Bridal Shows, The Love Hate Relationship
One of my favorite things about being an event and wedding planner is the bridal show experience! I get swept away in the opportunities to network with other industry professionals, and to get new inspirations that will some day help my clients in their planning process. And there is something about the glitz and glamour of the dresses, cakes, decor and linens, lights and music that can easily sweep you away. It’s creativity, beauty, and inspiration at its finest.
Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case for many brides and grooms to be for whom the bridal show can often be overwhelming. There are so many options and decisions to make. Vendors of various sorts and personalities working to sell you their vision for your special day. Many times, a bridal show can leave a new couple more confused and overwhelmed than before they came.
As a consultant, however, these moments are more insightful than flipping through magazines or browsing websites and photos, as I get the chance to really learn the clients’ hearts’ desires. When accompanying a couple to a bridal show, I try to make the process as painless as possible by following these five simple guidelines:
1. Identify your needs- Determine which vendors you still need and what your budgets are for each. If you have not yet booked any vendors, decide on your priorities. Take into account that, generally speaking, some vendors can be booked closer to the event (i.e., baker) than others (i.e., DJ). If you only have the chance to speak with two potential vendors at the show, who will take priority?
2. Prepare to expedite- I accidentally stumbled upon this tip while planning my own wedding in 2012, and it is a staple for every bridal show I’ve attended since. Make labels. Every vendor wants you to leave your information with them for the purpose of following up. While this is great, it is also extremely time consuming and redundant. By creating labels (or business cards) that include your names, email address, and event date, you will save a huge amount of time at each booth or table. Speaking of email addresses, have you made one that is specifically for your wedding correspondence?
3. Pack light- If you’re anything like me, your purse is actually a suitcase in disguise. Ditch that thing on your way into the show. At most, you will need your labels, a camera, and any beauty/personal items that can fit in your pocket. Usually you will receive a bag of goodies upon arrival (cards, flyers, pens, and even magazines). As you move around, your bag will fill up, get heavy, bulky, and awkward. You’ll be saddled with tasty food, drinks, and cake samples (hopefully), and often times will find yourself in tight quarters. Do yourself a favor and scrap the extras.
4. Take it all in, but don’t take it all in- The sights and sounds will be exciting, but often overwhelming at the same time. Stop and smell the roses, but try not to take a nap in the meadow. Everyone will want your time and attention. If you see something you like, stop to ask questions and get some contact information, drop your label (where applicable), snap a few photos (again, where applicable), and keep it moving. That way you can make sure to see all of the vendors on your priority list. You may even have an opportunity to make a second visit to someone who particularly caught your attention by prioritizing.
5. Deals, deals, deals!! – Vendors will often offer deals to potential clients they meet at bridal shows. Be sure to compare the deals when you get home and follow up right away. These deals can often make a vendor who would have otherwise not been considered, a very viable option for your big day. Take advantage of the deals where you can.
I try to move through most things in life with a sense of purpose. Bridal shows are no different. Give these tips a try and hopefully your experiences at bridal shows will become more relaxing, enjoyable, and purposeful.
Until next time Butterflies! Xoxo
Candice
