Brides can gather inspiration and pertinent information by attending local and regional bridal shows, which puts them in touch with potential vendors. In one place, brides can shop and compare products, services and prices with numerous vendors that specialize in every aspect of wedding planning. But don’t go unprepared: Get organized. Have a game plan. Follow up with vendors. Act on research quickly.
Below is information on upcoming Southern California bridal shows for the remainder of the year. Several online sources post bridal shows and bridal expos for 2011 in California and states throughout the country, such as OneWed, Great Bridal Expo and Here Comes the Guide.
October 17: Premier Bridal Expo at the Radisson Newport Beach. Everything you need to plan your perfect day – see, shop and sample. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; $5 presale, $10 at the door; www.premierbridalexpos.com.
October 17: Carmel Mountain Ranch Bridal Faire at the Carmen Mountain Ranch Country Club in San Diego. The event features more than 50 of the areas best wedding services and locations. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; $10 at the door, free with online registration; www.allwedsites.com
October 24: The Temecula Wedding Event & Holiday Party Show at the Pechanga Resort. The event features hundreds of vendors from Temecula Wine County. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; $10 at the door, free with online registration; www.temeculaweddingevent.com
October 31: Expo Bridal Events Fair at Universal City Hilton. Expo Bridal Events brings brides and vendors together. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; $7 plus free guest with online registration; www.expobridal.com
October 31: Wedding Party Bridal Show at Hyatt Regency Mission Bay in San Diego. The show’s theme is “Love Wonderland: a postcard to San Diego.” Noon to 5 p.m.; $20, with half price coupon online; www.sandiegoweddingparty.com
November 7: Bridal Showplace at the Hilton Hotel in Pasadena. Meet some of So Cal’s most prestigious wedding professionals. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; $5 at the door; www.bridalshowplace.net
November 7: Premier Bridal Show at the Los Angeles Marriott. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; $5 presale, $10 at the door; www.premierbridalexpos.com
November 21: The Premier Bridal Event at The Langham Huntington Hotel in Pasadena. Vendors include celebrity florists, premier event designers and other specialty wedding vendors. Noon to 5 p.m.; $15 presale, $20 at the door; www.harsanik.com/bridal-show
December 2: “It’s a Bride Thing” Bridal Soiree at the Museum of Ventura County. A source of ideas and inspiration for engaged couples. 6 p.m.; $6 presale, $10 at the door; www.soulmatesbridalconnection.com
Tags: bridal expo, bridal shows, brides, wedding planning

