Whether you’re newly engaged or have been planning your wedding for a while now, one thing that you’re likely to do is visit wedding shows. This all sounds like fun and generally speaking it is. The one thing that I’ve heard from brides however, is that it can get overwhelming. They go to every show there is an they become wedding show’d out. They feel inundated with information and end up forgetting most of it and the other part, is misremembered which results in frustration and stress.

Here are some tips for helping you navigate your way through these wedding shows and helping you get more organized.

  1. Have the details for your wedding hashed out. Make sure you know how many bridesmaids, groomsmen, colors and of course the date. This will help you have better conversations with the vendors instead of flying blind.
  2. Bring someone with you. Whether it be your groom, your bridesmaids, your mom or a couple of trusted friends. Make sure that you stick together at the event. Some people think “divide and conquer” is the way to go but honestly if you do this, one may miss some important information that you are really looking for.
  3. Make labels with your contact information. A lot of these shows have giveaways you won’t wanna miss and email lists that will help you gather even more information to help you plan your wedding. Instead of having to write this all out every time, you can just place your label on their form. Saves time and also ensures that your information is legible so the vendor can contact you.
  4. Take along a notebook and a pen. You’ll want to take notes on the vendors you want to follow up with as well as some information they may have given you that you hadn’t thought of.
  5. Have questions ready for each vendor. Just don’t ask how much. Vendors need much more information from you before they are able to give you a price. You’re also going to need more information from them so you can adequately compare vendors and finally choose which one is best for you. Choosing only based off of price simply ensures your paying less. It doesn’t speak to the quality of work, their experience or if you’re a good fit. Find out what they offer, if they’re available on your wedding date and save the more intricate questions for the consultation. Remember, all of these vendors need to get their information and brochures to as many couples as they can. You want to be considerate of their time too.
  6. Wear comfortable shoes. Since these shows are walking events, you’re going to spend most of your time on your feet. You don’t want to be caught there 2 hours in and feel like you can’t take another step and still haven’t been able to speak to a vendor you really want to speak with.
  7. Research your vendors. If you know ahead of time that you’re going to attend a wedding show, try to take the time to research some vendors in advance. Is there a particular limo you have always imagined yourself stepping out of on your wedding day? Is there a photographer whose photos you love and want to learn more? Write their names and information down. Gather as much information as you can on each of the vendors you need and have it with you. Ideally one vendor per notebook page so you have room to add if you come across their table.
  8. Bring a small tote or a purse with room in it with you. You’re going to be collecting lots of business cards, brochures, samples ad hopefully winning a giveaway or two that you’re going to have to carry. Save yourself the frustration of not having where to put it by bringing something with you that you can keep all these things.
  9. Don’t forget your snacks and water! Even if they do have a snack stand, chances are it will be kind of pricey. Not to mention, the lines might be long. Having a snack on hand will keep you full of energy and in good spirits to keep your vendor visiting running smoothly.
  10. Make sure you know how to say no. There are some vendors who can come across as pushy. Though they don’t mean to be, sometimes a simple “no thank you” can level the playing field. Please note that it is perfectly acceptable to say no if you truly are not interested. Just make sure you hear them out first. It is equally acceptable to go ahead and book on the spot if that’s what you’re moved to do. I would suggest speaking with multiple vendors, however, before actually booking. This way you have a better idea of whats available to you and be happy with your choice. Make note of your favorites though, so they don’t get lost in the stack of pamphlets you’ll have when you leave.
a row of rose and baby's breath bouquets with green eucalyptus tied with dusty rose ribbons.