Bridal Show helps couples plan perfect wedding

By Sara E. Martin, Army Flier Staff WriterMay 2, 2014

Bridal Show helps couples plan perfect wedding
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FORT RUCKER, Ala. (May 2, 2014) -- Fort Rucker is home to many unique activities and events for its Families to enjoy, such as Girl's Night Out, Lake Fest and Thunder on Tholocco.

But officials are always looking to expand the possibilities of services Fort Rucker offers. The latest addition to spring up is the first-ever Fort Rucker Bridal Show scheduled for May 4 at The Landing's ballroom from 1-4:30 p.m.

"Everyone dreams of the perfect wedding, but planning one can be stressful. That's why I'm so excited about the Fort Rucker Bridal Show," said Janice Erdlitz, Directorate of Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation marketing director. "Whether you are engaged, planning on getting engaged or just wishful, the show is going to be amazing."

Tickets are $5 a person today and tomorrow, and $8 at the door. There will be prizes and giveaways, and samples of wedding cakes, adult beverages and catered cuisine.

Attendees will also have the chance to speak with wedding professionals and see the latest bridal fashion trends and floral designs, said James Weaver, Five Star Catering installation sales manager.

"The Landing decided to host the bridal show to gain more exposure for DFMWR facilities as possible wedding venues or for potential off-site catering opportunities," he said. "So many people do not know what we can offer them."

Five Star Catering offers a wide range of services for future brides, continued Weaver. It can almost be a one-stop shop.

"We can provide several different menu options from sit-down plated meals to buffet-style meals, rental space for wedding receptions and ceremonies, and other rental items such as linens, dance floor and centerpieces."

There will be a full display of a wedding ceremony and wedding reception to showcase The Landing's ability to host any size wedding. There will also be a fashion show from three different wedding shops, samples of food, and a chance to see what various services or products are offered by surrounding businesses in the Wiregrass area, he said.

"We hope this is a fun, informational day to help start the initial (wedding) planning or to give some new, fresh ideas to enhance (couples') special day," he said. "This show is an opportunity to see what services Fort Rucker has to offer, and is a chance for people to (speak) one-on-one with vendors to customize their perfect wedding day."

There will be more than 30 vendors at the event, all specializing in different wedding aspects, including: photography, disc jockey services, rental items, floral , venues, bridal boutiques, jewelry, hotels and lodging, catering services, bakeries, health and beauty, event coordination, and more.

Getting to speak with local wedding professionals and seeing what Five Star Catering and The Landing have to offer isn't the only reason why soon-to-be-brides and grooms should want to attend.

"We will be giving away a Sandals honeymoon package at (the show). This package allows the winning couple to customize their romantic getaway to create the ultimate honeymoon experience," said Weaver. "This will include a choice from all Sandals Resort locations with no blackout dates. The package is for room, amenities and excursions."

Those excursions include, but are not limited to, couples' massages, dinners on the beach, butler service and other upgrades.

Just because a wedding might not be in the future, officials encourage everyone to attend, even if it's just to fantasize.

"Even if you're not planning a wedding, it's still a fun event," said Erdlitz. "Is there really anything better than sampling wedding cake? But my favorite might be seeing all the wedding gowns during the fashion show. I plan on bringing a couple of my best friends and play bride-for-the-day."

And for those who are in the beginning stages of planning or those whose date is slowly approaching, the marketing director assures that the show will help with the stress of planning, and will offer inspiration as well as a wealth of information to couples.

"We have the top professionals in the business coming to the show," she said. "It would have been so helpful if I could have gone to a bridal show like this one with all the resources in one place. So take advantage!"

Related Links:

USAACE and Fort Rucker on Twitter

USAACE and Fort Rucker on Facebook

Fort Rucker, Ala.

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