The call that really gave me the most of my current cynicism was one of the first. The booth was for "The Bridal Registry" and they called to tell me I had won free honeymoon accommodations. I really never win things, so I was so excited. Then my sister (who had attended with me) got the same call. Turns out you have to attend a 90 minute demonstration for overpriced cookware first. Then they give you only two nights at a resort where no airfare or anything is included. Yeah, I didn't "win" anything. I hated them a little for getting my hopes up as we are not sure right now how we're going to pay for our wedding--let alone a honeymoon.
One booth was for a chiropractor's office that offers massage and some weight loss services. I didn't even visit their booth. After getting a call for a few straight days with no voicemails, I answered one of their calls. They asked that I come to a bride's day. I said that I would see if I could. The woman said "We will sign you up for tomorrow then. You can come at 10am. We'll see you then!" I found it presumptuous, but I just said okay and got off of the phone. I didn't go. I don't have money for silly things like that. I kid you not, they called at least twice a day for about two weeks and NEVER left a voicemail. Most of them use that same method. Personally, I find it completely unprofessional and I will absolutely not consider any business who is free to call five times a day but too busy to leave a message. It shows a complete lack of concern for prospective clients.
One more horror story: I won't name the photographer because I understand she was just trying to drum up business, but again, I had not registered at her booth. She called and I answered. I already knew she was out of my price range, but trying to be gracious, I told her that I remembered her and I had grabbed one of her business cards at the show. She responded with: "Actually, I didn't have a business card. I had pieces of paper with the information." Lesson 1, lady, don't be accusatory. Even if I did remember you, the likelihood of remembering which type of paper advertising you used amidst hundreds of other vendors is slim. I told her my wedding is more than a year a way and we haven't even begun to consider photographers yet but that when I did I had her information and would be in touch. She continued to ask about what kind of photographer I wanted, etc. I told her that again, I didn't know yet, but I might give her a call when I've entered that stage of planning. She asked if she could send me an email with her information since she didn't show that I had registered with her and she wanted to make sure I had it. I acquiesced and gave her my email and then five minutes later was finally able to gracefully get off of the phone. I understand it's your business, but there's no need to harass. She was unbelievably pushy and rude.
I'm going to my second bridal show this coming Sunday and I will change my methods dramatically. My recommendations are as follows:
1) DO register for giveaways (unless it's for something you don't want or need...like a Brazilian wax. *shudder*)--you never know what you could win!
2) DO register at booths that have services that seem to be in your price range and fit with your theme/ideas.
3) DO sample any food you like, use the photo booths, and just generally have fun.
4) DO take the time to look at what a booth has to offer before giving them your information.
5) DO be polite. The representatives from the vendors really compete and put themselves out there. You don't have to be rude. Be gracious and decline in a way that doesn't scream "Go screw yourself!" They're just doing their jobs and there's no need to be a bridezilla.
6) DON'T register at booths just because they ask you to and wave their clipboard in your face oh-so-eagerly.
7) DON'T wait to buy your tickets until you get there. They may not run out, but every bridal show I've seen gives discounts for buying online ahead of time and you don't need to waste time registering by hand. The Knoxville News Sentinel Bridal and Beyond show is doing BOGO for their tickets online! Saved myself and my family $20. Every bit counts.
8) DON'T eat the first few things you see without thinking. It will probably be some form of cake and you will feel nauseated. Not to mention you might miss out on some better cake further back in the building. haha.
9) DON'T bring anyone with you who isn't excited about being there--it will only bring you down. I am fortunate to have gone with my wonderful mom and sister and they made it just fantastic.
10) Lastly, DON'T wear uncomfortable shoes (unless you're a seasoned pageant competitor or something) because you will be doing a lot of walking and it really doesn't matter if you look "bridal" at these events. I made the mistake of thinking my heeled boots would be comfortable...and got blisters.
Okay, that's it! Sorry this one was kind of long. If you have anything to add, please feel free to comment. I'm hoping I'm not just spinning my wheels here and maybe there are some kindred-spirit-brides out there. :)
