Happy Spring! Spring marks a new season that resembles new life, growth, renewal, bunnies that lay eggs, and weddings. It is one of my favorite seasons. Mainly because one of the things that happen around this time are wedding shows or at least the start of wedding shows.
My guess is that most guys get sucked into the holiday season celebrations and pop “the question”…near Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years, and Valentines. There is a good 5-6 months of bride-to-be’s chomping at the bit to start their wedding planning. The reality of the wedding finally hits the bride as soon as the weather warms especially after many nights reading bridal magazines on cold winter days.
For me, Spring means, I grab my nearest bride and head to these wedding shows to collect swag and to gather new wedding trends. I enjoy heading to these shows because I like watching the many happy and glossy-eyed people look for all the little things to make their special day memorable.
Here are my tips before you head out to the show(s):
- Know your budget. There will be a lot of really cool things that will appeal to you and your future spouse. Knowing your budget will help limit the add-ons.
- Wear comfortable shoes. Expect to do a lot of walking and standing while you meet with vendors.
- Bring a backpack. There are some shows that give out a lot of swag but don’t give you a bag. Remember bag for your swag.
- Bring mailing labels. I’m sure you might have some mailing labels that you forgot to use for Christmas or ones that have been collecting dust. I recommend using these labels when you sign up with different vendors. It’s faster to place a label than write your information and the vendors will appreciate the fact they don’t have to convert your handwriting.
- Eat before you go. While most shows are in hotels, you might want to eat ahead of time in order to get the most and reach every vendor. Also bring a bottle of water.
- Prepare to spend your whole afternoon. Really good shows know how to keep you there. Most will have a dress show, presentations, raffles, and a really good selection of vendors.
- Talk to vendors. While it might be easy to grab a brochure, take some time to talk to the vendors. You’ll get a little more information from them than what’s on the paper. You never know if they have a special deal.
- Preorder tickets. If the show you want to attend has an entrance fee, you might want to preorder. Most shows that I’ve seen give you $2 off if you preorder.
- Bring a notebook and pen. Write down the ideas you see as you see them. Bring a camera too however ask the vendors if it’s okay to take pictures.
- Have fun!
