Louisville Wedding Professionals Association

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Brides Ask Questions...Vendors Have Answers

Bridal Gowns	What are brides looking for in today's market when they begin shopping for their wedding dresses, bridesmaids dresses, tuxes, etc.? What is more important to them; service, price, selection, etc.?
Answer from Bobby Eldridge of Prestigious Affairs, Bride Unique & Prominent Fit Tux Our clients look for Value, Stylish Designs and Colors and Selection. Most of our clients know what they want or have seen it via online catologues. Service is usually secondary because it can mean extra, hidden expenses. At our shop, we offer complimentary hem, steam and press with all gown or bridesmaid purchases. We also offer alteration and other services at a minimal fee. Service is also important when it comes to our line of Tuxedos but many of our brides look for value ("How can I get the grooms tux for free?") and color coordination with the bridesmaids dresses. We can help in all of these areas. Most of all, our clients are looking for honesty when helping them make fabric choices, pick colors, find flattering styles or body shapes, designer styles, etc. We take the time to be helpful and make our client comfortable about the decisions they are making.
Catering	What are the most popular foods for a brides reception?
Answer from Denise Jerome of The Catering Company The menu is as diverse as the couples themselves. Some couples prefer heavy appetizers and some prefer a two entree meal. Of course a mix for the two is always an option. Brides and grooms are getting more creative and original, deviating from the traditional norm. We have catered vegetarian weddings, themed weddings, picnic weddings, and brunch weddings. It is totally structured towards what the couple envisions their ultimate day to be like.
Catering	Is the trend to go elegant or casual?
Answer from Denise Jerome of The Catering Company Again, the trend is to be non-traditional. Imagination is a key and everyone wants to be the "first" to have something new. I do see heavy appetizer receptions as an upcoming trend though.
Catering	When would you want a sit-down dinner versus a buffet?
Answer from Denise Jerome of The Catering Company Sit-dow dinners always strike me as the more "elegant" affair. Not that buffets are not elegant, but they are not as "pampered to" events. One of the most important things to consider with "sit-down" dinners vs. buffet is location. Does the facility have enough prep area to stage the food and keep it warm? Is it condusive for the caterer to get in and out easily? Is the reception room set tightly with tables or are they spread out enough for servers to go between? Does the budget allow for addtional servers? There is much more work involved for the caterer with regard to prep time, heating and cooling difficulties, when a "sit-down" dinner is offered. However, the elegance of the event is elevated to a higher level with this type of dinner option.
Catering	How does the menu differ for a sit-down dinner versus the buffet?
Answer from Denise Jerome of The Catering Company Generally the menu stays the same. The order in which the meal is served is different. The timeframe is generally longer and spread out depending on the menu.
Flowers	Flowers have been used for decorating weddings for a long time. Are their trends in flowers? If so, what are the current trends or what are today's brides looking for in regards to today's weddings?
Answer from Mike Gaddie of Lloyd's Florist There are many trends in flowers and decorations for weddings these days and they change all the time. For one thing, the hand-tied bouquet is very popular right now but slowly the cascade bouquet is coming back in style. Color is also a big factor when planning your bouquet. Right now, anything brown is in. Brown and pink, brown and blue, brown and champaigne, etc. In 2006 the colors were black and red.
Photography	What is the latest trend in photography, meaning, what styles do brides seem to be looking for and what types of photo albums are selling in today's market?
Answer from Bud Smith of Bud Smith Photography Actually the Brides we meet and talk with are seeking a style of photography that shows them having fun. This involves getting to know them and building a relationship with them, letting them know that we care about them as a unique couple. The Coffee table books are by far the choice that 99% of our couples choose. These books are a great way to tell their wedding story.