What to expect at the Austin Bridal Extravaganza!

Well, it's almost here!  Time for the Austin Bridal Extravaganza!  The January show is my personal favorite.  Often times when I talk to brides and ask what they thought of the show I am met with, "Overwhelming!"  Well...let me give you a few tips for you aren't quite so overwhelmed!

My first tip...relax and enjoy it!  The Bridal Extravaganza is a one stop shop for all your wedding needs and planning a wedding should be fun...so don't stress about planning your entire wedding in one day because it won't happen.  Bring your mom, friend, fiance, whomever and make a day of it.  

Eat a light breakfast and skip lunch (trust me on this one...you will leave full).  Arrive early.  The Bridal Extravaganza opens at noon, so arrive a few minutes early to allow yourself to park and get in.  

Once the doors open start from one end of the room and work your way through to the other end.  Take your time and enjoy the booths.  You can get lots of ideas from different decorations placed in booths.  Ask the booth if you can snap a photo of something you like to remember for later.

As you make your way from booth to booth, check out their decoration.  Do you like it?  What about the people in the booth?  Are they friendly?  Taste their food...is it good?  Smell the flowers...are they fresh?  You should be able to get a good feel from somebody based on this.  If you like what you see/hear collect their information.  Ask a few questions like if your date is available, pricing, style, etc?  If you like what you hear put a star on their brochure and maybe add a few notes.  

If you find a wedding professional that you just love and know you want to work with, go ahead and sign a contract.  Bring checks/credit cards to leave a deposit.  This will make sure you aren't disappointed if you contact them a week later and your date is gone.

When you get home organize your brochures while it is still fresh.  I like to organize them by category. Put all your photographers together, bakers, etc.  If there was somebody you really liked put them on top.  If you didn't like them put them at the bottom.  That way you know your top choices when it's time to set up consultations.  

And while you are there don't foget to come grab some of our cake!!!