Let the Show Go On!

When you get married, you get engulfed in this temporary culture of engaged couples and the industry that caters to them.  Everyone knows getting married is expensive, just mentioning you're getting married ups the price on (whatever chosen product here).  And there are no limits to vendors that offer said products.

That said, it is in my opinion, ESPECIALLY if you are getting married somewhere you aren't familiar with, that it is very worthwhile to attend a bridal show.  They are nationwide and seasonal, so you're guaranteed to have one within driving distance while you are engaged.  If you are having a shotgun wedding, the likelihood goes down pretty significantly though.

Why are bridal shows so great?  First off, everyone is vying for your attention and business.  There's free food and drinks, lots of chocolate, random fun freebies, even free subscriptions.  There's giveaways, (I won $100 off jewelry at one!), fashion shows, and almost everyone is in a great mood.  The vendors can cover all of your needs - in one place!  Venues, photographers, DJs, bands, caterers, you name it.  Don't get me wrong, it can be annoying seeing all of those vendors, but on the one hand it gives you a good price point, different options, and lots of times the vendors will give you great deals on their services or products.  This can be crucial to getting what you want and staying within budget.  You know those insurance companies that brag about being able to compare all other insurance companies rates on their site?  It's kinda the same thing.
Another great thing?  You don't need to pay to get in.  If you are a member of Wedding Wire, they send you emails to get free tickets.  A free show with free food and fun stuff with vendors hooking up discounts?  Who isn't into that?

Two Months to Go!

That's right - two months to go!  Two months and a million things to get done.  But, one day at a time.

B and I went down South and did a lot.  After a day of traveling we were able to get our engagement pictures taken, and they came out great.  Our photographer used to be a landscape photographer, so he was able to capture the trees just as we'd hoped.  We were tired, a little nervous, and did not take my own advise about having a drink.  That probably would have been the best thing we could have done to relax just a bit!

We also got to check out a musician I was interested in hiring for the ceremony.  We went out to this restaurant by the beach and posted up outside even though it was an unseasonably cold day.  It was worth it though, because he was awesome.  I can't wait to hear him play on our wedding day.  My biggest regret is that we won't get to hear him play at the cocktail hour, but I know that our guests will love it.

One thing I was very disappointed with was our florist.  She was very nice, and showed us the array of vases we are using, but she didn't have a sample of the bouquet.  Ladies, if you are planning your wedding, let me tell you to make sure you have a sample included in your contract!  The last thing you want to do is worry that the flowers won't be what you want.  If you don't care much about the flowers, then don't worry about it.  But if you're like most brides you'll want to see them.  If nothing else to get you excited about them!

Overall it was a very productive trip, and we have been just as productive after we got back.  As these crazy months fly by, I will be sure to keep you updated with the ins and outs.

XOXO