The D-Tales is attending quite a few shows in the next few months.  We love the opportunity to meet with you and realize that your attendance is crucial to your wedding planning. The “Bridal Show” is an excellent opportunity for you to talk to a wide variety of wedding professionals as well as gather information, prices, and new ideas all in one place. Bridal Shows also create “overwhelming” feelings in many Brides as you can meet over a hundred vendors during the show. The following tips will provide you with helpful answers on how to survive any Bridal Show and make the most out of the experience.

1. HAVE A PLAN! What do you need to see and what vendors are on your To-Do list?  Pick up a Vendor listing or Vendor map when you enter the show. This will help you make notes about those professionals you talked to at the show.
2. Take the time to look at all booths and not just those vendors that you think you need services or products. You will gather many new ideas as well as helpful hints in many cases. Most Bridal Shows run from 3 to 5 hours. Plan to spend a minimum of 1 ½ to 2 ½ hours at the show to ensure your plan is accomplished.
3. Pace yourself. You will only have a short amount of time to talk to the wedding professionals in the areas where you need assistance. Get as much information in writing as possible. Find out when you can schedule a private appointment or consultation.
4. Bring a date book or calendar so you can schedule appointments with specific wedding vendors. Great vendors book early and book fast.  If you have any desire to learn more about their services be sure to schedule an appointment.
5. Wear comfortable shoes for walking. Most facilities only have space to sit and view a fashion show. Keep in mind that you will spend most of your time walking, standing, and talking.
6. Ask key people in your wedding planning process to attend the show with you. It is good to have Mom, your fiancé, and/or you bridesmaids to bounce ideas off of and keep things in perspective. But just know that too many people can cause confusion if they don’t know your plan.  Let your group know what you intend to accomplish.
7. Most Bridal Shows charge admission. Listen to local radio stations and check out newspapers, the internet, or local wedding vendors for possible discount coupons or offers.
8. Car pool to the show if possible. Very few Bridal Shows offer FREE parking.
9. If you must bring children with you to the show ask someone to accompany you who can watch the children as you visit the booths. Note that aisles are small and bringing children or strollers will not be easy on you PLUS if you want to have an in-depth conversation, you might think about finding a babysitter.
10. Bring a roll (or sheet) of pre-addressed name and address labels. Many shows as well as vendors offer FREE registration for door prizes and give-a-ways. Include: Name, Wedding Date, email, budget, number of guests in order to save you time. More >