Hints for Handling Bridal Expo 2010

Bridal Expo 2010 is coming! It’s the ideal place to check out what’s new and exciting in the world of weddings!

It’s a great opportunity for engaged couples to check out many of Calgary and other areas’ wedding vendors and learn more about the various products and services they offer. The show is this Sunday, September 12th at the Stampede's BMO Centre from 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Runways shows occur at 11:30 AM and 3:30 PM showcasing the latest in bridal fashion for the bride and groom. Tickets will be available at the door, but can also be purchased ahead of time at any Bay or Home Outfitters location.

In order to make the most of your day, here are some strategies to help you:

1. Make a list of the specific vendors you're still looking for - musicians, photographers, florists,.... It will structure your day a bit more and make things a little less overwhelming if you have a plan in mind.
2. Wear comfortable shoes.
3. Bring a canvas bag or something for the numerous brochures, cards, and print materials that are distributed throughout the day.
4. Drink water and stay hydrated. Also keep a snack in your bag, like a granola bar or almonds, to help keep your energy levels up.
5. There are tons of contests and freebies to sign-up for. Print off a few sheets of labels with your contact information (name, phone number, e-mail, wedding date, ...) and this will save your hand from cramping up from filling out the entry forms individually.
6. Be cautious about buying your dress at the fair. Although there are some great deals offered, if the dress doesn't fit right you may end up spending more on alterations than you originally saved in the first place.
7. There will be some great deals offered at the fair. Don't be afraid of taking some time to carefully consider things before committing to a vendor. You don't want to get into a situation where you felt pressured to commit and then end up blowing a significant portion of your budget or signing a contract without doing some comparison shopping. Most quality vendors will be quite reasonable if you ask for some time to think, especially since they know that if they give you the time, there is a good chance you'll be back.
8. Speaking of specials, we'll have our own Bridal Expo Specials. More details will be available at the booth on Sunday, but the price specials will be available until October 15th, 2010.
9. Feel free to come by our booth and ask for advice about vendors. We can save you some time and help point you in the right direction of the person that might be exactly who you're looking for.
10. When you get home, sort through the collected material while the information is still fresh in your mind (within a day or two). Figure out what you want to keep, and what can go in the recycling bin.

We're in booth #56. We'd love to see you. We’re featuring some incredible table linens from Wildflower Linens as well as some fantastic floral ideas. Come on by for a “look-see” and also to let us know how your day is going! We’ll also have some new photo books showcasing some of our work from this past summer.

Most importantly, enjoy Bridal Expo 2010!

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Cathy MacRae is a certified wedding and event planner, and owner of Creative Weddings and Occasions and Del Sol Destination Weddings. Located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, she plans wedding for couples in and around the Calgary and Banff area, who want a wedding that is a unique and personal reflection of them. She is also a destination wedding specialist, working with couples who desire to wed in various picturesque dream locations throughout the world. For more information about planning your own wedding or for advice from Cathy, please contact her at info@creativeweddingsandoccasions.com.