, so come prepared with your calendar, a form of payment, and a list of questions to ask vendors whose services you’re seriously considering.
Booking on the spot can save you a significant amount of money, freeing up your budget for other wedding essentials or even that honeymoon upgrade! It’s essential, of course, to do some preliminary research on vendors you’re interested in before the show. But if a vendor checks all your boxes and is offering a fantastic deal, don’t hesitate!
Plan Ahead
Before you even step foot in the expo hall, take some time to plan your day.
- Review the vendor list: Most bridal shows will have a list of participating vendors on their website. Browse through it and identify those you’re most interested in visiting.
- Make a list of priorities: What are your most pressing wedding needs? Are you still searching for a venue? Need to find a florist? Prioritize your list so you can make the most efficient use of your time.
- Create a wedding email address: This is a great way to keep all your wedding-related correspondence organized and separate from your personal email.
Dress Comfortably and Bring Essentials
You’ll likely be on your feet for several hours, walking from booth to booth. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing that allow you to move freely. It’s also a good idea to bring:
- A tote bag: You’ll collect brochures, samples, and maybe even some swag!
- A notebook and pen: To jot down notes, vendor contact information, and any ideas that spark your interest.
- Pre-printed labels: If you create a wedding email address, have some labels printed with your name, email address, and wedding date. This will save you time when filling out forms at vendor booths.
- Snacks and water: Staying hydrated and fueled will help you maintain your energy throughout the day.
Don’t Be Shy – Engage with Vendors
The vendors at bridal shows are there to help you! Don’t hesitate to ask questions, share your vision, and get their expert advice. They’ve seen it all and can offer valuable insights and suggestions you might not have considered. This is your chance to connect with potential vendors on a personal level and see if they’re a good fit for your wedding style and personality.
Have Fun and Enjoy the Day!
Planning a wedding can be stressful, but remember that it’s also a joyous occasion. Bridal shows are meant to be fun and inspiring. Bring your fiancé, your mom, your bridesmaids, or your best friend, and enjoy the experience together. Sample the cakes, admire the gorgeous floral arrangements, and start dreaming about your big day! The energy of a show is uplifting and exciting, make sure to soak it all in!
Mark Your Calendar: The Great Bridal Expo!
Speaking of big days, don’t miss the opportunity to meet the team from Complete Weddings + Events at The Great Bridal Expo on January 26th at the Hilton Mark Center in Alexandria, VA! We’ll be there to answer all your questions about our photography, videography, DJ, photo booth, and coordination services. One exhibitor’s booth visit and you can inquire about or book up to 5 services or more with just one business. And yes, we’ll be offering exclusive show specials for couples who book with us at the event!
Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and choosing the right vendors is crucial. We at Complete Weddings + Events are committed to making your wedding day unforgettable, and we can’t wait to meet you!
