[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Bridal expos, bridal shows, bridal extravaganzas… Each one is fun but what matters is how much wedding planning you can get done if you attend. Don’t go in blindly, though. Follow these simple tips to make your experience more enjoyable and efficient.
HAVE A PLAN
Know what you need (what’s left on your checklist) and what you don’t. That will determine how you spend your time and who you talk to. This is especially important if you’re attending a show after you’ve done a big part of your wedding planning. You don’t want to waste time talking to vendors or visiting booths that offer items or services you’ve already chosen. Try to visit the booths first that offer items or services that you need.
With checklist in hand, look at a map of the expo to plot where the vendors you need to talk to will be. Walk that path and talk to those vendors. (Your feet will thank you for walking with purpose by the end of the day.)
DRESS COMFORTABLY
You’ll be having fun on your feet all day. Do yourself a favor and wear comfortable shoes. If there is a coat check and you’re wearing a coat, check it so you have one less thing to carry with you through the expo center.
BRING A TOTE OR BACKPACK
If you’ve never been to a tradeshow before, you have no idea the amount of swag and marketing collateral you’ll walk away with. First rule: you don’t have to accept every freebie they offer. You may get a tote at the expo, but you may not. It’s easier to stick a tote inside a tote than it is to carry all of the information you’ll receive in your bare hands. (Pro tip: stick a bottle of water in the bag.)
USE A FILING SYSTEM
Okay, so this tip isn’t for everyone, but somebody will be glad it’s here. If you can craft a way to file the information you get as you receive it (florists, photographers, entertainment, food, etc.), do so. You could use a multiple bag system or an expanding letter file. Whatever you use will save you some sorting time when you get home.
GET THERE EARLY (OR RIGHT ON TIME)
Many vendors (Blaine Stone Lodge included) offer deals and discounts to brides and couples willing to book the date on the spot. The earlier you reach the booths, the more likely it will be that your wedding date is open on their schedule.
BE SELECTIVE ABOUT WHO GOES WITH YOU
Some brides feel obligated to bring all of their family members and the entire wedding party with them to a bridal expo. While the inclusivity is a nice gesture, it’s simply impractical in this situation. It bogs down the mobility and the decision-making process too much to be worth it. Consider bringing your mom (or someone who can make the financial decisions about spending), your maid of honor, and/or your groom.
MAKE LABELS (HUGE TIME SAVER)
Vendors will request your contact information and the date of your wedding. Rather than writing down the same information 20+ times, take a sheet of mailing labels with the information printed on them. Include your name, phone number, email address, wedding date, and venue if you know it.
BRING A COLOR SWATCH (IF YOU HAVE ONE)
If you’ve already chosen your dress, bridesmaid dresses, or tuxedo colors, bring a swatch of fabric with you for a reference. It eliminates a lot of guess work and mismatching. You will appear super organized and everyone will be really impressed!
BRING YOUR CALENDAR
You may want to schedule a meeting with a particular vendor outside of the bridal show booth. To prevent double-booking, have your calendar available.
BRING MONEY
It’s surprising how many wedding vendors still don’t have ways to process credit cards. Bring cash in case you need put down a deposit on the spot (usually required to receive a discount). Bring the credit card, too, just in case.
ASK QUESTIONS
You’re the customer. This is your chance at a face-to-face interview with someone who can answer all of your questions. Take advantage of the opportunity. Ask for details. All of the details. The more you learn now the less you’ll need to ask later.
TAKE NOTES
Don’t assume you will remember all of your conversations or who you had them with. Make notes about the details you learn (see previous tip) on anything a vendor gives you (business card, brochure, etc.) so you’ll have it as a reference when you get home.
RECOGNIZE WHEN YOU’VE HAD ENOUGH
There comes a point when your mind and body have had enough. Acknowledge when you’ve reached that point and head home. It will potentially prevent emotional breakdowns and regrettable decisions.
We hope you’ve found this list helpful. Blaine Stone Lodge will be at the Dallas Bridal Show on January 28-29, 2017. If you’re looking for a venue with rustic beauty in a country setting near Dallas/Fort Worth, check us out. We’ll be in booth #651.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]