Get some Bride Ideas at an exclusive wedding show

"More engagements happen between Thanksgiving and New Year's Eve than any other time of year," says University Village representative Sarah Kastandres, explaining the timing of this weekend's Bride Ideas show. The bridal extravaganza will take place Sunday, Jan. 27 in a lavishly decorated tent next to Pottery Barn Kids.

Bride Ideas is more than a typical wedding expo, at which dozens of photographers, florists and caterers all vie for the attention of shell-shocked brides. Instead, the show takes a more thoughtful approach by limiting the vendors to a select list of wedding service providers hand-picked by University Village staff and consultants for their high quality of service. (Well-regarded local businesses such as The Bridal Garden, I Do Bridal, Mike's Amazing Cakes and Real Card Company are some of the vendors scheduled to participate.)

In addition to the vendor tables where brides can have conversations with the providers, the event will feature an expert panel discussion (offered twice, at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.), which will be presented in a classroom setting. Participating panelists will include One Thousand Words Photography, Flora Nova, Hotel 1000 and representatives from University Village stores that specialize in wedding-related services. Each classroom session is followed by a fashion showcase of gowns and party dresses, plus intimate apparel from Zovo Lingerie.

The $25 ticket provides entry to the event, a mimosa, hors d'oeuvres and a gift bag filled with items from Bride Ideas vendors as well as University Village shops such as Papyrus, Mrs. Cook's and The Confectionery. A $40 VIP option offers limitless mimosas, a swankier gift bag and a reserved front-row seat at the fashion show.

Tickets may be reserved online at www.uvillage.com or by calling 206-523-0622.

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