Fall is a great time to start planning if you are getting married next summer. And there seems to be bridal shows everywhere to help you kickstart that process. If you are in the Red Deer area, I am headed to the Welcome Wagon Bridal Showcase at the Capri Centre (3310 - 50th Avenue) this Sunday, September 18th from noon- 4pm. You can find all the information and register for this event at www.welcomewagon.com.
If you are in the Calgary area, I will be at the Bliss Bridal Fair next weekend at the Coast Plaza hotel, Sunday September 25 from 10am-4pm. You can find all the details on this show at www.blissweddingfair.ca. Make sure to pre-register in order to avoid having to pay at the door.
If you are newly engaged and have never attended a bridal show before, here are a few tips for getting the most out of it (especially if you are going to brave one of the very large shows!!).
- Print a sheet of labels with your name, contact info and wedding date. Most booths with have a draw, so bringing labels will speed up the process and help you avoid having to write out your name over and over again.
- Do some research before you go and know what your purpose is. If you determine what kind of services and products you are looking for right now, you can start with those booths to make sure you get all the information you need.
- Bring one person with you that can help you make some decisions, but only one. Too many opinions and bodies can be overwhelming and confusing.
- If there is a specific vendor you want to chat with more and you already have your wedding dress, go talk to them during the fashion show. It will be much quieter and you will get some one-on-one attention.
- Bring your daytimer. If you are serious about a service, many vendors will want to book an appointment for a consultation on the spot, and may even offer you an incentive to do so.
- If you are making a decision on a large investment like your venue or caterer, be careful about putting a deposit down on the spot. Make sure you think about it and are not just getting caught up in the excitement.
- Try to relax and take it all in. This is all part of the wedding planning fun!
