Top Ten Tips for Navigating Bridal Shows

Bridal Show season is right around the corner!

The show at The Glen Sanders Mansion will be happening on Sunday, January 23rd this year and the show at The Hall of Springs will be happening on Sunday, January 30th 2011.

Bridal Shows are great to attend because they are a chance for brides and grooms to see many vendors in many different specialties all in one place, but they can be overwhelming.  The team here at Aisle Files have put together our Top Ten Tips for navigating Bridal Shows to help you get through them successfully and stress-free!

1 Preregister:

Many shows offer the option of preregistering.  Often times, shows offer a discount for registering in advance, or giveaways.  This can also save you time at the doors.

2 Bring Both Cash and Credit Cards:

It is important to bring cash because often times shows do not accept credit cards at the door.  You usually don’t have to pay for parking, but you want to be prepared for that possibility.  Bring your Credit Card in case you want to book any services or give a deposit to hold a date.  sometimes vendors offer discounts only at the show.

3 Pack Light and Wear Comfortable Shoes:

Don’t bring a heavy bag.  Bring a small bag to separate information in.  A notebook and pen to make notes in, your camera to help you remember ideas you may see, and your calendar to know important dates and make appointments.  You may want to bring ribbon and material swatches of dresses for linen, florists, bakeries, gown shops, etc.  Also, it’s a long day, and you’ll be standing a lot, so don’t wear heels.  Wear comfortable shoes and outfits.

4 Come Early and Make a day of it:

These shows are big! Come early to avoid the mad rush of people and plan to stay all day to see every vendor.  Leave children at home so you can stay and focus on the vendors.  Bring bottled water and snacks, plan in rest breaks.

5 Do Your Research:

Have a plan in mind before you go.  Pick one main vendor you want to book and research them.  Bring a list of questions and don’t be shy to speak with them and ask questions.  Visit every booth and walk up and down aisles to make sure you don’t miss anyone.

6 Take Notes:

Make notes on business cards and mark vendors in a way that you will remember them, such as “Call this one!”

7 Listen Well:

If vendors are busy talking to someone else, stand close and listen, wait until you can ask your questions.  Be Patient!

8 Wear your Sticker:

Many shows offer a bride and groom sticker, wear it! It is hard for vendors to distinguish between everyone and they pay special attention to the bride and groom.

9 Bring Labels:

Many vendors offer drawings for prizes at bridal shows.  Bring labels that have your name and the grooms name, your address, and contact information  so you don’t have to write it out all the time.  Don’t register for everything unless you want to be on everyone’s mailing list.

10 Don’t Make Quick Decisions, Make the Right Ones:

Take a few minutes to listen to what vendors are offering before saying “yay” or “nay”.  You want to make sure you click with your vendors because they will be with you all day.  Choose vendors who listen to what you want and pay attention to your needs.

Planning your wedding should be fun! Relax and Enjoy the Bridal Shows you Attend!