Bridal Shows: What to Do

By Tresa Erickson

Congratulations on your recent engagement. Along with setting a date, you will probably want to start collecting ideas for your wedding. One of the best ways to
do this is to go to a bridal show.

Bridal shows are held throughout the year in cities across the country. While some are huge, others are quite small. No matter what scale of bridal show you
attend, make sure you get the most from it by following these tips.

First, register before the show, if at all possible. In many cases, doing so will get you free admission. Some vendors may also send you money-saving offers for bridal
products and services.

Create preprinted labels on your computer to use on forms for vendor giveaways. Include your name, address, telephone number, e-mail address and wedding
date on the labels. By using these, you will save time filling out forms and enable vendors to read your forms with ease. Before you slap a label on every entry form
you see, however, make sure that you understand the terms involved in the giveaway. In some cases, you may have to sign up for the vendor's services or do something else to receive the prize.

Come to the bridal show prepared. Bring a pad and pen, and if you see something you like, write it down. Be detailed in your description. If you don't, chances
are you won't remember what you were talking about when you read the list later. Bring along a bag, too, for all of the stuff that you will find at the vendor's booths.
Grab everything you can-you can sort it out later.

Meet only with the vendors needed. If you already have a photographer lined up for your wedding, skip the photography booths. Don't be afraid to ask questions.
The more you know about a vendor, the easier you will be able to tell if they are right for you. Should a vendor be too busy at the moment to speak with you,
set up a time to meet with them later at the show. If you come upon a vendor that you are seriously interested in, jot down their name and make an appointment
with them for another time. Do not sign up for their services on the spot. You need time to comparison shop.

These are just some of the tips you should follow to make your bridal show experience valuable. Small or large, bridal shows can be very informative and a lot of
fun. Get out there and attend a few. You'll come home with more ideas than you know what to do with.