Photo: Sweetretreat.ca

Having already navigated my way through one bridal show (which I doubt will be my last) here are a few words of wisdom that I think every bride-to-be should have before getting swept up in bridal show madness.

1. Bring Your Partner-to-Be
I can’t tell you how many women I overheard saying, “I wish he was here, I can’t decide on these things by myself!” as they walked around with girlfriends and moms. While wedding shows are really just for inspiration, it makes sense to have your partner come along so that you don’t have to attempt to relay a mountain of information about DJs, invitations and eleven-tiered cakes when you get home. (If it helps, tell him/her there will be cake samples to test. Food is an excellent motivator.)

2. Leave Your Credit Card At Home
Did I need to purchase a $200 flat iron at a wedding show? Probably not. But after three hours of wandering around, I was so grateful to the woman who asked me to sit down while she did a demo on my wavy locks, I decided I either had to make a purchase, or marry her. Do yourself (and your bank account) a favour and keep the Visa stashed at home in case you feel the urge to impulse buy.

3. Say “Maybe” to The Dress
Yes, there are some fantastic deals on wedding gowns at bridal shows. But if it’s your first show, don’t feel pressured to pick up a dress just because it’s a steal at $150. Look around and figure out what kind of dress you want first, then see if it’s available for a discount at a show. Dress booths are also a great opportunity to get ideas!

4. Don’t Let Yourself Be Bullied
In a building packed with vendors, it’s no secret that everyone is trying to sell you on something. Weddings are a huge moneymaking business, and everyone wants to be your first choice. But don’t let aggressive salespeople push you into anything you’re not comfortable with. If you’re not interested, politely let them know it and just keep walking.

5. Beware the Chocolate Fountain
There will likely be at least one chocolate fountain demonstration at every wedding show you attend. Ah, the chocolate fountain. Totally luxe and awesome, right? Not when there are 100 people in line to dip a marshmallow on a toothpick, friends. It’s messy, it’s chaotic, and I’m pretty sure that manning it is the most stressful gig in the whole place. So tread carefully, and remember to stash a Tide to Go in your purse, just in case.

Any bridal show pros out there? I’d love to hear your tips! For a list of upcoming bridal shows in the GTA, check out The Perfect Wedding Guide.