After a fitful night of sleep, I woke up stressing about everything that is left to be done. Luckily, this weekend, What’s Up? is hosting its annual Bridal Expo. This will undoubtedly be the solution to all my wedding qualms. I have yet to book key vendors including hair and makeup, a florist, and a bakery so what better way to accomplish this by attending my work’s lavish event?!r
Before I was engaged, I often day dreamed about the what-ifs in life. If only I were the giddy ide, sipping the champagne and gawking at dresses as the models traipsed down the runway. That, at least, is what I dreamt about during my first experience at What's Up? Weddings Bridal Expo. It left so much for me to desire. In the fall, we introduced a second expo, at which time I transitioned from working the front desk to modeling in the fashion show. Talk about having major wedding fever after wearing satin and silk and dolling myself up with designer makeup and a trendy up-do.
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Now I'm the ide-to-be and will appreciate the Bridal Expo's value all the more. I'm telling you, you're gonna love it. For those of you who have never been to a idal show, here's what to expect. Upon arrival you are handed your goody bag. When a magazine puts on these events, this means you'll receive a copy of the latest weddings publication full of tips and vendor lists as well as heartwarming love stories of local ides and grooms. Just last night, my fiancé and I poured over a past issue of What's Up? Weddings which contained a sample wedding registry. That was a huge help as it reminded us of all the kitchen appliances and bedroom items we don’t have but will certainly need when entertaining guests!
This year, What's Up? Weddings is moving the expo's location to Loews Hotel. There, you'll get to indulge in wedding cake and bubbly, plus hors d'oeuvres from award-winning caterers. Don't judge if you spot me grabbing seconds! Now, drum roll please…. Through the grapevine I heard that one of our giveaways is a Mikimoto pearl necklace. Won't your mother-in-law be so impressed when you open the door to greet her at this year's Thanksgiving and she sees you being all classy and elegant wearing your pearls?! Don't miss the chance to win this $2600 valued prize! Another grand prize is a two-night stay at the Loews Pacific Hotel in Orlando, Florida. The package includes eakfast, evening hors d'oeuvres, beer, and wine for two. The sun and the sand are already calling my name! I haven't even picked a honeymoon location, so gosh forbid one of you win this prize and not me. I'll have to visit the vendor tables—several travel agencies will be eager to recommend hot spots for vacations with my new hubby!
If I haven't convinced you to come yet let me leave you with this. Our event is personal. It's not too big and you won't feel as if you're part of a cattle call. All too often ides are looking forward to these expo events and they decide to attend ones in large metropolitan areas. The sheer number of vendors can be overwhelming, and lines are undoubtedly long, affecting the length of time ides have to ask questions, visit tables, and view demonstrations. The whole point of attending an expo is to educate yourself on whom to hire for your special day, and help you make such personal decision. What's Up? Weddings Bridal Expo offers a blend of culinary, musical, beauty- and fashion-related experiences. You will have the chance to select from a variety of local vendors dedicated to making your wedding dreams a reality. Remember, if you're planning your wedding in the Annapolis, Eastern Shore or West County areas, it's important to meet vendors from your area who are familiar with the venues you'll end up booking and some of the other key players you'll be hiring. On your wedding day, you want things to run seamlessly. Choosing area vendors who are used to working weddings together will be the ticket to a smoothly run day. Sooth those idal nerves by grabbing your mom, your grandmother, your aunt, cousin or sister, best friend or idesmaid, fiancé if he's willing, and come see for yourself how helpful and fun What's Up? Weddings Bridal Expo promises to be.
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For more info, check out: http://weddings.whatsupmag.com/index.php/ idal-expo-2013
