HAMLET — One of the most exciting times in a woman’s life is the day that she gets engaged to the person of her dreams. The day when her soul mate makes a grand declaration of their love for her, and asks to spend forever together.
But after the initial excitement of the popped question wares off, the realization of the tremendous task of planning a wedding sets in.
With the national average cost of a wedding being over $25,000 and including nearly 120 guests, figuring out where to start the planning process can be intimidating to even the most event savvy brides.
Many find themselves struggling with where to begin the planning for their noteworthy nuptials. Should it be the theme? The date? Or the venue? What about the food? The entertainment? Or the flowers?
But for the blushing brides to be of the Piedmont area, there is no need to stress, because help is on its way.
Coming this Sunday, February 25th to the Cole Auditorium, is the 7th Annual Piedmont Bridal Show.
Expecting a crowd of between 200 and 200, the afternoon event will last from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., and is tailored to all brides, grooms, wedding parties, and event planners alike. Admission is just $2.00 per person, and is open to anyone 18 years of age and older.
“The goal of the show,” according to event organizer, Sharon Nichols, “is to gather local merchants together for an event to show brides and grooms what is available. Many people who plan weddings often think they need to go to Raleigh or Charlotte to find everything they will need, although that isn’t the case.”
At the event, attendees will have the opportunity to meet and learn more about the goods and services provided by local wedding professionals and merchants. Everything from caterers, venues, DJs, and Décor to florists, tuxedo stores, photographers, and registries, to even lighting companies, wedding consultants, live musicians, and of course, the perfect dress, will all be showcased that afternoon.
“This will be an elegant, lovely event, and people should come regardless of when their wedding is,” said Nichols. “It’s such a wonderful shopping experience that they can plan the entire wedding at the show.”
“And,” added Nichols, “there will be prizes given away to the brides.”
The first 25 of the anticipated 70 brides to arrive will receive a special goodie bag.
But the prizes don’t stop there. Happening throughout the entire afternoon, several lucky ladies will win incredible door prizes that will help make their budget go farther and their wedding planning process run smoother. Plus, one lucky lady will take home the grand prize package, which will be drawn at the event’s conclusion at 4:00 p.m..
Brides will receive one entry into these drawings upon their arrival and registration for the show, while brides who pre-register for the event will receive an additional bonus entry.
Of course, such an event like this would not be possible without the help and support of its corporate sponsors, Dorsett Printing, Richmond Community College, The Bridal Nook, Belk, the Richmond Observer, Ward Productions, and Coldwell Banker.
“We have tried to cover all possible services and the Exhibitors who are coming are excellent providers. This will be a fun afternoon and if you know anyone who is getting married, tell them to come,” concluded Nichols.
For more information and to pre-register, head over to www.piedmontbridalshow.com.
