We know a bridal show can be overwhelming, so take advantage of our years of experience with this list of dos and don’ts, which will ensure you have the best experience possible!
1. DO conduct some research beforehand
If you already have some vendors in mind, check to see if they’re attending. Write down a list of your “must-see” vendors, then, at the show, cross them off as you visit their booths to ensure you get to everyone. Make sure to bring labels with your name, phone number, email address (see DON’T No. 2) and physical address so you don’t waste time writing it out at each vendor! You should also know some basics of your wedding day, such as approximate guest count and budget, so you can have a better idea of what you need and can afford.
Where: I-X Center
1 I-X Center Drive
Cleveland, OH 44114
When: Saturday, Jan. 27, noon to 7 p.m.
Sunday, Jan. 28, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Time Till I-X Center Show:
Day(s)
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Hour(s)
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Unless you want to be bombarded with sales pitches, don’t give away your personal or work email address. Set up an account just for wedding planning, and give this to the vendors both during and outside the show. This will also help you keep everything wedding-related organized in one place.
3. DO bring a list of questions.
With so many vendors to hit, you want to maximize your time. Bring a list of questions for each category of vendor, e.g. florist, caterer, DJ, etc., and any questions you may have for specific businesses. The vendors will appreciate your preparedness (trust us)!
4. DON’T assume all bridal shows are alike.
Of course, we all know bridal shows will have vendor booths. But which vendors are available varies from show to show and location to location. Also, the show’s special events, such as fashion shows or demonstrations, will be different. Look at the show’s website ahead of time to see what is unique to the event!
5. DO purchase tickets ahead of time
By buying your tickets ahead of time, you avoid waiting in line the day of and can head right into the show. Also, most shows, including the Today’s Bride show, offer a discount if you purchase your tickets online prior to the show.
6. DON’T bring an entire entourage.
Bridal shows are crowded, so the less people you have with you, the more space you’ll have. Also, bringing too many people is a surefire way to get overwhelmed when they’re each pulling you in a different direction. Instead, bring only a few close friends or family members you can count on, such as your mom and maid of honor.
7. DO bring your accessories.
Bring anything that might help you make decisions, whether it be a color swatch of your bridesmaids’ dresses or your statement bridal necklace. This way, you can compare potential color schemes, dresses and more without second guessing yourself.
8. DON’T think you can pop in and out.
Plan to spend at least a few hours at the show. You want to take your time and visit as many vendors as possible. You also want to take advantage of the displays, demonstrations, giveaways and games!
Just in time for the Today’s Bridal Show, SPE is offering a fantastic bundle deal. Save up to $1,200 with four brands: Sound Precision Entertainment; Capture Cleveland Photography, LLC; Red Frame Videography; and Monocle Photo Booth. For more information, contact SPE at (216) 870-4513 or scott@spedj.com. Book an appointment to receive free tickets to the Today’s Bridal Show (regularly $15 each!)
