wedding fairs
Visiting a wedding fair isn't an absolute must for a bride-to-be, but they can be extremely useful if you're looking for suppliers.
A wedding fair is the only situation where you'll have dozens, perhaps even hundreds, of potential suppliers under one roof. The value of meeting them face to face can't be overstated, as this is the best way to gauge whether you would be comfortable having them at your wedding.
There are lots of different types of wedding fairs, from the small local ones featuring suppliers from nearby, to the larger exhibitions or shows featuring many different photographers, florists, bridal salons etc.
At the larger ones, you will probably have to pay to get in, but there might be free products for you to try, such as wine tastings, makeovers, chocolate fountains and cakes etc. The ticket price will also partly cover the cost of hosting a fashion show that runs several times over the course of a day or weekend.These can provide a great source of inspiration. There may also be discounts available for ordering on the day.
Be prepared
Going to a wedding fair can be great fun or gruelling experience if you're not in the right frame of mind. Here are a few pointers to help optimise your enjoyment level:
- The early bird catches the worm. If you
get there not too long after the doors open it's more pleasant as they do tend to get busier towards lunchtime. If you get there too late you'll not have time to see all you'd
like to.
- Size matters: Unless you're going to a local affair, it's
hard to describe just how big wedding fairs are until you actually get there.
There will be some kind of map in the programme, so use it.
- Have a cunning plan: Unless you have concrete
aims for the day, you'll find yourself standing idly in a hypnotic daze
in front of the revolving cakes. Be strong, there are many sparkly, pretty
things but you need to walk on by.
- Don't be scared: Bright lights and a million exhibitors can be a little overwhelming at first, but don't be scared to ask questions about services you're interested in. Remember that the people representing companies aren't mind-readers, and (most of them) don't
want to be too pushy. So make the first move and they should turn out to
be helpful types.
- Communication: Make sure all your accomplices
have their mobiles present and correct - grooms, mums or bridesmaids, they'll
all try to escape, you take our word for it.
- Above all else: One last extremely important word, or two actually: comfortable shoes.
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