Sooo many Bridal Fairs-which is best??

missyreeves21

Just got engaged a few weeks ago and I keep hearing all these commercials for upcoming bridal fairs.  Quicken Loans, Signature of Solon, Sheraton, etc...  There are a ton of them.  Any suggestions on which one, if any to attend?

AdeleDazeem

I'd pass as well.  My sister and I thought it would be fun to go to a bridal show a few weeks ago.  "Just to see," we said.

Oh my... it was packed with brides who I'll categorize as "special," pushy moms, pushy vendors, veeery unhappy grooms, and a line that filled two hotel ballrooms and beyond.  After giving your information on a sheet that looked like a college application, they slapped "VIB" and "VIG" stickers on people (very important bride, very important groom).  My sister and I asked the closest person who worked there (who happened to be male) how to get out.  He laughed and said "take me with you."

The previous poster is correct: they are mostly populated by overpriced vendors who really want you business (and will do what it takes to get it).  I find word of mouth from people who have used vendors previously to be far more valuable.

jensanders76

Lots of fair are like that!  But there are a few that are  nice.  The smaller the fair, the better it is.   I live in OH too and the fair at SIgnature is great, so is the one at Bertram and Sheraton (rockside)  Pretty much all the others are a total zoo - especially the one at the ix center!.  Trust me I've been to them ALL over the past 4 years - bridesmaid 6 times:)

HKD817

I think once you've been to one you have been to them all. They are all typically the same. I recommend going to at least one just so you know what they are all about and you have the experience. Trust me, you won't want to go to another one after that. And yes the vendors are usually pricey. I can tell you that all of the vendors I am using for my wedding were recommended by friends, not one of them was a contact from a bridal expo. So that has to say something right?

But then again, it may be right up your alley, everyone is different. I'm in NY so maybe the expos in your area will be a little less crazy, doubt it though.

( and yes, once you give out your email/phone number, you will be receiving mail everyday, random phone calls and emails, it gets annoying after a while, these vendors can be pushy)

AlexaGrant

If there's a good local one - especially at a venue you are interested in, it might be useful to go.  I'd probably recommend against something not wedding related like Quicken Loans or one set up by a vendor directly.  Shows can be good to get ideas - I took pictures of some flower displays and table settings I liked with my iPhone at one.  I also enjoy tasting cake samples!