Bridal Shows, Bridal Woes

There are so many different types of bridal shows going on around town each year that it is difficult to decipher exactly how beneficial each show can be for a bride. I, for one, am not a fan of bridal shows, but I still go. Is it the allure of free gifts? Maybe it’s the chance to see different vendors in the name of research? I’m not exactly sure. But I can say this –– bridal shows take effort and discipline. Here are my Top 5 tips about attending bridal shows based on personal experience.

1.    Arrive early! Many bridal shows have valet parking included, but I’ve never actually been able to take advantage of this perk. If the bridal show begins at 3 p.m. and you arrive at 3:30, chances are you’ve already missed out on the valet parking and free champagne at the door. There is only a limited supply of each. Be forewarned!


2.    Bring a bag to carry pamphlets in. Some shows give out bags at the door, but others expect brides to be prepared. I have attended both types of shows, but it is still helpful to have a bag handy just in case. I attended a bridal show recently at a newly renovated hotel downtown. Bed Bath & Beyond was giving out bags at the door, but I was unfortunately one of the ones who missed out on getting one. Maybe they underestimated how many brides would be in attendance, but I was only 20 minutes late. It definitely stinks to carry around tons of pamphlets, a purse and all the rigmarole that goes along with the show. Bringing your own bag (and maybe someone to carry it for you, like a fiancé … hint, hint) will definitely help out in the long run.


3.    Don’t visit booths for vendors you don’t plan to use. This is an easy one. If you already have your photographer chosen, it doesn’t make sense to pick up a pamphlet for every other photographer at the event. It’s also disheartening for the vendors if you visit their booths and then inform them you’ve already chosen one of their competitors. A lot of times, they ask you for your information and so you fill out the paperwork because you’re put on the spot. I am still getting phone calls from vendors I wish would just take me off their list as I had no intention of using them to begin with. Just stay away from their booth, and no one gets their feelings hurt.


4.    Bring something to drink. You usually have the option to purchase beverages at a bar inside the show, but the prices are pretty high, and you’re going to be thirsty. For some reason, it gets extremely hot inside the showroom, no matter how much air conditioning is pumped inside. You’re also yelling over loud music and hundreds of excited brides to ask the vendors questions. A bottle of water will come in handy.


5.    Be open-minded and pay attention. This is probably the most important tip because it will help you save money and time in the end. I found many vendors at bridal shows that I never would have given a second glance in a magazine or Web search. But after talking to them and seeing what they had to offer, I was able to consider using them for my event. This goes for favors, registries, videographers –– you name it! 

Bridal shows can either be a very positive experience or make you swear off these events altogether. I tell myself I’m going to stay away from bridal shows because they take a lot of time and are generally crowded, but I usually attend them in the end anyway. There is something about the chance to win a honeymoon or gift package that keeps me interested. At the last bridal show I attended, I was able to find a videographer, which was definitely a big check off my list. Just follow these tips as best as you can, and you’re sure to have an enjoyable experience. What are your tips for attending bridal shows? I’m interested to find out!
 

Get Our Email Newsletters

The best in New Orleans dining, shopping, events and more delivered to your inbox.

Digital Sponsors

Become a MyNewOrleans.com sponsor ...

Give the gift of a subscription ... exclusive 50% off

Limited time offer. New subscribers only.

Give the Gift!

Save 50% on all our publications for an exclusive holiday special!

Limited time offer. New subscribers only.