Fashion & Beauty

Bridal Show Tips From SmartBride

At SmartBrideBoutique.ca, we know weddings are expensive and we're here to help!

We connect local brides past and present to buy, sell and save on gently used and new wedding items – like bridal gowns, veils, bridesmaid dresses, shoes, jewellery, invitations, decorations and more. You meet up with women in your own city, inspect items in person, try them on and then make a deal.

Experts at creating lavish style on a budget, we have the scoop on all the upcoming bridal shows!

You’ll find every kind of wedding vendor including photographers, venues, caterers, makeup artists, bakeries, travel agents and graphic designers – so it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Here are our tips for the January/February wedding shows:

• Go in with a plan. Narrow the focus of your visit to researching a few key decisions like your invitations, or reception decor. It’s much easier to navigate the crowds and avoid sensory overload when you have a mission.
• Unless you have a very (and we really do mean VERY) eager fiancé, give them the afternoon off in favour of taking your closest advisors.
• Print a few sheets of address labels with your name, address, e-mail and telephone number. Several booths will be running contests, so instead of standing around filling out ballots, simply stick your label on the ballot and keep on moving!
• Take good notes and pictures. You can always create your favourite lavish styles from the show on a reasonable budget by borrowing, buying second hand, and scouting for sales.

• At the National Bridal Show: Brides get in for FREE
• At The Wedding Show: Get $3 off with coupon code TWS09