Dream Wedding Show
Sunday, March 9th, 2008

Cal Expo
1600 Exposition Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95815
Website: www.dreamweddingshow.com

Top Ten Tips for Getting the Most Out of a Bridal Shows & Fairs

There is one thing a bride never has enough of — time. From the moment you get engaged until the day you get married, you will probably log hundreds of hours and endless miles. Take heart. There is a great time saver that allows you to shop for everything you need in one place, and at very little cost — it’s the bridal show. Good bridal shows have a variety of bridal vendors who exhibit many of the services and products you need to create a perfect wedding.

Sacramento Bride and Groom participates in several bridal shows in the greater Sacramento Valley each year, and one thing is certain: at these shows, the brides-to-be are the guests of honor and the total focus of the vendors. They are eager to provide you with free samples, brochures, advice and discounts, just for attending.

The following are Sacramento Bride and Groom’s top 10 tips for making a bridal show an enjoyable and successful experience.

1 - Wear comfortable shoes and loose clothing.
You’ll be walking a lot and most likely carrying a big bag filled with goodies and useful information.

2 - Bring a buddy.
your mother, your maid of honor, a bridesmaid or, better yet, your fiancé. It’s to your advantage to include him in as much as possible from the beginning. He is also perfect for carrying the several pounds of information and samples you will gather.

3 - Bring pre-printed labels or a rubber stamp with your name, address, telephone number, wedding date and your fiancé’s name.
These can be computer labels you print yourself or regular address labels to which you add the date and the groom’s name. Having labels or a stamp eliminates the need to write this information every time you register with a vendor to win prizes or to receive information.

4 - Free bags.
As soon as possible, find a vendor who provides them. You’ll need one to carry goodies.

5 - Register for everything.
Vendors give away valuable gifts and services. You can’t win if you don’t sign up.

6 - Take advantage of discount coupons.
Many vendors provide special discounts for brides.

7 - Take your time.
A few extra minutes spent with wedding professionals at the show can save hours on the telephone later.

8 - Talk to other brides-to-be.
They might have tips you haven’t thought of.

9 - Attend at least one fashion show (it’s probably the only time you and your companion will have an opportunity to sit down).
The fashion shows usually are choreographed beautifully, and they can be the highlight of the day. Bring a pen or pencil to make notes on the program in case you see a bride gown you like.

10 - After the show, treat your show buddy to lunch or dinner.
At the very least, you’ll both need a latté or a mocha. Your friend will appreciate your thoughtfulness.

Remember, not all shows are created equal. Very large shows with too many brides can be overwhelming and a deterrent to having adequate time to talk with vendors. On the other hand, shows that are too small may not provide enough variety in the services you need to plan your wedding.

Last, but not least, keep an open mind, have fun and don’t forget those tennis shoes.