An engagement brings the excitement of planning,
researching and gathering details to start the process of planning the perfect
wedding. Selecting the theme of your wedding and the colors for the flower
arrangements may seem simple but it’s usually the small necessities that set
the tone on that special day. Today, I attended the St. Louis Bridal Show at
the St. Charles Convention Center. The event was well organized for the
bride-to-be on her mission to plan out that special day. Each table was
prepared to present their services from beautiful bridal bouquets to samples of
tasty reception treats. It was nice that some of the vendors offered one-stop
shop services as well for the bride.
Although, I enjoyed the wonderful set-ups and music coming from the various
DJ tables; it was quite overwhelming. It can be challenging for a bride-to-be
to make decisions on a venue, florists and bridal salons when you’ve been
offered information on 4 or more for each of the same services.
I realized after stopping at the first 8 tables it would be in my best
interested to get more personal with each representative. Here are a few ideas
that came to mind following my observation:
First thing first brides-to-be:
Create and set your budget. Do whatever you can to stay within the
lines that you and your significant other have agreed on. You need to be
willing to give up somethings to have what you desire the most on your special
day. Everything else will come out amazing for you. I’m sure of this.
Secondly: Have your mom, mother-in-law, sister, close friend and/or
maid of honor right by your side to assist when making decisions. I learned
this today by having my friend with me. Your friend should be encouraging once
your decisions are made. Be confident in knowing what you desire but be open to
accepting the fact that your vision may change. You need someone there to
remind you that everything will be fine. Take a breath!
Selecting the right venue for your wedding:
Ask the vendor about space accommodation. It’s helpful to know as a
bride-to-be that the venue offers more than one area or space within their
facility for you to host your wedding or reception. Outdoor weddings and
receptions should always be taken into consideration when having a spring-fall
season wedding.
Also, be open to a smaller intimate wedding when hosting a smaller
party of guests. Remember that the earlier you book your appointments and tour
of your preferred venues the sooner you will be able to lock in your date.
Narrow your venue choices down to three choices based on location, cost and
space. Once you have your venue locked in and secured then your vision will
become clearer. Trust me attending a bridal show can make things seem a bit
foggy when planning.
Your vendor may become a one-stop shop for all the services you need.
Some vendors may offer a checklist form that breaks down prices on meal plans,
open bar, music, invitations, photographers and floral. This will buy you
sometime in traveling or researching for additional services that they already have available.
Dress selecting process:
Your dress outside of the venue is the main attraction. Nothing lets
everyone know who matters on this day more than your presentation. Your dress
and your mood will set the tone for the day.
Leave negative, unhappy and opinionated people behind on the day you go
to try on dresses. You cannot be confident and happy in your selection if
negative vibes are flying around during your appointment. Be prepared to write
your –“Misery Not Allowed” sign at your appointment for those interested in
joining.
Allow yourself time in advance to find the right dress so that
alterations can be made before the wedding. Review bridal planners, bridal
gowns and accessories online prior to your appointment.
Lastly, remember that anything can go south before your wedding day and
it will still be perfect.
STL Venues –
Andre’s Banquet Facilities and
Catering
Andre’s offers a one-stop shop plan for their clients. (Invitations,
Limousine Services, Music, Tuxedos, Photographers, Reception and Floral
Designer. www.andresbanquet.com / P:
314-894-2622
Bristol Seafood Grill
Services include banquet, wedding rehearsal dinner, reception and
bridal luncheon.
Contact: Private Events Manager, Vicki Houska, E: vhouska@bristolseafoodgrill.com
/P: 314-567-0272
Saint Charles Convention Center
Contact: Connie Barber, Catering Sales Manager E: cbarber@scmocc.com P: 636-669-3006
STL Florists—
For Ever Roses
Contact: Karen McGowen or Michelle Fuhrmann /Site: www.foreverroses.weebly.com / P:
636-575-1996
Schnucks Florist & Gifts
Contact: Dena Fetsch, FTD Master Designer/Bridal Consultant /E: drfetsch@schnucks.com /P: 314-997-2444
STL Make-up & Hair Services—
Eye Do STL
Contact: Scheduling Coordinator, Kim Stahlheber / E: scheduling@eyedostl.com /P:
636-541-4618
Belleza Bridal Hair Salon
Call for appointment: 630-300-3437
STL Bridal Shops—
The Ultimate Bride- Bridal Salon
Schedule appointment online or by calling: www.theultimatebride.com /P:
314-961-9997
Frew’s Bridal & Formal Wear
Site: www.frewsbridal.com /P:
618-466-8820
