The main thing to remember is that you shouldn’t get overwhelmed. Going through all the information can seem daunting, but if you follow our tips, you’ll be organized in no time!
You don’t need to go through everything at once. Take an hour every night, even while you’re watching TV, to sort through everything you brought home from the show. This will make the task seem much easier and less overwhelming.
Before you start reading each piece of literature, organize it. Make piles for each type of vendor. Whether it’s a business card or a full-color brochure, place florists in one pile, venues in another, etc. If you receive additional information in the mail, place it in the corresponding pile.
Most couples choose the ceremony and reception locations first, as their availability often dictates the rest of the wedding. Then you can move on to caterers, DJs, photographers, cake bakers and other vendors. As you did with organizing, review one pile at a time. Place the vendors you want to learn more about to the side so that you can follow up with them. File the others away (you don’t want to toss them in the event that your favorite vendors are unavailable or do not meet your needs.)
If you followed our Ultimate Bridal Show Survival Guide: Cleveland Today’s Bride Edition (which you absolutely should have!) then you set up a separate email address to give to wedding vendors. However, if you didn’t, don’t worry. You can create a separate address now and forward the emails. That will make it much easier to sort through wedding and non-wedding messages.
You should set appointments with the vendors you are most serious about right away. While many vendors offer deals that are valid only at the bridal show, some will extend those deals beyond the show. When booking your appointments, be sure to mention that you met them at the bridal show, and ask if these deals are still available. The closer to the bridal show you make your appointment, the better chance of receiving the deal!
For more information, contact SPE at (216) 870-4513 or scott@spedj.com.
For more information, contact SPE at (216) 870-4513 or scott@spedj.com.