There are a few things that can really throw your experience at a wedding show off the rails. The wrong shoes (you’ll want to leave after about ten minutes). A small handbag (you need a big bag, think boho big). No cash for parking (because that’s always what ends up happening to me and I end up digging under my seat for quartres). And an unprepared squad. Seriously. The group you ask to attend the show by your side will have a big impact on your experience and what you’re able to get out of the show. But at the same time, you can’t exactly exclude anyone from it, if they want to come. What are you supposed to say, sorry this blog from Calgary Bride said you wouldn’t be of any help so…. text ya later! No, it doesn’t work like that. So while you have no choice but to rally your troops, that doesn’t mean you can give them a little prep to make sure you get the most of it. As an old pro at weddings shows, I’m going to give you the run on jobs and prep you can give any type of squad member.
Your Seriously Organized Friend: She is the one who will want to map out a route before you even hit the floor. Ask her to help you create a checklist of vendors you want to meet and things it might be fun to check out (need versus want). Then ask her to keep track of the list to make sure you’re hitting all your items on the day of.
Your Not Really Into It Friend: She is the one who’s going along because she loves you, not because she wants to spend a Sunday wedding planning. Ask her if she’ll take care of planning a fabulous post-show lunch/dinner at a hot spot in town, which will keep her energy and excitement level up.
Your Doesn’t Really Know The Other Girls Friend/Sister: Your friend who you met when you were five years old in highland dance class – she’s not super close with the rest of your crew, but that doesn’t mean she’s not the best. She’s officially in charge of spotting hilarious spots to take selfies, and writing down ridiculous thing overheard in the crowds. As well, she’s in charge of ordering the wine at the bar, because there’s no easier way to make friends than with a tray full of chardonnay!
Your Mom: You don’t leave Mom at home for The Wedding Fair, heck no!! Mom’s job is to take photos of everything she loves at the show – gowns, decor, cakes, cars, everything. She is the official show photographer for the day!
Your Future-Mother-In-Law: for many brides, bringing their future-MIL is a strategic decision, and it can be tricky, and tasking your MIL at the show might not be something you want to do. So we’re going to go flip-mode on this one – give each of your besties a topic of conversation (or two or three!) that they can strike up with your MIL to make sure she feels bonded and included. Whether it’s her competitive Tae Kwon Do, her champion show poodle or her favourite shortcake recipe, make sure your girls can help you carry the conversation with her throughout the day.
You can still get Advanced Tickets to The Wedding Fair, which is happening January 15, 2017 at the BMo Centre. Click here to save $5 off each ticket!
Sources
Whippt Desserts & Catering/The Wedding Fair Calgary/Expressive Events/Julianne Young Weddings/Photo bliss
