Frequently Asked Questions from Brides:
How much does it cost?
There is no cost for brides, grooms, and their guests to attend our shows. However, tickets are required.
How do I get tickets?
You can reserve your free tickets online using the corresponding Guest Registration page. Scroll left and right through the calendar below to find an upcoming event:
You can reserve all of your tickets with one order. For example, you can select one bride ticket, one groom ticket, and 4 guest tickets, then proceed to checkout.
What do I do on the day of the show? How does it all work?
First of all, if you reserved tickets, please show up. Even though your tickets are free, our wedding professionals (especially the caterers) use our expected head count to plan how much food and how many free product samples to prepare. If you are unable to attend, we really appreciate you letting us know via email.
Be sure to bring your tickets with you to the show (or use the mobile app) so we can scan you in at the door. Some of our venues normally have an admission charge and you'll need your tickets to get in for free. This also helps us track attendance and plan for future shows. Just look for the check in desk when you arrive and we'll scan you in quickly.
As far as the show itself goes, there is no set timeline and you are free to come and go as you please during show hours (normally noon to 4pm). There is no fasion show or any other planned event that you must attend. Our shows are a chance for you to tour the venue, and talk to some of the area's best wedding professionals at your own pace and in a "no-pressure" setting. We want our shows to be a fun opportunity to get ideas and inspiration, have your wedding-related questions answered, and hunt for deals and discounts for your wedding and reception!
Will there be prizes, discounts, and special offers?
Generally yes - this is up to each individual wedding vendor, but most of them will offer a special discount at the bridal show. Many also offer door prizes or drawings for free products or services that you can sign up for during the show!
How many vendors will there be?
Typically 40 to 50, depending on the venue.
Can I see the list of vendors that will be there?
Yes - we encourage you to review the list of registered vendors so you can plan ahead for which ones you'd like to spend some time with. If you visit the Vendor Registration page for your event, and scroll all the way to the bottom, you'll find the list of all vendors who have registered for that show so far. Please note that the list of registered vendors will change often, especially as the date of the show nears.
What happens during the show?
During the show, your best bet is to spend time with the vendors you're interested in. For example, if you're looking for a wedding photographer, then you should make a special effort visit the photographers' booths - ask them questions, compare their services and prices, and learn about what they have to offer. If there are a few that you are really interested in, then feel free to share your contact info with them - they should be prepared to follow up with you after the show to set an appointment with you for a more in-depth consulation.
Am I expected to buy anything? Do I need to bring money?
While some vendors may sell their products at the show and you are certainly free to purchase anything you'd like, most vendors are just there to answer your questions and book follow up appointments with brides who request one. Our shows are a "no-pressure", fun environment for you to learn about wedding products and services. Bridal shows can be noisy and hectic at times, and there is no expectation that you'll be making major purchases or signing contracts during the show, so leave your checkbook at home!
That being said, you may want to bring some money for parking or to buy drinks at the cash bar - these vary from venue to venue.
What happens after the show?
After the show, you should expect to hear from vendors you expressed an interest in. You may receive emails or postal mail with special offers and discounts, and those vendors who you spoke to should follow up with you to set an appointment or answer any questions you may have.
Can I come back for another show?
Of course! You are always welcome back at any of our bridal shows! Many brides attend a show really early (like a year or more before there wedding) to get ideas, then attend additional shows as their wedding date draws closer to take advantage of our bridal show discounts and special offers.
Who can I call with more questions or concerns?
Contact Jeff at 727-235-7988 or jeff@smpl.events for other questions or more information!