I am trying to decide on a bridal show, and can't make up my mind which one to attend. I've heard of Wendy's before, and they say they had almost 1000 brides at the last show, which is great. But Bridalrama says that the wedding planner, who did their signups, says they had more brides than their competition (Wendy's). How do you guys pick which show to do? I've never done one and want the most for my money, since this is going to cost all my available cash.

Also...if you had to choose between using TheKnot.com or say GetMarried.com...which would you choose? The Knot is $120 per month last I heard, and get married is $125 per month but includes a magazine ad. Not sure how to decide....That's a lot of money for me right now since I don't have but 2 stinking orders booked for the rest of the year. But I need to get myself out there.

I was thinking of doing a sponsored Google ad....

Any advice appreciated. What with the money I invested in this website and logo, new checks, chef's coats, and whatall.....this is a lot of cash for me. Plus I need signs and brochures for the show. ACK!

I'm sorry with only 2 orders I would not do either. Don't panic. Do a gorilla marketing type program. Little cash - lots of exposure. Word of mouth is cheaper and goes farther than either.

The bridal shows are great. Either one will get you exposure but no guarantees. you will at least break even when done right. But there is lots of work to prepare. You will spend at least 3 times the cost of the booth in getting there. In other words. if the booth is $500. be prepared to spend for your display and materials another $1,500.

Same for the ads. regardless of cost they alone do not make the phone ring.

Put on your walking shoes. Make some cheap flyers and good business cards. Go to places like bridal shops, crafts stores that carry bridal items, etc. Talk to managers or owners to place your material in their stores. Ask if the cashiers can hand out a flyer to each customer. Team up with photographers, halls, churches etc.

With only 2 cakes you have a little extra time to work on this.

Good luck. Hope this helps