Special Event Network's Bridal Expo at the Clemens Center February 28, 2010
Star Gazette
Special Event Network would like to thank Jeff Murray of the Star Gazette for his article and photos of our eighth annual Bridal Expo at the Clemens Center, Elmira.
Brides hunt for best prices at expo 2010 | Written byJeff Murray Star Gazette jdmurray@gannett.com
Victoria Marsh, of Corning, isn't getting married for more than two years, but she's already shopping for her wedding.
Marsh and her fiance', Ian Tracy of Corning, were among hundreds of people who turned out Sunday for the seventh annual Bridal Expo at the Clemens Center in Elmira.
Even though their nuptials are scheduled for September 2012, now is a good time to get started with the planning, especially with today's economy, Marsh said.
"Mostly today we want to get an idea of flowers and venues. We don't have colors picket out yet," she said. "We wanted to see what vendors are out. We're just shopping around. We're starting early so we're not going to go drastically into debt."
On average, couples in the Elmira area can expect to spend between $19,000 and $32,000 on their weddings, according to the Wedding Report, a research firm that provides statistics and market research for the wedding industry.
Matrimony is big business even in a show economy, said Bridal Expo organizer Sonja Harvey of the Special Event Network.
People are still spending money on weddings, but they may be spending it more carefully, Harvey said.
"I think they are keying in on certain things they want," she said. "Photography may be the most important thing to one person, and the cake may be more important to others. They are still spending money but they are prioritizing."
Sunday's expo attracted 38 vendors who offered everything from wedding cakes to photography services.
Business is picking up some after a slow season last year, said Lisa Novitsky, owner of Grand Star Studios in Elmira.
"Weddings are one thing people don't want to skimp on, since it happens just once for most people," Novitsky said. "I've talked to a lot who are planning for next year already, so that's good."
Tanya DeWalt, of Mainesburg, isn't getting married until July 2011, but she's planning her wedding now so she can better contain costs.
"I love bridal shows. I'm pretty much looking for everything," DeWalt said. "It's very competitive. I'm here to browse to see who has the best stuff and the best prices. Weddings get expensive. I'm saving up."
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