A few words and tips beforehand:
- First off, a wedding expo is not the New York Bridal Market showing the latest trends, so don't set up your expectations to high. However, expositions are a fantastic opportunity to meet and get an overview of all the local wedding vendors in your area, and most of them offer discount coupons, giveaways and contests.
- Don't expect to find your dream gown as the limited space makes it impossible for bridal salons and designers to show the full range of their collection. Look around to get an idea of the different styles and touch the fabrics, but wait for your appointment at the bridal store, where you can try on dresses in a calm and relaxed atmosphere and where you are the focus of attention.
- It is helpful to write a little list of your must-see favorite vendors before you go to make sure you don't forget to visit them
- Try to have a conversation with the business owners themselves whenever possible, instead of just taking the brochures handed by their hostesses. This is a great way to find out if you and the vendor are on the same page, and it's always nice to chat with friendly people, isn't it?
- Avoid the peak times. I went on a Saturday morning because i know that most people are still busy with their grocery shopping at this particular time and the crowds would show up later that day or on sunday.
Fashion shows attract many visitors and you can make use of that time to visit booths that otherwise are hopelessly crowded ( unless you want to see the show)
- Don't waste your time or get caught up in small talk with pushy vendors if you are not interested in their business. Say a friendly but decisive "No thanks" and move along. Or just say you're already married and enjoy their funny facial expressions.
- Same with brochures, skip the ones you do not need, even if they look pretty. Carrying dozens of heavy bags full of useless magazines is exhausting and will ruin the fun
- Some contests require your email adress. Sign up with a side account or even create a "wedding spam" email adress before you go to the Expo, otherwise your regular email adress will be flooded with newsletters. Do not give out your phone number.
- Carry a small camera with you and take inspiration pictures of nicely decorated tablescapes, floral arrangements, pretty dresses or booths of vendors you like. And bring your own pen to take notes on brochures or business cards about vendors and ideas; all those new impressions can be overwhelming and it's impossible to remember everything and everyone.
