Bridal Shows – Should You Go?

Attending bridal shows is a great way to kick-start your wedding planning.  While they are of the most benefit to  brides in the early stages of planning, brides who already have a good handle on what they want for their wedding can still benefit.

What is a Bridal Show?

A bridal show is where wedding vendors go to showcase their goods or services to both consumers and others within the industry.  The atmosphere is a bit like a carnival where everyone is trying to get you to come over to their booth.  What makes it better than a carnival is you don’t get charged to play a lot of rigged games.  Instead, you can walk away a winner from each and every booth.

Why Should You Attend Bridal Shows?

In most major cities, bridal shows are scheduled a few times each year in order showcase the styles that change with each season.  Yes, you always have the option of reading bridal magazines and visiting wedding websites, but you’ll have the opportunity to see the latest fashions modeled at the shows.  The ability to see how the dress moves as the model walks or to feel the material with your own fingers is far superior to the digital experience.

In addition to wedding dresses, you’ll also have the opportunity to speak with local vendors for virtually every aspect of your wedding ceremony and reception.  Are you still looking for a photographer, DJ or videographer?  You’re in luck because there will be multiple companies available with their product samples, special discounts and giveaways for free services.

My favorite aspect of the bridal show is the free samples caterers and cake designers bring with them.  Though you can always visit them in their place of business, there is nothing like sampling their work after it’s been transported.  Taste may not typically change on transport; however, the quality of the craftsmanship can suffer.  I like seeing what their product looks like at the bridal shows because it tends to be indicative of the quality of appearance you can expect on the day of your wedding.  If a cake looks sickly at a bridal show then it doesn’t matter how tasty it might be because taste will not show up in your pictures.

A final thought to keep in mind if you’re considering attending a bridal show is to register on their website prior to the event.  Often times, you can receive a discount off the price of admission, if not a coupon for free admission.  A quick trip to their site will also ensure you know the schedule so you don’t arrive just after the wedding fashion show you’d hoped to see.