As a bride, nothing is more intimidating than entering a room full of wedding vendors offering you different products and services. Where do you start? What do you ask? Who do you choose?
To maximize your vendor experience, it's best to plan ahead. We know just how stressful these events can be, especially if you are not organized. Set goals (know you probably won't plan your entire wedding in that one day), bring the right stuff (and people), do your research before you step foot into that room...and most importantly, pack your patience! Here's some things to consider to make the most of your bridal show experience. Remember, many of these events only come around once a year!
To maximize your vendor experience, it's best to plan ahead. We know just how stressful these events can be, especially if you are not organized. Set goals (know you probably won't plan your entire wedding in that one day), bring the right stuff (and people), do your research before you step foot into that room...and most importantly, pack your patience! Here's some things to consider to make the most of your bridal show experience. Remember, many of these events only come around once a year!
1. Get organized.
- Create an email account - Designate a special communication for all things wedding planning. You can enter contests and sign up for promotions with the email address - and keep your separate accounts spam free!
- Register early - Don't be a last-minute bride; mark your calendar now with all the upcoming wedding events and set aside some time to pre-register. Many shows offer a discount for early registrants. You will feel so much more prepared once at the show!
- Bring printed labels - This will save you so much time - and a cramped hand! Have your contact information literally in the palm of your hand. Here's an example of what to have on your labels:
2. Do your research. Look on the show or organization's website to see what vendors will be at the event. There may be some you can cross off your list immediately and others you plan to chat with longer. Researching certain wedding vendors before the show will also help you determine what questions you would like to ask. There's even some reward in your research - wedding vendors often post about certain deals, contests or promotions before the event!
3. Have a game plan.
- Determine your priorities - Plan out what wedding services you need and set your budget before the show. It's so much easier to make decisions when you know what you are working with. Some vendors will be able to work with your budget and others will not.
- Manage your time - Invite a trusty family member or bridesmaid to go to the bridal event with you. They can help you map out your vendor quest and keep things on track.
- Ask for advice - Those vendors that meet your needs can refer you to other professionals whom they trust or work with. Vendors have connections that could benefit you!
4. Follow up. Many brides leave the show with a bag full of contacts but not much else. Developing a relationship with your potential wedding vendor is so important. Follow up on the conversations you had at the event. Ask questions you forgot to ask. Visit their website + social media and sign up for newsletters. See reviews of the vendors on sites like Wedding Wire.
What to bring to the bridal show/event:
- Notebook and pen
- Comfy shoes (Flats can be dressy and practical!)
- Tote or heavy duty bag
- Color swatches (Order ahead of time, if needed.)
- Camera
- Snacks (It could be hours before you eat again!)
- Someone you trust
Upcoming Events
Leslie Cervantez Photography Open House
January 16th, 6-9pm; Grand opening of their new studio at 18 Augusta Pines Dr. Suite 143E Spring, 77389
(713) 452-0009 or [email protected] for more information
Bridal Extravaganza - Houston
January 11-12 / Sat. 10-5pm, Sun. 11-5pm at the George R Brown Convention Center
(281) 340-7777 or [email protected] for more information
Venue Toast and Tour (sponsored by Woodlands Bride)
February 9th, 1-5:15pm; You + a guest will travel in luxurious accommodations to tour 3 different venues in Montgomery County: Heather's Glen, April Sound Country Club and Hodge Podge Lodge. Mingle with wedding professionals in a laid-back, party atmosphere. Register early and receive a VIP gift bag. Over $1,000 in giveaways! Get your tickets here.
Dream Weddings Bridal Show , The Woodlands
February 23rd, 12-5pm at The Marriott Hotel & Convention Center
Over 100 vendors will be there (including a bunch of our own premier vendors). Register early and receive a discount!
January 16th, 6-9pm; Grand opening of their new studio at 18 Augusta Pines Dr. Suite 143E Spring, 77389
(713) 452-0009 or [email protected] for more information
Bridal Extravaganza - Houston
January 11-12 / Sat. 10-5pm, Sun. 11-5pm at the George R Brown Convention Center
(281) 340-7777 or [email protected] for more information
Venue Toast and Tour (sponsored by Woodlands Bride)
February 9th, 1-5:15pm; You + a guest will travel in luxurious accommodations to tour 3 different venues in Montgomery County: Heather's Glen, April Sound Country Club and Hodge Podge Lodge. Mingle with wedding professionals in a laid-back, party atmosphere. Register early and receive a VIP gift bag. Over $1,000 in giveaways! Get your tickets here.
Dream Weddings Bridal Show , The Woodlands
February 23rd, 12-5pm at The Marriott Hotel & Convention Center
Over 100 vendors will be there (including a bunch of our own premier vendors). Register early and receive a discount!