Maigen's Guide On How To *NOT* Become a Bridezilla
1. Have a group of fun and crazy, yet resiliently supportive bridesmaids.
2. Alcohol. Lots and lots of alcohol.
3. Frequent spa days.
4. Staying organized with a super-cute wedding planning binder.
5. Going to Bridal Extravaganza.
Ladies (and gents, I guess?), as important as all these steps are, I *cannot* stress that last one enough. If you're just starting out on your wedding planning journey, but you have literally NO clue whatsoever on how to even begin tackling this complicated, expensive, and seemingly insurmountable project... then The Bridal Extravaganza Show is an awesome starting point. Twice a year, usually in January and July, Bridal Extravaganza brings together anything and everything you'll need for your big day... and trust me, there's enough vendors there to fill up the George R. Brown Center. Especially since they ARE in the George R. Brown Center.
There are rows upon rows of booths for:
+ Ceremony/reception venues all over Houston, from down south in Texas City all the way up to Conroe
+ Photography/Videography
+ Wedding dresses and attire (e.g. Winnie Couture, David's Bridal, Alfred Angelo, etc.)
+ Music (e.g. DJs, small orchestra ensembles)
+ Guest Entertainment (e.g. photobooths, karaoke)
+ Cakes (yes, cake samples! Truffles and macarons too, if you're lucky!)
+ Décor; Table/Chair Linens
+ Event Planning
+ Honeymoon Planning (e.g. travel agents, cruise lines)
Plus, misc. needs -- make-up, tanning, custom clothes for the bridal party, ring cleaning, limos, catering (more free samples!), and even a few bars with drinks for purchase to keep you blushing brides buzzed and happy while you browse.
Two things. First, I reeeeally recommend bringing some people because it's always nice to have second-opinions and they can help carry all your flyers and pamphlets, plus it makes the convention more fun! Bring your maid of honor or a few bridesmaids, your parents, and definitely your fiancé. That said, the convention is crazy packed, so don't bring your whole posse. Second, try to get there as early as you can because you'll definitely use up all those hours perusing through this gigantic convention. I was on-site for 4 full hours and time STILL flew by!
All in all, I am 110% glad that I went to Bridal Extravaganza. I arrived with three main areas of focus - venue, dress, entertainment - and I left with invitations to multiple venue open houses and a clearer idea of what I wanted for the latter two. Since we've still got a way to go until our wedding date, I'm planning to visit the convention again in July and take advantage of those awesome discounted rates. Thanks for keeping me off the path of brutal Bridezilla-ism, Bridal Extravaganza! read more