Saturday, January 7, 2012

January = Wedding Show Time!


Tis the season! That's right, while there are many smaller wedding shows put on throughout the year, The Wonderful Wedding Show is the "big kahuna" of wedding shows here in Winnipeg. The Wonderful Wedding Show is held in January each year at the Convention Centre; this year, it's taking place on January 21 and 22. We understand that for a bride, The WWS can be a tad overwhelming, especially if she's never been before. Where do you start? How do you know how many booths to take in? How long should you spend at each booth? These are things a newly engaged bride wouldn't necessarily know. That is why we've compiled a list of things every bride should know before she takes in any wedding show, big or small.

1. Bring pre-printed cards to save time. Nearly every vendor will ask for your contact info and instead of writing the same information over and over, consider bringing pre-printed cards with your name, email address, phone number, wedding date and location. Make sure you leave a little space if additional information is needed like say number in your wedding party.

2. Remember, it's your day. It's easy to get caught up in the hoopla of the event but just because they're offering you 10% off on an ice sculpture that you can pour martinis through, doesn't mean you have to take them up on the offer. Unless of course, that fits with your vision. Remember what's important to you and to prioritize.

3. Don't bring too many people. If you have a large bridal party, maybe go with your mom or just your maid of honour. The WWS is big and crowded and the last thing you need to do is to be trying to keep track of everyone as you navigate your way through the chiffon and glitter.

4. You can say no, you know. I get a little squeamish when it comes to agressive sales pitches but sometimes I've learned that your best defence is just to politely decline. You don't have to give your email address to everyone you talk to and you don't have to pretend you like something when you really don't. That's not what wedding shows are for.

5. Prepare physically. I don't mean make sure you go to the gym beforehand, I just mean to make sure you take care of simple things before you head to the show. That is, make sure you've had a bite to eat and you're not going to be thinking about how hungry you are the whole time. Try to get dropped off or park underground so that you can leave your coat in the car. There is a coat check available but coat checks can get busy and full. Bring a light purse with only the essentials in it.

6. Bring a notebook. You would never go to a meeting at work without a laptop or a notebook because you forget things! The same applies at The WWS. Bring a hard notebook with a pen (and a few extra) so you can record things down as you go. You might also want a folder so you can tuck away handouts and brochures in an organized fashion.

7. Get a schedule and a map. Don't miss the fashion show and make sure you know your way around. Get a map beforehand and roughly plan out the booths you don't want to miss.

8. Last but not least, HAVE FUN and take it all in! You're getting married!! 





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