Recently I attended the Grand Wedding Show in Dunedin. Since I am getting married later this year I thought the show would be helpful for me to gather ideas for the elusive ‘Dream Wedding’ fantasy but I was disappointed in the show…
Weddings Dunedin Style
Recently I attended the Grand Wedding Show in Dunedin. Since I am getting married later this year the show was helpful for me to gather ideas for the elusive ‘Dream Wedding’ fantasy many brides-to-be aspire to.
On the day, 1300 visitors attended the show. The number of grooms attending on their own has increased from last year highlighting a new trend emerging. The groom showing an active interest in wedding planning appears to be on the increase. I have noticed feedback of this kind on the www.weddings.co.nz forum which I frequently peruse for all subjects wedding-related.
Guests were greeted with a glass of Alan Scott bubbly to set the party scene. This year I did notice a downturn in vendors. I imagine this relates to the global recession which has impacted many businesses. I was disappointed wedding boutiques and photographers dominated the show. Both are very important features of a wedding however I felt brides needed more options for cakes (there were only two vendors present) and florists were not highly represented. Freebies and samples were few and far between however I did love my single red rose given to me by photographer Robyn Gray – it was a beautiful gesture for us brides and I heard wonderful comments around the room about the beautiful roses.
At 11am we were treated to a parade of dresses by www.dalvivo.co.nz, www.jetaime.co.nz, www.bridalspecialists.co.nz and www.elitebridal.co.nz. This year’s parade was a cut down version compared to last year and I left me wanting more. A special mention must be made about 4Ever After Bridal of Invercargill. Their dresses are beautiful, and they are one of a kind in Invercargill with people travelling from the North Island to check out their great variety of wedding gowns. See www.4everafterbridal.co.nz.
The main prize up for grabs organised by MORE FM was a $6,000 honeymoon prize pack donated by Wanaka Lake House www.wanakalakehouse.co.nz. The lucky winner was Kirsty Morris.
I came away from the show with mixed feelings. Next year I’d like the show to be bigger, more interactive and vibrant. I have plenty of information to look through and consider. I am one step closer to the dream dress and I we have chosen a great photographer. Bring on the 4th of December for the big day!
Auckland brides can attend the Grand Wedding Show on Sunday 11th of April, Level 5 Sky City Convention Centre. Tickets are $15.00. www.weddingshow.co.nz
By Kirsty MacDonald, March 2010.
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