Sunday’s I Do! Bridal Soiree at Hotel ZaZa is the hottest ticket in town…especially since tickets are officially GONE. That’s right, I Do! @ ZaZa is totally sold out. As in completely. As in NO tickets will be available at the door, so if you don’t have tickets already, please don’t show up hoping to get in. Nothing makes us sadder than a sad bride.
Instead, DO get a jump on tickets for the January I Do! Bridal Soiree at the InterContinental Houston, which will go on sale later this week. Make sure to “Like” us on Facebook, where we’ll announce the moment they do!
And if you happen to be one of the brides who’ll join us and more than 40 of Houston’s most innovative and exciting wedding vendors and experts for three unforgettable hours on Sunday, check out these tips on getting the most out your show, from a true, in-the-know pro: Weddings in Houston publisher Radhika Day.
What/whom should I bring with me to the I Do! Bridal Soiree @ Hotel ZaZa?
Radhika Day: You should ideally bring your fiancé so you can enjoy the planning process together and pick the right vendors who fit your personalities. It’s also a great opportunity for you two to enjoy several hours of fun together. If your groom is not available then you should bring your mom or a close friend who is helping plan the wedding. You should come armed with your calendar and a list of questions for vendors so you can consult and make appointments with those you like, right there on the spot.
What do I need to do upon arrival at the show?
RD: When you arrive at check-in for the event, you will need to register on one of our convenient laptops. It only takes a moment to register, and only brides, not their guests, need to register. Once you complete registration, you’ll get your fabulous I Do! swag bag and show program. And then…your off!
What’s the best way to make sure I don’t miss anything at the show?
RD: Come early and be prepared to stay for the entire afternoon. There is so much to see and experience—meeting the top vendors in town, browsing gorgeous displays, touring Hotel ZaZa’s amazing event spaces, enjoying the I Do! reception. Three hours is not a lot of time, but if you arrive on time and stay for the full show, you’ll have a chance to experience everything. Plus, you do need to be present to win our fabulous door prizes!
What kinds of questions should I be prepared to ask vendors?
RD: Ask questions that will help you get a sense if they are a good fit for your personality and tastes. Also ask if they are available on your preferred wedding date, and find out if their price points are more or less within your budget. And if you like them, make sure to schedule an appointment for some time within the next few weeks after the show.
Any show no-no’s?
RD: Please no flip-flops, shorts, cut-offs, etc.—“smart casual” attire is appropriate for this luxury show. While we love children, the I Do! Bridal Soiree is not an appropriate place for youngsters. Please do not bring infants, babies or children. No strollers will be allowed. Most importantly, come with ideas, but not ones that are so set in stone that you aren’t open to other possibilities. You never know, after all, what might inspire you! Bring an open mind, and be ready to be dazzled by stunning displays and exceptionally talented vendors.
What’s the best way to follow up with vendors I like, after the show?
RD: Express your interest with a quick phone call and/or email, and set up a face-to-face appointment with the vendor to discuss your wedding plans in detail. Houston’s top vendors are very much in demand and have limited open dates. To avoid disappointment, secure your dates early. Most importantly, let them know you found them at Weddings in Houston I Do! bridal show, so you can avail yourself of any show specials or promotional deals.
And one more thing: If you enjoy the show or see something you like, we would love for you to take pictures and post them on your Facebook page and on Twitter. Share your excitement with friends and family…and with US. We’d love to hear from you –what you liked most (and what, if anything, you’d like to change). Post your comments on this and other show-related Houston Wedding Blog posts and on our Facebook posts. We put our hearts and souls into our signature event, and nothing makes us and our vendors happier than hearing how much you loved it!
