Bridal shows can be fun. A show may be your first experience meeting vendors and seeing what they offer. Bridal shows can also be overwhelming. There will be many booths and vendors vying for your attention. You want to meet with as many as possible so that you can see their offerings, but where do you start? There are brides and people everywhere, and the best thing to do is have a game plan.
The first thing to keep in mind is that you are there to gain an exposure to the different vendors in your area, get a feel for their personality, and try to determine if you feel a connection with them. Remember, you don’t have to hire all of your vendors while attending the show. It is just an opportunity to meet vendors and determine if you see them working with you on your wedding day.
At each booth the vendors will give you their sales pitch. Listen to what they say and ask questions. If you are interested in the vendor, take their information. You can look at their website when you get home, search for vendor reviews from other brides, and compare the competition. If you are not interested in the vendor after an initial conversation, thank the person and move on. There is a lot to see and you don’t want to waste your time.
Many vendors will be offering prizes at their booths in exchange for your contact information. If you are interested in participating you will fill out an entry form. You will be filling out similar forms at every booth offering a prize, so here’s a key tip – bring sticky labels with your information already filled out. It will allow you to go to each booth quickly and easily. On your label include your name, wedding date, phone number, home address and email address.
You will also want to watch the flow of the event. As different scheduled activities take place, you may see an opportunity to meet with a vendor that was previously swarmed by brides. It’s a better use of your time, then standing and waiting in line.
Speaking of standing, this is not the time for high heels. You will be on your feet and walking most of the time, so wear comfortable shoes. It will make the day more enjoyable.
My last bit of advice is to have fun. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet the vendors in your area and hopefully connect with those who will work with you and bring about the vision you have for your wedding day.
