T
hough all of the variables can seem overwhelming, preparing for the big day can be practically as exciting as the celebration itself. The cake, the dress, the invitation list and the music are just a few of the many choices for brides- and grooms-to-be to make, and bridal events and exhibitions make the process fun.
Typically, bridal shows offer access to a variety of vendors, allowing happy couples to interview prospective photographers or sample cakes and catering they might consider for their wedding. There are also fashion shows to give couples ideas on how they might like to be dressed and even services you might not expect, such as specialty linen rentals to cover your chairs.
Bridal events often offer terrifically fun dates with lots of complimentary hors d’oeuvres and adult beverages to enjoy while test driving the services that help take your wedding from a dream to reality.
Upcoming bridal events
Winter Wonderland Affair:
The Bell Event Centre, in the heart of Pendleton District, is celebrating the New Year with its first bridal show. Many exhibitors will be on-hand to assist couples in crafting unique and sophisticated affairs. Featuring the Man Cave Lounge for grooms and two bridal fashion shows sponsored by Kotsovo’s. $10 presale or $15 at the door. 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; runway show 1-3 p.m. Jan. 29. 444 Reading Road, Over-the-Rhine, 513-852-2787, www.belleventcentre.com.
Veils and Cocktails
: The Madison Event Center’s wedding event is a sensual delight offering samplings of gourmet hors d’oeuvres and a martini ice bar. There will also be a bridal fashion show previewing the cutting edge gowns of 2010. The exhibition, sponsored by Fabulous-Bridal Boutique, features two floors of some of the area’s finest wedding retailers. Prize packages are offered as well. $10. 6:30-9:30 p.m. Feb. 16. The Madison, 700 Madison Ave., Covington, 859-261-1117, www.thecovingtonmadison.com.
Bridalrama
: The first installment of Downtown’s twice-annual bridal show is scheduled for 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Feb. 26 and 27. Fashion shows by Bridal & Formal and Skeffington’s Formal Wear. $10 at the door or buy one, get one free at Skeffington’s locations. Duke Energy Center, 525 Elm St., Downtown, 859-331-3866, www.bridalrama.net.
Cincinnati Bridal Expo:
Featuring more than 80 area vendors exhibiting their wares and offering one-on-one consultations, the Expo is one of Cincinnati’s largest bridal events. $8. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Fashion shows by David’s Bridal & Men’s Wearhouse scheduled for 12:30 and 2:30 p.m. March 13. Savannah Center, 5533 Chappell Crossing Blvd., West Chester, 937-748-0247, www.cincinnatibridalexpo.com.
