Take hundreds of brides, with their mothers or bridesmaid in tow... add in dozens of vendors, anxious to get the bride's attention (read: money)... oh, and don't forget about the free samples of wedding cake, with the accompanying sugar buzz... and you have a day at a wedding expo.

My sister, the bride, invited me to tag along with her to "The Bridal Showcase" at our city's convention center (find an event in your area). I insisted, so she let me pay the admission costs for both of us ($10 each x 2 = $20) and bought bottled water there because you get parched after walking around checking out all the booths. TIP: carry a little extra money with you to wedding-related outings and, when possible and reasonable, pick up the cost for the both of you. This is a thoughtful gesture to the bride, who's no doubt already had her share of wedding sticker shock.

The bridal event was actually quite interesting. Despite the fact that I've been a bridesmaid five times and planned my own wedding, I've never been to one of these showcases. It was very helpful to meet, face-to-face, with the vendors my sister had researched on the internet or seen advertised in bridal magazines. She had the chance to talk with these prospective providers without making an appointment and driving all over town to their offices. She could quickly determine whether she "connected" with the vendors and wanted to find out more.

As for the bridesmaid -- me -- there's not much there aimed at you (except the cake samples, hello!). You're there to give your opinion, when asked, about various providers so be supportive but honest. You're also there to schlep the shopping tote that quickly fills up with vendors' fliers and brochures... nice workout!