Bridal Shows

I read on another budget wedding blog the other day that brides should stray away from bridal shows because they actually cost you money! I'm sorry but I have to call BS on this one. Most bridal shows are actually a GREAT way to SAVE money on your big day. Vendors from all over the area meet in one place to showcase couples with what they have to offer them for their weddings. Many vendors and bridal shops give special discounts to couples meet them at bridal shows and some even give away free wedding items! Not only that, but many offer free admission for the couple and a guest if you visit the show's website. 

My mom, sister Jennifer, and myself attended the Gateway Bridal Show in Collinsville, Illinois, last year shortly after I got engaged. We were all able to get in for free. We were able to find some great local vendors that were offering fabulous deals on items Thomas and I need for our special day. While I was there, I won a $250 gift certificate to Savvi Formal Wear (which also offer free Groom's tux rental with 5 other paid rentals for really big savings plus deals on accessories and invitations). I also won a free crystal headband! Oddly enough, this is really similar to the headband I almost paid $50 for at a bridal salon. 

I was also able to meet the owner of a bridal salon in my area that I had no clue even existed. We made an appointment right there at the bridal show for me to come by the salon and try on wedding gowns. Check out my gown post for more information on my gown purchasing experience.

 Last, but certainly not least, I was given a voucher for $100 off my table linen rental at a local party supply store. They offer teal linen napkins and the ivory pintuck table cloths I was hoping for! 

Bottom line and the purpose of this posting.... going to the bridal show ended up saving me over $400! So I'm not sure why the other blogger thought bridal shows were a bad idea. Maybe she just didn't take the time to visit the website for free admission for the bride.