Are you recently engaged and excited to check out a Wedding Faire or Expo near you?

You’ve probably easily found your partner-in-crime to tackle the day with, but, are you wondering how you make the most of the event?

Wedding faires and expos are the perfect place for couples planning their wedding to gather ideas, meet vendors, and get inspiration for their big day. These events bring many businesses in the wedding industry together in one space and offer a unique opportunity for couples to see, touch, and experience the products and services that are available to them. For some couples, these events can also feel a bit overwhelming. With that in mind, here are some tips and tricks to ensure you get all you deserve out of attending.

1. Make a list of your priorities

Before heading out, it is important to know your wedding budget and make a list of what you want to get out of the wedding faire or expo. This could include finding a venue, tasting cake, or meeting with photographers. Knowing these main priorities will help you make informed decisions about the vendors and services you want to invest in, as well as, make the most of your time at the event and ensure you don’t miss anything important.

2. Research the vendors beforehand

Before you attend the event, take some time to research the vendors who will be there. This will give you a better understanding of what they have to offer and what you can expect when you meet them. It will also help you make informed decisions about which vendors you want to focus on while you’re at the event.

3. Think about your attire

While you want to look your best, it’s important to wear comfortable clothing and shoes to a wedding fair or expo. You’ll be on your feet for most of the day, and you don’t want your outfit to distract from the experience (Cue those throbbing feet). Dress in a way that reflects your personal style and says “in my wedding era”, but keep it comfortable and practical.

4. Bring a notebook and pen

Having a notebook and pen on hand will help you keep track of the vendors you meet and the ideas you have. You can jot down notes about the vendors, their products, and services, and any other information that may be useful to you in the future. Often times you will get overloaded with business cards, brochures and online codes that can make remembering ideas and thoughts post event overwhelming.

In fact, let’s add a bag to that list to store all of those items you get so your hands stay free (for cocktails 😉).

5. Take photos and videos

Bring your camera or fully charged phone to take photos and videos of the event. This will allow you to remember all the visual details and ideas that you gather while you’re there, and you can refer back to them later when you’re making decisions about anything design wise.

6. Ask questions

Don’t be afraid to ask questions of the vendors you meet. They are there to help you, and they want to make sure you have all the information you need to make informed decisions about your wedding. Ask about their products, services, and experience, and take the time to get to know them. Also know that not every vendor onsite is looking to SELL to you, some are really just there to share their passion and get to know new people!

7. Take advantage of free samples and demonstrations

Wedding fairs and expos can be busy and crowded, but don’t feel like you need to rush through them. These events often offer free samples and demonstrations of the products and services that are available. Take advantage of these opportunities to get a better understanding of what you’re interested in and what you aren’t.

8. Prepare for the giveaways!

Within the first few minutes of a wedding faire or expo you will discover just how many giveaways are available to enter. Save yourself the hand cramp by coming prepared! Pick up a pack of label stickers from the closest stationery store and create a custom personal label that includes:

• Your Name
• Your Wedding Date
• Your Phone Number
• Your Email Address

Now instead of filling out every single ballot, you can peel and stick!

9. Make it a memory

Yes, we want to ensure you are reaping all the benefits of a wedding faire or expo but let’s not forget that above all else, this experience is supposed to be FUN!! Being engaged is exciting so why not make this event a core memory of your wedding journey! Grab your favorite people and make a day out of the event by extending the fun in some way or another. Think brunch mimosas, dress shopping or an evening recap dinner.

NOTE: Remember that weddings come with a lot of opinions to begin with. Ensure the people you bring with you will match your excitement and understand your vision, so that the day doesn’t get bogged down catering to other people’s wants for your wedding day.

A Wedding Faire or Expo is a great way to kick off planning for your big day. You may not leave the show with every detail finalized, but with these tips and tricks in mind, you can make the most of your time at the event by gathering information and inspiration to make your big day unforgettable!

Happy Planning! xo