How to Get the Most from a Bridal Show



Most brides-to-be know that a bridal show is a hands-on way sample the style and offerings of local vendors. But when you, as that bride-to-be, walk into a large show, it can seem overwhelming. Where do you start? How do you get the most from your visit? To help you maximize your time, San Diego Bride & Groom interviewed a pair of San Diego bridal show experts for their suggestions.

Betsy Winsett and Patty Westbrook produce the Bridal Bazaar shows in San Diego, the largest of their kind on the West Coast. They’re held four times a year in the San Diego Convention Center and the Del Mar Fairgrounds. Their shows were named San Diego's best by Bridalinsider.com, and the January show is one of the ten largest in the US with over 300 booths.

Prepare!
Betsy and Patty's first suggestion is to ensure that you and your fiancé are well prepared. (Over 40% of the brides take their fiancés to the show). First, wear comfortable shoes. Secondly, get preprinted labels so that when you stop at a vendor's table to fill out a form, you don't have to write each one by hand. Make a list of the things you need to do. For example, are you in the planning stages? Use the chart in this magazine (page 21) to see what you have to get done at each stage. For example, if you're just starting your preparations, go to the chart to see what you have to get done the farthest out. Then, when you get to the show, you can limit your options to what you need and can handle.



Organize!
Walk the show to get ideas and, as you collect literature, sort it by category. Keep anything that reminds you of whom you talked to. Take notes. Taste cakes. Listen to music. If you see a reception site that interests you, ask lots of questions. Betsy and Patty suggest that you walk the show for an hour and a half, attend the half-hour fashion show where you can sit and re-energize, then spend another hour on the rest of the exhibits.
Look for show specials. Some vendors will offer a discount if you book at the show. But only do it if you are absolutely sure this is a vendor you will be happy with. If you and the vendor are not in sync, it doesn't matter how much you save, the association just may not work.

At the Fashion Show
The show gives you a chance to see real clothes on real people, say Betsy and Patty. They point out that you will see a range of prices and fashions for brides, grooms, parents and bridal party, including kids. So while you’re taking a break from touring the show, you can also get a slew of ideas for your own event.

Spend Wisely
The average Southern California wedding now costs over $20,000. Say Patty Westbook and Betsy Windett of Bridal Bazaar, if you do your homework, organize and keep good notes, you should be able to get more than your money's worth.