To make the most of these events, here are some tips every bride should know before you go. . . .
1 CREATE A WEDDING EMAIL ADDRESS
You’ll be filling in a LOT of forms and contest ballots! Instead of filling your personal inbox with wedding-specific information, create a new, free email address for your wedding. Most couples use a combination of their names and/or wedding date when choosing a new email address. You can use this email address when you fill in forms to request quotes or enter drawings, and you can also provide it to your wedding guests if they have any wedding-related questions.2 PRE REGISTER
Pre-registering for these events saves you time at check-in, and often a few bucks. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes—you’re going to be doing a lot of walking. Bring a large bag, backpack, or even a carry-on with wheels to store all the brochures and free magazines you’ll be grabbing. Bring your credit card and also some cash. There are usually special sales on cool accessories, and not everyone takes plastic. You’re going to be collecting business cards, so have a designated case or folder in your bridal organizer (BrideWorld attendees get a free wedding planning workbook!) or simply enter the contact info (and notes about your impressions!) right into your smart phone. It’s also helpful for brides who have already selected their gown and bridesmaid dresses to bring a color swatch along—useful when browsing jewelry, tiaras, and other accoutrements. And although you’ll be snacking at the fair, it’s a good idea to eat a small meal before setting out—it will keep you from wolfing down an excessive number of ahi tuna skewers and mini-tacos.3. WEAR COMFORTABLE SHOES
From boutique bridal shows to large wedding convention expos, you will be on your feet for most of the time and generally covering a lot of ground, so wear comfortable shoes to keep your feet happy.4. ARRIVE EARLY
These things can get pretty packed, and the early bird gets the worm. Showing up first will give you the opportunity to talk to vendors one-on-one without having to compete with crowds. Always a bonus! And be sure to eat a little something beforehand, of course—you don’t want to be hangry—but be prepared for lots of delicious samples from caterers and bakers. Leave room for treats!5. GROOMS ARE ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND
A Wedding Trade Show Expo goes by many names including "Bridal Show", "Bride Expo", "Bridal Faire", and "Wedding Show." Most of these names contain the word “bride” and none say “Groom.” For that reason many grooms feel that it is not an event for them, but indeed it is. The groom can help the bride make decisions about wedding services such as invitations and flowers as well as check out "manly" wedding services such as tuxedos, djs, honeymoon destinations and photography.6. BRING LABELS
Most exhibiting companies have enter to win contests or show specials at their booths. By having pre-printed labels with your name, wedding date and contact info you can enter quickly. Printed labels also help you to provide your information to companies that you are interested in.7. TAKE NOTES AND PICTURES
Bridal shows can be overwhelming, especially when you are just staring out. You want to remember who you spoke with and whose services impressed you even if you are not ready to book right away. Most exhibitors are happy for you to take photos of their service, but it is always nice to ask. Remember, if your notes or photos aren't clear, you can always follow up with the bridal show company to ask about their exhibitors. The more information you have, the easier it is to put you in contact with that company8. ENTER TO WIN!
Wedding professionals provide real prizes which are generally geared around weddings (perfect for you) so definitely enter to win! At bridal shows the saying is "few will enter, many will win!"9. KEEP AN OPEN MIND
Have a budget in mind as well as the types of services that you are looking for. Be prepared, however, to see ideas, services and wedding day inspirations that you had not thought of (the wedding industry is an ever-creative bunch always coming up with something exciting and new). Take the time to check out these services to see if they would be something to incorporate in your special day.10. Follow Up
If you connected with a wedding pro you’re interested in hiring, don’t wait for them to reach out to you. Send them a quick email after the show telling them how much you enjoyed meeting them and ask how to move onto the next step, whether that’s simply continuing the conversation, requesting more information, or beginning the hiring process.11. CHECK THE EVENT YOU WANT TO ATTEND
Not all bridal shows are created equal so take the time to research where the show is being held (location is generally a good reflection of a show). Check out the bridal show producer's website, videos and social networking sites to see photos from past events. Feel free to email or call the company producing the show to ask questions. Experienced bridal show producers value the brides attending their events, and are happy to speak with you.12. HAVE FUN!
Have fun with wedding planning. Extend the joy and excitement of your wedding day by enjoying the wedding planning process. Be queen for the day as a V.I.B. – Very Important Bride. attending a bridal show where every exhibitor is interested in knowing about your day including wedding colors, wedding date, engagement and wedding party. Take the time to talk about your plans and enjoy and savor your upcoming day.
