A wedding fair is an event where wedding suppliers come together to showcase their services and products. Offering everything from bridal gowns and catering options to florists and photographers, wedding fairs are an exciting way for couples to find inspiration and set plans for their big day.
If you have been typing ‘wedding fairs near me' into a Google search engine, you'll have quickly realised there are many different types of wedding fairs, each offering something slightly different. This guide to wedding fairs will help you find the showcase for you, whatever stage you are at with your wedding planning journey…
Why should you visit wedding fairs?
Attending a wedding fair can be beneficial for several reasons. Firstly, you will be flooded with inspiration. Wedding fairs are brimming with creative ideas and trends you might not have considered. Attending a wedding fair can help refine your vision, giving you the confidence to start making concrete plans.
Secondly, you will meet a variety of wedding suppliers on the same day, all under one roof, from florists, to photo booths and even wedding content creators. Meeting suppliers face-to-face allows you to get a feel for their personality and their work. Plus you can get a quick answer to any questions you might have.
Lastly, you can make bookings and set plans in motion at the wedding fair. Many suppliers offer special deals or exclusive discounts throughout a wedding fair. Booking suppliers at events can be a great way to keep within your wedding budget.
Different types of wedding showcases
There are several types of wedding fair, each catering to different needs. One that most couples attend is an open day. Hosted by the venue, at an open day couples have the opportunity to tour the venue with friends and family. Whether you have already booked or you are searching for your dream wedding venue, at an open day you will see the venue set up for a wedding day and meet suppliers that the venue recommends.
Couples typing into Google ‘wedding fairs near me' are likely to find local wedding fairs. These wedding fairs could be held at a wedding venue, exhibition space or showground. Usually free to attend, they are ideal for couples looking for inspiration and to find suppliers and services close to home.
National wedding shows are large-scale events that draw couples and suppliers from around the country and offer a wide range of services, products and inspiration. They are a ticketed event, offering a complete overview of what's available and achievable for your wedding day.
Trunk shows are held in bridal boutiques. Typically, the boutique will showcase a designer collection of wedding dresses or accessories. The collection might include items that aren't usually available in stores. These events give brides the chance to see and try on a wider range of styles or limited-edition pieces and potentially find their dream wedding dress for a bargain price!
When do wedding fairs take place?
Wedding fairs are held throughout the year and, although it can vary, they generally take place in the off-peak wedding season. Wedding venue open days are usually held on a Sunday, due to Saturday wedding bookings. But larger wedding fairs and shows are usually held across a weekend in early spring or late autumn. It's a good idea to search for national wedding fairs and book your tickets in advance.
Who should attend a wedding fair with you?
After the excitement of choosing your wedding party, you might want to take lots of people to a wedding fair, but having too many opinions might become more than a little confusing. Instead, take different people to different wedding events.
Naturally, you will want your partner to join you at any wedding fairs you visit to book a supplier. You might take your parents to venue open days, to see your venue and feel involved in your plans. And your bridesmaids will be excited to head to a bridal trunk show with you.
Wedding fairs near me
Wedding fairs offer a wealth of resources and opportunities for couples planning their weddings. Whether you're in the early stages of planning or finalising the details, attending these events can be a fun and exciting part of wedding planning. Find wedding fairs near you with our wedding fair diary, which lists almost every UK wedding show, fair, venue open day and even trunk shows; so you can find the perfect event to attend as you plan your big day.
