Bridal Shows: Are they worth it?

As a bridal show virgin, I had very high expectations of what a bridal show would be like. I was surprised by what I encountered. Think back to college recruitment fairs... too many people in too little space filled with small booths of overcaffeinated, shiny happy people pressuring you to choose them.

Don't get me wrong, there are some perks to bridal shows. First of all it is a one stop shop: you can literally find a florist, bakery, photographer, DJ, and reception hall all in one afternoon. Though I would not recommend it! Another benefit is the ability to view numerous photographer's portfolios. Remember that they are only going to bring their very best shots. But you can get a great feel for their work. Make sure you see all their pictures for an entire wedding before signing a contract. Lastly, two words: DOOR PRIZES! Make sure you register and cross your fingers ladies. I was lucky enough to have won some absolutely fabulous prizes.

Tips for tackling bridal shows

1. Print 1-3 sheets of address labels on your computer. This will save you buckets of time when requesting information at vendor booths. Add your email address, phone number, and wedding date too!
2. Wear comfortable shoes and short sleeves! As I mentioned before, these shows can be packed and no one wants to be sweating like a pig while talking to possible vendors.
3. Bring along one or two family members or friends- not your entire bridal party. Honestly, unless you are the bride, MOB, or a very involved bridesmaid, you'll be bored to death.
4. Do your research. Typically you can view the vendor list prior to the show and find where their booths are located. Print out a map, highlight who you want to talk to, and have a plan. Since your time with each vendor is quite short, have a few important questions written down to ask.
5. Look for Coupons/Discounts. Often vendors will provide you with discounts, vouchers, or coupons at the show. These may be available at the show or be sent to you in the weeks after. If you are even considering a particular vendor, sign up for additional information.
6. Organize your information. When you get home, unload your bag into a planning binder. If you don't have one... see my previous posts!

Getting Organized: Your wedding planning essentials

Think back to that wonderful day your man proposed to you. You finally heard him say those fantastic four words, "Will you marry me?" Even before you could utter yes your mind was racing with thoughts of what time of year will we get married? who will be in my bridal party? and what will my gown look like? In the months leading up to your big day you will make a million little decisions. To keep you on track here are a few indispensable items every bride to be should have.

* A three ring binder - at least one inch thick...
* 100-200 clear page protectors to place magazine pictures, articles, and contracts
* A calendar with tons of room each day to write in appointments, vendor payment dates, and deadlines
* Highlighters in several shades- use to color code items on calendar
* Sheets of loose leaf paper to make lists
* Sticker tabs to categorize sections of binder
* Business card holder for three ring binder
* Zipper compartments for three ring binder (to place fabric samples of gowns)

Other items to place in binder include a timeline of what to do and when to do it. You can collect one from a magazine or download from the internet. As you progress in your planning, add a copy of your guest list, vendor contact information, copy of contracts, and registry information.

I don't particularly care for the traditional wedding planners sold in stores. I found that my handy binder and a book of lists worked much better for me. I highly recommend The Bride's Book of Lists: Things to Do & Questions to Ask by Amy Nebens. This little green book has it all. Vendor question lists, helpful hints, and directions for making a Bridal Emergency Kit are just a few of the features. It is even small enough to tuck into your purse. I literally did not leave home without it.

Program all your wedding related phone numbers directly into your cell phone. This will save you oodles of time. It may seem bothersome now but trust me you'll thank me later.

As you start purchasing the items for your wedding, allocate a particular space in your house or purchase Rubbermaid containers for you to keep your items. Be sure to keep a list of items purchased in your binder. Keep your receipts. I purchased a plastic coupon organizer to hold my receipts. This allowed for easy retrieval when I changed my mind and needed to return an item.

Lastly, remember to update your wedding binder regularly by removing pictures of things you changed your mind about, documenting purchases, and tracking your planning progress.

Is there life after....

For the past twenty months, I have spent endless hours perusing bridal magazines, reading bridal books, chatting on the knot, creating a wedding website, registrying, designing centerpieces, buying items, researching venues, calligraphing envelopes, writing thank yous, and making tens of thousands of minor decisions for one little day: October 12th. Well, it came... and went. It was perfect. The venue was stunning, the ceremony was heartfelt, my husband was incredibly sexy! and the party was extraordinary. The compliments started from the day I showed my friends and family my big ol' wedding planning binder and haven't slowed down. Most importantly I am married to my soulmate and we will forever face life challenges together as one. But here's my question... is there life after wedding planning???