Wedding Fair: A Guide For Couples

Wedding fairs are a great opportunity for newly engaged couples to meet suppliers, get inspiration and discounts, and view venues. They are usually held at wedding venues or large conference centres, with suppliers hosting stalls, stages and displays. Couples can expect to see a wide range of suppliers, from photographers and cake makers to florists, dress designers, caterers, musicians and entertainers. Wedding fairs can be overwhelming, with some hosting over 100 suppliers, but they are a fun way to get lots of wedding planning done in one day.

Meet vendors and suppliers

Wedding fairs are a great opportunity to meet vendors and suppliers and get inspiration for your wedding day. They are usually held at wedding venues, conference centres, or large hotels, and are often a one-stop shop for everything from bridal gowns to entertainment.

At a wedding fair, you will meet vendors and suppliers across every category, including photographers, cake makers, wedding dress designers, florists, accessory designers, hair stylists, makeup artists, entertainers, musicians, caterers, stationers, and jewellers. You will have the chance to meet these vendors in person, ask questions, and make more informed decisions about your wedding. It is an opportunity to have face-to-face conversations with potential vendors, see their products and services first-hand, and make connections that will help you plan your dream wedding.

When attending a wedding fair, it is a good idea to bring a notebook and pen to jot down ideas and the details of vendors you are interested in. You can also collect business cards, leaflets, and sample products from the vendors. If you are attending with a specific goal in mind, such as finding a photographer or a wedding dress, this will help you focus your search and make the most of your time at the fair.

Wedding fairs can vary in size, with some having as few as 10 vendors and others boasting over 500 suppliers. The larger fairs may be more overwhelming, but they offer a wider range of choices. Smaller fairs allow for more quality time to speak with vendors and ask questions. Regardless of the size, wedding fairs are a great opportunity to meet and interact with vendors and suppliers, and to gather inspiration and information for your special day.

Sample food and drink

Wedding fairs are a great opportunity for couples to sample food and drinks, and get inspiration for their wedding day. Food and drink are a crucial part of the wedding experience, so it's important to choose the right options.

At a wedding fair, you can expect to find a variety of caterers and food suppliers, offering a range of options to suit different budgets and styles. From classic wedding dinners to more unique and creative dishes, there is something for everyone. Here are some ideas to expect:

Classic Wedding Dinner

A classic wedding dinner is a popular choice for a reason—it's simple, delicious, and filling. This option typically includes a combination of passed and set-station appetizers, followed by a main course such as chicken, potatoes, and vegetables, and, of course, a wedding cake for dessert.

Seasonal Menus

Seasonal menus are a great way to incorporate fresh, in-season ingredients into your wedding menu. For example, a fall wedding could feature a Thanksgiving-inspired menu with butternut squash soup and green bean casserole.

Barbecue

For a casual, rustic, or outdoor wedding, a barbecue is a perfect choice. It's a delicious and budget-friendly option, with choices ranging from classic burgers and hot dogs to chicken, sausage, or kebabs.

Taco Bar or Fajita Station

Food bars and stations are interactive and fun, allowing your guests to mingle while serving themselves. A taco bar offers a variety of fresh toppings, tortillas, and nachos, ensuring your guests can create their perfect meal.

Pasta Station

Pasta stations are a popular alternative to a buffet, offering a variety of pasta dishes, and sometimes even a carving station with roast beef or ham.

Breakfast or Brunch

Breakfast or brunch food is a cost-effective option, as it is typically less expensive than dinner, and there is usually a lower bar bill as guests tend to drink less during the day. A continental breakfast is the most budget-friendly option, while a full breakfast includes hot dishes like eggs and pancakes.

Appetizers Only

If you're looking to save on food costs, consider an appetizers-only reception. This can be paired with an open bar or a limited bar, and it's important to schedule the reception before or after typical dinner times to manage guest expectations.

Unique Options

If you're looking for something beyond the standard menu items, consider unique options like a custom ramen noodle bar, sushi stations, wood-fired pizza, or a raw bar with shrimp, oysters, and crab claws.

Desserts and Drinks

Don't forget the sweets! In addition to the traditional wedding cake, explore creative dessert options like a candy bar, doughnut wall, or a variety of pies. For drinks, you can offer a full bar, signature cocktails, or just beer and wine.

Wedding fairs provide a great opportunity to sample and explore these food and drink options, helping you create a memorable and delicious experience for your big day.

View the venue

Wedding fairs are a great opportunity to view a venue and get a feel for what your wedding could look like. Most wedding fairs are held at wedding venues, so it's a chance to view the venue informally and see it set up. If you've already chosen your venue, you could take your dad along to give him a chance to take a look.

While wedding fairs are a great opportunity to view a venue, they are often busy with lots of suppliers and other guests, so you might not get to see the venue in its best light or have much time to explore. If you're only interested in the venue, it might be worth looking for an open day or evening instead. These events tend to have no additional wedding suppliers, giving you the opportunity to walk around the dressed venue in your own time and speak to the wedding events team.

If you're not sure where to find wedding fairs or open days, venues often advertise events on their social media pages, websites, and banners outside their venue. There are also a number of websites that list upcoming wedding fairs in your local region.

Wedding fairs can be held at large conference centres, but most are at wedding venues, so it's a great chance to see the venue in person. If you haven't booked a venue yet, it's still worth attending a wedding fair to get inspiration and see what's on offer. You can start attending wedding fairs as soon as you become engaged!

If you're interested in a particular venue, it's worth bearing in mind that venues often have preferred suppliers, and a wedding fair is a great opportunity to meet them. You'll get to meet suppliers across every category, from photographers to cake makers, and musicians to dress designers. It's a chance to make personal connections and see if you click with your wedding team.

So, if you're planning a wedding, keep an eye out for wedding fairs and open days at venues near you. It's a great opportunity to view the venue, meet suppliers, and get inspired for your big day!

Get discounts and freebies

Wedding fairs are a great opportunity to get discounts and freebies. Most wedding fairs cover a range of suppliers, but you can also find more specialist fairs that cater to niche markets.

Discounts

If you're looking for discounts, wedding fairs are the place to be. You can often get exclusive discounts from vendors who are exhibiting at the fair. These can include discounts on bridal gowns, wedding cars, florists, caterers, and entertainment. Sometimes, vendors will offer discounts if you sign up for a consultation or provide your contact information. It's a great opportunity to negotiate and get a good deal.

Freebies

In addition to discounts, wedding fairs also offer a variety of freebies. These can include goodie bags, samples, and giveaways. For example, you might find cake samples from bakers, or beauty samples from makeup artists. There are also often competitions where you can win prizes, such as a free honeymoon or a live band for your wedding.

Other perks

As well as discounts and freebies, wedding fairs can offer other perks such as:

• The opportunity to meet vendors face-to-face and build personal connections.
• A chance to see products and services in person, rather than just online.
• A one-stop shop for all your wedding needs, saving you time and effort.
• A fun day out with your bridal party or friends.

So, if you're planning a wedding, definitely add a wedding fair to your to-do list! It's a great opportunity to get some amazing deals and make your wedding planning a little bit easier.

Be inspired by the latest trends

Wedding fairs are a great opportunity to get inspired by the latest trends and creative design ideas. From ethereal wedding dresses to retro cakes, here are some of the trends you can expect to see at wedding fairs:

Fashion Trends

The 2024 wedding fashion trends offer something for every taste and style. For brides, ethereal and bohemian vintage styles are in, with an emphasis on romanticism and luxurious details. Think fairy-inspired embroidery, crystal embellishments, and whimsical designs. Puff sleeves and bows are also making a comeback, adding a touch of 80s drama to the bridal look. For a modern twist, consider a non-white wedding dress in pink, yellow, or black. If you're looking for something unique, feathers are a whimsical and trendy addition to your bridal attire.

For the groom, classic suits and tuxedos are always in fashion. A blue suit is a versatile choice that complements any wedding palette, while linen is a popular fabric choice for its ease of care and versatility. Grooms can also opt for a classic tuxedo, paired with a vest or bow tie, or a linen suit for a more casual look.

Bridesmaids will be making a statement in 2024 with mismatched dresses, black dresses, and lively jumpsuits. Groomsmen can expect to see more grey and sand-colored suits, which offer a stylish alternative to the traditional black tuxedo.

Beauty Trends

When it comes to wedding hair and makeup, statement headpieces are all the rage. Think golden halos, oversized vintage hairpins, and bespoke crowns. Hollywood curls, braids, and glamour curls are also popular choices for brides who want to make a statement.

As for makeup, bold red lips and dramatic eyeliner are sure to make an impact. But if you prefer a more natural look, a nude makeup palette with neutral tones and a soft pop of color on the cheeks is always elegant.

Decor Trends

Wedding decor in 2024 is all about making a statement. Dramatic dance floor florals and hanging flower installations are sure to wow your guests. Metallics are also a popular choice, adding a touch of glam to your wedding venue. Clear acrylic decor is another trendy option, offering a sleek and modern look.

For a unique twist, consider a celestial wedding theme with starry lights, moon backdrops, and constellation-themed details. Potted plants and dried or bleached flowers are also making waves in the wedding decor scene, offering a more sustainable and budget-friendly option.

Food and Cake Trends

When it comes to wedding food, interactive action stations and monoportions are all the rage. Couples are opting for chef-assisted experiences, from grilled tropical fruit to live-toasted s'mores. Pre-ceremony cocktails are also a trendy way to kick off the festivities and get your guests in the mood for a party.

As for wedding cakes, retro cakes are taking the industry by storm. These cakes feature bold patterns, geometric shapes, and nostalgic elements like cassette tapes and neon signs. Delicate cakes in neutral tones are also a popular choice, as are black cakes, which offer a sophisticated and versatile option. And if you're looking for something unique, why not try a mini cake?

Unique Ideas

In addition to the latest trends, wedding fairs can also spark unique ideas that you may not have considered. For example, you might be inspired to include a live painter at your wedding, who can create a one-of-a-kind keepsake of your special day. Or perhaps you'll be intrigued by the idea of a secret cocktail menu, adding an element of mystery and surprise to your reception.

Whatever your style and vision, attending a wedding fair is sure to leave you feeling inspired and excited to plan your dream wedding.

Frequently asked questions