Now that the holidays are over and the new year is in full swing, wedding season seems just around the corner. Time seems to move even faster than normal when planning a wedding and all of the little details can quickly add up. Nailing down the essentials (ex. venue, music, food, attire, etc.) is usually first on the priority list and can seem like a daunting task. A bridal expo is the perfect place for brides and their families to get ideas, weigh their options, and start making those decisions but can also seem like an overwhelming experience. As a former bride, bridesmaid, and maid of honor, I wanted to share a few of my favorite tips for not only surviving a bridal expo but also having fun and making the most of your time.

• Gather Your Squad – Bringing the right people with you to any event makes all the difference. Picking the few people who know you the best and understand your priorities/vision for your day will help everything run smoothly. Share your thoughts on your day before entering the expo so you can divide and conquer while staying on the same page throughout the event.
• Know What You Need – Do you already have a venue selected? What are their rules on vendors? Do you have a caterer already picked out? Do you know that you definitely do not want to go on a cruise for your honeymoon. Know what you already have nailed down and the basics of what you want. There are vendors your do not need to talk to so it is ok to pass them over and move on.
• Find a Bag – If the expo registry table isn’t handing out bags for brides, find a vendor who is giving out bags as swag. You will be handed lots of STUFF. You can always shove everything in your bag and sort through it later. You don’t have to take in all the details while at the expo or make any big commitments, but having information to refer back to can be handy.
• Be Bold & Be Brave – If a conversation isn’t heading the way you want or a vendor is being too pushy it is ok to shut it down! It is perfectly fine to say “no” and keep walking.
  Eat First & Stay Hydrated – Food may be provided but there is no guarantee it will be something you like or anything more than appetizers. There is nothing worse than trying to navigate an expo, negotiate with vendors, and wrangle family members while you are feeling hangry. Bring some water and eat first. Expos are a great reason to go out for lunch with friends or family first.
• Create a Wedding Specific Email Address – This was the first tip I gave my sister and she regrets not taking it because 7 months after her wedding she is still getting daily emails from wedding vendors, registry sites, and other wedding websites. Create an email address you can use solely for the purpose of giving vendors and communicating with everyone regarding your day.
• Print Labels with Contact Information – Vendors want a way to contact you or to enter giveaways. Having a label printed with at least your name and wedding email will save a lot of time and avoid hand cramps.
• Have Fun – Your wedding is supposed to be the happiest day of your life so try to enjoy the ride!! Take your time and enjoy the experience of planning of your wedding! Expos are a great time to explore your options and have a good time with family and friends celebrating your upcoming wedding.

If you are newly engaged or planning your wedding, congrats!!!!! Fun DMC will be at The Elegant Bridal Expo in Springfield and Bloomington over the next couple weeks and would love to see you there! Happy Wedding Planning.