Discussing Bridal Shows with Industry Insiders – Their Insights & Experience

I really appreciated getting the inside viewpoint. Every bride will ask family and friends for ideas and advice. I thought it was very good to get some feedback outside what most of us have access to!

MWH: What has changed the most since you started?

RICHARD: More info, better informed brides.

AMYE: Non- traditional weddings, non-church ceremonies, ceremonies and receptions at the same venue - maybe on the reservoir, river, plantation, etc.

JENNIFER: Nothing. The fun part of this industry is there are brides of all types and kinds. I would say that big weddings are making a comeback from “destination” weddings of the past. However, the reality is, there will always be a bride getting married somewhere and she will employ the services, no matter how lavish or simple, of the wedding industry. I also see a shift from the Home Depot brides to paying professionals their price to have a professional job done. Do it Yourselfers are for kitchens and tile, not weddings. Although we are all creative, it costs more money in the end to “do-it-yourself” than if you just paid someone their price. What I think brides understand now is, it cost your more time, energy, stress and money to do something on your own. Reality: enjoy your day and pay the leaders to deliver your vision.

MWH: What is the newest trend you love or hate?

RICHARD: Hate – celebrity trends for weddings.

AMYE: Love – color. Brides are incorporating more color than ever into their weddings. The new vibrant bridesmaids dress colors.

JENNIFER: Love : same day wedding video edits……for guests and couples to see themselves get married from the videographers perspective or a bride and groom to see the reactions of the guests at their reception is powerful. A lot of videographers are getting into same day edits where they have an editor turn out the wedding video montage for guests to see at the reception when the bride and groom are introduced. It is very powerful and emotional.

Hate: do it yourself brides. The quality isn’t there and the bride is beyond a bridezilla and beyond a control freak. I vote, pay the professionals and have a cocktail to relax and enjoy the day.

This series, “All about Bridal Shows,” continues with Discussions on Bridal Shows from Industry Insiders:

• Part 1: Introduction
• Part 2: What a bride should bring
• Part 3: What a bride should see
• Part 4: What a bride should focus on or not forget
• Part 5: Insights & Experience from Top Wedding Vendors
• Part 6: Vendor Advice