With the new year on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to schedule a visit to a bridal show if you’re engaged! With so much to see and dozens of vendors to talk to, these events can easily overwhelm many couples. This year, I’m on a mission to change that! Below, I’ve outlined my top nine tips for couples navigating an upcoming bridal show. I’m also sharing which shows in the DMV area I’m attending soon!

Bridal Show Tips

Have a Budget

Deciding on your wedding budget before attending a bridal show is crucial! Doing this will help you refine your options and avoid the booths that aren’t within a realistic price range. Moreover, it’ll allow venues and suppliers to provide a quote based on your specific budget. 

Create a Separate Email Address

Chances are, you’ll give out your email address quite a bit while visiting a bridal show. So, I recommend creating an email specifically for wedding planning purposes first! Doing this will ensure all your quotes and vendor communications go to the same place, away from your work and personal emails. 

Take Pictures and Notes

There’s so much to see at a bridal show—you never know when inspiration will strike! Bring a camera and notebook, or simply use your cell phone to snap pictures of things you like and jot down ideas.

Have Your Calendar Ready

Many suppliers, such as wedding invitation designers, offer discounts to couples who book consultations during the show. Have your calendar ready for scheduling to take advantage of a great offer!

Come Hungry

Most bridal shows have booths for caterers and bakers, so come hungry if you want to sample food and cake from various suppliers! Many also have general food booths, so rest assured you won’t leave with an empty stomach.

Wear the Right Clothing

Not only should you wear comfortable shoes for being on your feet all day, but you should also wear clothes that are easy to take on and off in case you decide to try on wedding gowns.

Be Prepared to Spend Money

Bridal shows will have many discounts for you to take advantage of, and you never know when you’ll find an invitation suite or gown you love. So, come prepared to spend money! You may even find a supplier you love, in which case you’ll need to put down a deposit to secure them for your wedding date.

Bring Samples of Your Color Theme

If you know what color theme you’ll use in your wedding, bring a few fabric swatches or pinned images to reference and show suppliers. Many will offer advice and tips based on your colors and ideas!

Be Patient

Bridal shows are busy places, so come expecting to wait in line and take the day slowly. There’s no need to become overwhelmed! Chances are, most vendors will spend several minutes with every couple, so keep that in mind when walking around. 

Are you located in the DMV? I’ll be spending January and February at the Premier Bride Wedding Expo, Turf Valley Wedding Showcase, and Under the Veil and Beyond the Bowtie. I hope to see you there! 

Bridal shows are one of the few times during the wedding planning process when you’ll have everything you need under one roof. So, be sure to take full advantage of the opportunity! With these tips, you’re prepared to make the most of your time visiting these events, making your journey to the altar easier and less stressful. Happy planning! For more tips for engaged couples, visit the blog.