The lovely Angee Shields of Vacations with Flair posted a fantastic blog with some bridal show tips!  Since bridal show season is now upon us (with the first major one being this Sunday, January 9th at the Peoria Civic Center) - we thought we'd pass along her fabulous tips!  Be sure to visit her blog - http://weddingswithflair.wordpress.com/ - for even more tips and advice!  And, when you're planning your honeymoon or destination wedding - PLEASE give her a call!  She'll take wonderful care of you and you'll definitely gain a new friend!  If you're looking for more information on the upcoming bridal shows, watch our Facebook page for updates or check our calendar section of the website - we'll keep you in the loop!

Anybody get engaged over the holidays?  The bridal industry is gearing to launch Wedding Shows for 2011.  Here are some fun tips to make the most out of this season.

1.  Find the Shows~ Get online and google “wedding show” and “Bridal Show”  and your area or town.

2.  Come Early~ Not only will you miss the majority of the crowds, but you’ll find vendors more able to answer your questions.

3.  Come Prepared~ Chances are good that every other vendor will be giving away something in a free drawing.  My agency gives away a Free Honeymoon.  Be prepared and pack plenty of address lables.  Expect that you’ll still need to fill in non-address facts, like birthdate or wedding date or fiance’s name.  You could also preprint this information on an Avery address label.  Make sure to include your name, address, phone/cell phone, fiance’s name, wedding date.

4.  Take Pictures~  Use your camera or phone to snap a picture of any vendor you are wanting to make sure you remember later.  Wedding Shows have the ability to zap your brain.  After making the rounds and talking to a hundred different vendors, you might not remember the important ones clearly.

5.  Take a Bag~ Make it a fabric bag.  Some shows will give out bags, but don’t count on it.  Usually it’s plastic and will rip under the heavy load of brochures you will be getting.  Every wedding show I work at, I see women awkwardly trying to juggle their purse, a pile of free literature, and handle a snack.  Do yourself a favor and stash your large purse somewhere and just bring your wallet.  If you can get away with stashing your heavy winter coat, do it!  Carrying around your coat will only hinder you.  (Side note - not from Angee - if you attend any Behind Every Bride shows this year - we have fabulous new bags for all of our brides!  Get excited!!!)

I hope these tips help!  Congratulations on your engagement, and have fun!