IOWA BRIDAL SHOW - WEDDING SHOW TIPS

1. CREATE A WEDDING EMAIL ADDRESS
A wedding email address will help you keep your wedding planning information together in one account for easier comparison and access. If others are helping you plan, you can always give them the password so they can view your ideas and favorites as well.
 

2. RVSP OR PRE-REGISTER FOR THE WEDDING SHOW
By pre-registering or buying tickets online, you save time getting into the show.  Just like a wedding, bridal shows need to know an approximate count of attendees to plan for the amount of cake needed for tasting, door prizes, swag bags, magazines, and samples.

3. WEAR COMFORTABLE SHOES
From boutique bridal shows to large wedding convention expos, you will be on your feet for most of the time and generally covering a lot of ground, so wear comfortable shoes to keep your feet happy.
 

4. EAT A GOOD BREAKFAST
Although many shows offer cake and food samples, hors d’oeuvres, and other treats, it is still not a meal and you don’t want to be hangry.

 5. GROOMS ARE ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND
A Wedding Trade Show Expo goes by many names including "Bridal Show", "Bridal Expo", or "Bridal Fair”. All of these names contain the word “Bride” and none say “Groom.”  For that reason, many grooms feel that it is not an event for them, but indeed it is.  The groom can help the bride make decisions about wedding services such as invitations and flowers as well as check out "manly" wedding services such as tuxedos, DJ services, honeymoon destinations, and photography.
 

6. BRING LABELS
Most exhibiting companies have “Enter to Win” contests or “Show Only” specials at their booths.  By having pre-printed labels with your name, wedding date, and contact info, you can enter quickly.  Printed labels also help you to provide your information to companies that you are interested in. You’re Welcome. 😊
 

7. TAKE NOTES AND PICTURES
Bridal shows can be overwhelming, especially when you are just starting out.  You want to remember who you spoke with and whose services impressed you even if you are not ready to book right away.  Most exhibitors are happy for you to take photos of their service, but it is always nice to ask. Always ask them for a flyer or a business card and take a picture of that too. If you lose or misplace information, you can always follow up with the bridal show company to ask about their exhibitors. The more information you have, the easier it is to put you in contact with that company.

8. ENTER TO WIN!
Wedding professionals provide real prizes which are generally geared around weddings (which happens to be exactly what you need), so definitely enter to win!  At bridal shows the saying is "Few will Enter, Many will Win!"
 
9. KEEP AN OPEN MIND
Have a budget in mind as well as the types of services that you are looking for.  Be prepared, however, to see ideas, services, and wedding day inspirations that you had not thought of (the wedding industry is an ever-creative bunch always coming up with something exciting and new).  Take the time to check out these services to see if they would be something to incorporate in your special day.
 

10. FOLLOW UP WITH COMPANIES YOU LIKE
Wedding professionals at bridal shows are actively out there exhibiting their service and style to personally meet brides and ultimately book weddings.  They are confident in their customer service and product, so rather than just relying on a website or stylized photos, they are there to speak with brides in person. They want to help you achieve your dream wedding by providing a quality service.  Because of this, their calendars book up quickly, so if you speak with someone that you are interested in, be sure to follow up with them soon after the show to schedule an appointment for more information or to secure your date.
 

11. CHECK THE EVENT YOU WANT TO ATTEND
Not all bridal shows are created equal so take the time to research where the show is being held. Check out the producer's website and social networking links. Feel free to email or call the company producing the show to ask questions.  Bridal Show producers value the brides attending their events and are happy to speak with you.
 

12. HAVE FUN AT THE IOWA BRIDAL SHOW
It will be a lot of information to process, but relax, take a deep breath, and enjoy it. Wedding planning is only stressful if you allow it to be. You will be in a place where every exhibitor is interested in knowing about your day including wedding colors, wedding date, engagement, and wedding party.  Take the time to talk about your plans and enjoy and savor your upcoming day. Keep the excitement of your upcoming Big Day alive! 

Sourced Premier Bridal Shows