Did you know that my (Lindsay’s) first job out of university was an editorial internship at Weddingbells magazine? It’s true! I’ve been working in and around the wedding industry for quite a while now. I wanted to share with you a piece I wrote that was originally published on their website. There are a few points on there that could be modernized (#5: swamp “pen and paper” with “cellphone”), but the rest still rings true. 

Lindsay’s first job after university was an internship at Weddingbell’s Magazine

Over the next few weeks, there are a number of bridal shows set to be happening in London, Toronto, and elsewhere in Ontario. Without further ado, here’s advice from Intern Lindsay on tackling wedding expos:

“Get ready to attend your next bridal show with these ten helpful tips. 

’Tis the season for bridal shows! These hectic events can be overwhelming to say the least. To ensure you get the most out of your time, Weddingbells has created a list of 10 helpful tips to make your W-show visit a success.

1. Wear comfy shoes! You may want to have the most stylish wedding around, but today is not the day to show off your impeccable fashion sense. Leave the heels at home and slip on your runners. You’ll be walking, standing and dodging herds of brides-to-be for hours. If halfway through the expo you have to limp from booth to booth, you probably won’t be the happiest leading lady. Remember, this is our number one tip for a reason!

Example of a poor choice in footwear for a wedding show

2. Create a plan of attack. You’ll want to find out in advance the list of attending vendors (this should be available on the bridal show’s website). Take note of any that you must see and their location at the event. This way if you’re running low on time you can skip ahead to the vendors that you really need to visit.

3. Carry a big purse. It’s time for your favourite oversized tote to shine! All the vendors will have cards, pamphlets and samples that they’ll be more than eager to give to you. Be sure to come prepared with lots of space to collect the seemingly endless array of information.

4. Bring address labels for draws. At the bridal show, you will likely come across many contests and draws at the various booths. Instead of wasting precious time filling out forms, just slap a pre-made sticker on them. Your label should include your name, phone number, address, postal code, email and wedding date.

5. Bring a pen and paper. You’ll want to jot down notes and exchange information with some of the wedding vendors. You may think there’s no way that you’ll forget who has those rare flowers you’ve been searching for, but by the end of the day you’ll likely have a severe case of information overload. It’s best to record the information immediately so you aren’t left scratching your head later on.

6. Leave your entourage at home. It may seem like a good idea to bring your cousin’s best friend’s sister and everyone in between, but the more people you have with you, the more people you have to keep track of. It’s a better bet to bring one or two people whose opinions will really be helpful to you, rather than a chaotic, albeit, well-intentioned troop of ladies.

I <3 you ladies, but I don't need you all at the bridal show

7. Find out the times of the fashion shows. At most wedding expos the seating for the fashion shows will be given on a first come first serve basis. In some cases, if there is a show that you would really like a good seat for you may want to claim it up to an hour beforehand. To be sure, check with the organizers of the specific exhibition you’re attending.

8. Go during downtimes. To get the most out of your wedding show expedition, visit when the crowds will be minimal. Fewer future brides equals more time for vendors to talk with you. Bridal shows that run from Friday to Sunday are generally the least busy on Friday and the most hectic on Saturday.

9. Know what to ask. If you already have a general idea of what you’re looking for, you will be able to get more accomplished. Bridal shows are an ideal way to find the vendor that’s right for you. For example, instead of interviewing several wedding planners on different days, you can merely visit each planner’s booth until you find the perfect fit.

10. Make a day of it. Although planning a wedding can be stressful it should also be a lot of fun! Enjoy your time at the expo; it should be inspiring and exciting. Why not stop for a nice lunch or raise cocktails at the end of a successful day with your nearest and dearest who’ve accompanied you to the show? ”

11. A bonus tip from Photographer Lindsay. There are now a lot of choices when it comes to bridal shows. There are the traditional large, convention centre style ones with lots of established vendors. However, there are now many niche markets shows too. Some specialize in high-end, luxury vendors, while others may showcase artistic, boutique or eco-friendly vendors.

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