Dance it Up!

One thing to consider if you are getting married, I find that having a DJ is the best of both worlds. Having a live band is great, but who is there to MC and make sure the flow is going right. With a DJ, they are your point person and make sure your reception flows and things happen on time. OR that's what you are paying them for aren't you?~! Before you sign that contract, make sure what you are getting what you want.

Top 6 things you should have from your DJ
1. Meeting with them to tell him your yes songs and no songs. So if your aunt request the chicken dance they know it's off limits. (telling her kindly the bride and groom aren't taking requests)

2. Make sure the DJ isn't the party. Most people don't need and like for you to tell them to come dance. Their music should do the talking.

3. Make sure their equipment isn't too flashy and loud. (I know Grandma would appreciate you not sitting her next to the speaker too...)

3. They should meet with you also to go over your schedule. Since they MC most of your reception they should make sure the names of the wedding party are right, they know the song to your cake cutting and last song. Having a schedule set up makes sure you are both on the same page.

4. Can they work longer than you paid them? Sometimes your party could go a little longer and your dad may want to bring out the check book to show off his moves! Discuss beforehand to make sure with your venue and DJ!

5. Make sure you have a contract, even if you hire your friend. You always want to make sure you have something in writing, so if they are sick and can't show up they have a back up. Or you could get your money back!

6. DJ's make your party. If they are good they should have your party dancing all night long and want their business card for your next event!

I have been to too many weddings where the DJ ruined the wedding. If you know your crowd pick out your DJ accordingly. Look at their reviews online, testimonials or on www.weddingwire.com. If you go to a wedding or party and like the DJ make sure to get their contact info. Everyone's style is different, but sometimes you get what you pay for!

"Best Booth Award" for January 8, 2012

We would like to tell all of our sponsors and vendors thank you for being a part of one of our biggest shows this past Sunday at the Charlotte Convention Center. We had record breaking attendance and had wonderful participation from our vendors. With over 212 vendors on the show floor we would like to congratulate 3 that really stood out above the others. Last year we decided to have a competition for a "Best Booth Award". We had a great response and have decided every January show to make sure to give out a 1st, 2nd and 3rd prize.

The Bridal Showcase team looked over the floor and had a very hard time deciding on just three! We have based our choices on creativity, good use of their space, being inventive, and being inviting to guests.

1st Place- Pink Petunia Designs
You have won 50% off your booth for August 5, 2012 Showcase

2nd Place- Dianne Personett Photography
You have won 30% off your booth for August 5, 2012 Showcase

3rd Place- Vesuvius Vineyards
You have won 10% off your booth for August 5, 2012 Showcase

Thank you to all of our vendors who made sure to bring their "A" game and who made sure to step up their designs!~ Make sure to check out our Facebook page and Weddingwire.com to see more pictures of booth designs.

Top 10 reasons to attend The Bridal Showcase

1. You are engaged FINALLY! Every one is going to ask about you and your special wedding day! When you arrive we will give you a lanyard with your name and wedding date as well as some other goodies! There are also "Bride" shirts to purchase to make sure everyone knows your the bride!

2. You can be eligible to win a ton of prizes and giveaways- like Bridal Photography Sessions, dinnerware, and gift cards from a number of vendors just to name a few. (must register to win)

3. We have over 200 of the Carolinas top wedding professionals ready to show off their stuff and impress you.

4. You can be eligible to be in the contests to win- wedding cake, hair and makeup for your bridal party, bridal Portrait Session, bachelorette Party, and bridal and formal wear for you and your wedding party! (Your registration is your entry for the chance to participate)

5. Taste delicious samples of Charlotte's finest Caterers and Bakers.

6. There is a huge Knot Wedding Giveaway including 9 different items for a piece of a wedding including- Venue, Flowers, DJ, Videographer, Photographer, Photo booth, Wedding Planner, Jeweler, and Party Rentals. (must register from 11am-1:30pm at the Knot Registration, winners will be picked at 4pm)

7. Free magazines from all of the top wedding publications- The Knot, Carolina Bride, Weddings Unveiled, Charlotte Weddings, The Perfect Wedding Guide and Premier Bride!

8. Register in the Belk Pavilion to win a $500 Gift Card to Belk and be a part of Charlotte's most elite bridal registry!!

9. Experience the fashion show at 4:30pm to see the newest trends in Bridal and Formal Wear from David's Bridal and Men's Wearhouse!

10. Have a chance to see your groom dance in the Grooms Dance Contest and maybe he could win you a honeymoon. (Your registration is your entry for the chance to
participate)

Make sure to check out our Website for more information at www.thebridalshowcasenc.com
**Purchase your tickets online until Wednesday at 5pm, after that you can purchase them at the door for $12. Pre-register before Saturday at 5pm to save time, otherwise you still can register at the show to be eligible for lots of prizes and contests!