Fall Bridal Gala: September 2010

So most of you know that I am a wedding coordinator in my hometown. I started this business a few years ago in hopes that it would give me more flexibility to stay home with my boys, but still give me the freedom of having a life outside of the home as well. I am doing all of this so that when my boys go to school, I am not left careerless, and have a business that I can grow into my full time job.

So far so good. The business has really picked up this year. I am busier than ever, and loving every minute of it. You know when you are doing something you absolutely love and you just feel so empowered? Yes, that is a feeling I have after starting this business with nothing, but the knowledge I have gained in the past.

That is why I as so excited to finally be apart of a bridal show. I have been to a million. Always looking for inspiration, or just meeting other vendors. I wanted to pick every one's brain and see what all goes into having your business. And this year was my year. FINALLY, I can say that I am a true vendor now. I have a great business with an even better reputation from other vendors. I have put my heart and soul into this, and I am finally seeing the rewards.

Yesterday was the Fall Bridal Gala. It's not a huge show, but it is a show. There were about 35 vendors who attended, all anticipating the brides arrival. I can't even tell you how excited I was. Not only was I excited about seeing the brides, but I was stoked about my booth. Now, let me tell you a little about my booth ... I had NOTHING 2 weeks ago. Nada, zilch, zero! But I have been looking for booth inspiration for about a year now ... and yet, still nothing .... well, actually I did see things that I liked, just nothing in my price range. I even drove up to Saint Louis to find something and meet with a vendor there to "create" my look. Too expensive.... So, empty handed, I finally started sketching. Yeah, like Project Runway style. I knew what I wanted and some of the items needed, but as far as, "the look" I was lost. Did I mention I was on a budget??

Okay ... so here is what I came up with ...








So what do you all think? Here is the break down ...

Canopy: $69.00 on sale at Target (STEAL)
White Table: Repurposed from home
Flowers: $40.00 at a 50% discount from Hobby Lobby
Flower Petals: $40.00 from Just Fabulous Flowers
Cocktail Tables, Linens, Uplights: $0 from A1 Rental in Columbia (THANK YOU!)
TV: Home
Decor:Home

So there you go ... my "look for less." I am SO pleased with how it turned out. It was a vision in my head that I had NO idea what it was going to look like all together, and it really did look professional.

So now you all know what I have been up to these past couple of weeks since I haven't been blogging. I'll share more this week on how I repurposed my white table and how to create custom water bottles.

Hope everyone has a great Monday!