Brides Club Wedding Expo: Where Do I Go From Here?
This last weekend Terice and I took part in the Seattle Wedding Expo. We met with literally hundreds of brides with weddings coming up in 2011 and 2012. It was great to meet so many of you first hand. Over the course of the last 11 years I’ve done my share of wedding shows and in that time I’ve learned a few best practices that will help brides to be make the most of their experience. Here’s a few tips that answer the question, “Now what?” that so many woman find themselves asking on the Monday after the Wedding Expo.
Most brides go to a wedding show looking for information. It’s common for a Bride to leave a wedding show overwhelmed. The Bride and her entourage will exit the show completely stunned at the volume of tasks that must be completed before the big day. I call this, “Deer in the Headlights Syndrome.”
If you are currently suffering from DHS, don’t worry there is a cure.
Your first task is to spread the pile of literature you’ve collected on the floor and begin shorting. I suggest sorting first into categories (ie, photographers, caterers, venues, etc.)
Second, remove the brochures from vendors that were unappealing. Chances are, you remember the vendors that left a bad taste in your mouth very well. If you haven’t already, toss these out! Now you should be left with a manageable, and less daunting to-do list.
Third, choose the vendor category that peaks your interest and browsing the internet!Compare the brochure you picked up to each website. Additionally it never hurts to check Google Maps for reviews from customers, physical location, and a list of services offered. Don’t be afraid to call the vendor and ask for references from past clients or set up a face to face consultation. Meeting with for favorite vendor will help you to judge if they are a right fit for you and your fiance’.
Once the right vendor has been found, ask that person for a referral and some guidance in where to turn next. Venues will often have lists of preferred vendors they will share. If you don’t have a venue, but you do like a particular photographer or DJ, ask them! Understandably it’s not the best idea to book a photographer or DJ until a venue has been chosen, but it never hurts to pick the brain of a seasoned pro. Another good resource is one you’re already familiar with, bridesclub.com . Don’t hesitate to return again and again to find new vendors and revisit others as you continue your search.
Finally, it’s important to remember that pricing and availability of the best vendors is time sensitive! Personally I love the September Wedding Expos because my calendar books 12-18 months ahead for the most popular dates (can you say 09-10-11 ladies?) Right now is a great time to book next Fall’s wedding or the summer of 2012. Plus, it’s not uncommon to see a vendor raise their prices just prior to the busy January wedding show season.
Most importantly ladies, remember how much you love your man! Wedding planning can be stressful, time consuming, and even debilitating! Don’t forget to have fun and enjoy each other along the way.
