So how was the show?

Hey all!  So as promised I wanted to do an entry on the NWI Bridal Expo.  Last year I kind of got in at the last minute, threw some pictures in a photo album, and hoped for the best.  This year it was nice because Michelle and I did a booth together and could help each other.  Also, I took my time preparing.  Well sort of.  I prepared while trying to make fur wraps for winter brides who ordered on Etsy, so it was a bit hectic at times...but I'm not complaining.  I welcomed the work as it is not wedding season so it was nice to have the extra cash coming in.  :)  What was also nice is we had beautiful flowers surrounding us via Magda with Fleurishly Inc.  I don't know about you, but flowers always make me feel a little sunnier inside.

Anyway, this year it was really nice to know what to expect.  One thing I learned last year is how much set up sucks...

And ya know what?  It still does. 

Regardless we all managed to keep a smile on our face through the process.

It also helped that there were 3 of us to share the work load and help each other figure out how things looked best.  I got suddenly tired right before the brides were going to be let in, and my brain was a bit mushy, so Michelle and Magda made lots of suggestions on where to put what.  Thanks girls.  :)  So within a few hours we were finished...and things looked really amazing.

Michelle set up little themed tables so brides could get an idea of her decorating style.  I think it really showed what a versatile designer she is.  There was Moroccan, Vintage 1920's, Rustic Valentines, and a classic Black and white Glam....And the florals were just gorgeous!  I have to say though, my faves probably had to be the Moroccan...

And the Rustic Valentines...

Don't you just adore the little heart plates?  They actually said things too...One said "xoxo" and one said "love."  Too cute!

As for me, my heads got to make their debut appearance which I was really excited about.  I thought the whites and gold headbands from this year's collection really popped out on the black velvet.  :)  

Don't the little orchids look so cute on the table?  Thanks Magda!

 And I also printed out some faces of vintage women to display some of the pins and barrettes.  Thanks pinterest.  :)

 After we were done setting up, it was time to "woo" the awesome brides!  We were ready...

And we were off...

Maybe it's just as I said, that I knew more of what to expect this year, but I really felt like I got a chance to talk with brides more one on one this year.  And trust me, it wasn't because it wasn't as busy.  In fact, I think there were even more brides this year!

I managed to take this really quick in between the madness...this was actually a lull in the day!  But even with all that madness, there were lot's of sweet girls that really appreciated what I had to offer and I was really glad I made the decision to be a part of the day.

 There were also many girls that loved the fact that they could get a custom design and be totally one of a kind for their day.  I have to admit, I'm so glad to offer that option too, but all the love and sweet feedback I got for the pieces I designed myself warmed my heart the most.

I met this cutie patootie bride who asked to try on one of my bridal caps...

Isn't she so adorable in it??  She looks like a little 20's flapper with her awesome haircut and it fit like a glove.  Her mom even came back and talked to me again at the end of the show.  So sweet.  :)

All in all, it was a very successful day and I am looking forward to working with some awesome girls in hopes of making them look totally original for one of the best days in their life.


On top of a really warm crowd, I got to talk to a few really great vendors, and Beck's Crown Bakery fed us their awesome donuts in the morning.

I guess the only other thing to report is that I made it home safely and I'm now currently enjoying my beautiful orchids from Magda on my own kitchen table...Dang these things live forever!

So anyhoo, I hope you got an idea of what the show was like.  If you are getting married within the coming years, I definitely recommend coming out to the show.  It's a lot to take in, and yes you are going to get a zillion emails from all of us vendors, but in the end it's worth it.  You will get a lot of ideas and it's just a fun day.  If your fiance doesn't want to come, bring your girls and have a free mimosa on me.  :)  See ya'll there next year!

XO
Christina