Yesterday, as a member of the Independent Wedding Association, I participated in the first ever Independent Wedding Fair, and it was a huge success! I met with some great couples, spoke on a panel about planning your wedding timeline, and networked with some of the other very talented vendors. All Independent Wedding Association vendors are locally-owned, hands-on businesses with a focus customer service, quality product, and value at their price point.
I’d like to give a shout-out to all the other vendors who participated this weekend. First, to the fabulous Becca Dilley who was the brains and inspiration behind the fair. Festivities Event Services decked out the Five Event Center with beautiful tableclothes, flowers, and candlelights. They really helped create a beautiful, luxurious atmosphere! Hailley from LeEvent Designs, a wedding planning service specializing in day-of coordination, was on hand to give planning advice.
In between the informative panels, the Urthema Quartet string musicians played beautiful music. They would be a wonderful addition to your ceremony or cocktail hour. Downstairs, Radio K had a booth at the fair and would be a modern, fun alternative to the traditional DJ.
Jessica’s Cakes brought some beautiful cakes for display and lots of yummy samples for tasting. The lovely ladies from Sweets Bakeshop brought their delicious corn cupcakes, orange cupcakes, brownies, and vanilla macaroons for tasting. They also had the most elegant cupcake display I’ve ever seen ~ and of course, I didn’t bring my camera! Finally, the Chowgirls Killer Catering had a beautiful spread of antipasta, cheeses, and a wonderful pea pesto pasta. I kept stopping by when I thought they weren’t looking.
Three florists brought a burst of spring with them. Just Bloomed, Distinctly Debbie, and Diana’s Floral Affairs showed what a range of options are available for weddings from traditional to ultra modern and chic.
Several other photographers participated as well! It was great to finally meet folks I know only online, including Katrina of Studio Laguna and Krista of Never Miss a Moment. Maribeth of Red Ribbon Studio, and brand new mom Jennie of Sewell Photography were there with some inspirational displays! I love talking shop with other photographers. The guys from The Traveling Photobooth also had their booth up and running. What a fun addition to any reception!
Two lovely invitation designers had their creations on hand – Paperista and Armato Design. I know when I redesign my branding I need to incorporate some letter press elements. I just adore the way it looks and feels.
JWP Jewelry Design showed off her beautiful and classic jewelry, perfect for a bride or as a gift for your girls (or mom!). I was seated next to the lovely Knit N Jules and folks couldn’t stop touching her soft and gorgeous wraps. She has some great dress options for flowergirls, too. The flower and bead necklaces by Jessica of Liebling Designs are beautiful and for sale on her Etsy site!
I am just kicking myself for not bringing my camera ~ I had so much to carry with my sample albums and large canvases that I left it at home. But there will be some photos on the Independent Wedding Fair site, so you’ll have to check those out.
As part of the fair, I offered a free engagement or “day-after” engagement session to all packages booked between now and March 1st. I’d like to extend that offer to all of my blog-readers, so just mention it when you set up your consultation!
Good luck with your campaign!
by Minneapolis Photographer Sarah McGee
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