PMA Shows hosts annual bridal event

PMA Shows organizes the event that features more than 50 vendors. Vendors range from cake makers, to photographers, to DJs, venues and event planners

The bridal show has been a staple at the Great Lakes Mall for more than a quarter century.

The annual event returned to the Mentor mall Feb. 1.

Its advantage is that it puts vendors of all types under one roof so that people “don’t have to go to 6 million different places,” PMA Shows owner Traci Sampson said.

PMA Shows organizes the event that features more than 50 vendors. Vendors range from cake makers, to photographers, to DJs, venues and event planners.

The event is free, which is especially beneficial when budgeting for a wedding said vendor Janel Mueller. This was her third year as a vendor at the show working direct sales. This year was her first as an independent stylist for Color Street Nail.

In addition to those planning for a wedding, the event is helpful to vendors who get exposure and the opportunity to talk face to face with potential customers.

Bock’s Floral Creations owner Marianna Bock has been a vendor at the show since 1999. She said the show has been beneficial to her business over the years.

“You get to show a little bit of everything you do to prospective brides,” Bock said.

Though it doesn’t get as much foot traffic as events like the bridal show at the

I-X Center in Cleveland, there are advantages to that too, said wedding photographer Todd Carlson of Todd H Carlson Weddings.

At smaller shows, there’s more of a chance to talk with prospective customers, Carlson said. As a smaller business, bigger shows can be more overwhelming and he doesn’t get the chance to talk with everyone.

The Mentor-based photographer said it’s good to actually have a conversation, where there’s some of an opportunity for personality to show through. Bock added that the bridal show can also be helpful for out-of-town brides who are having weddings in the area who can send local family and friends to scout-out what’s available.

She agrees with Carlson that’s it’s a good opportunity to see personality.

“You get to speak with the brides and see personality and show our willingness to work,” Bock said.

ANDREW CASS — THE NEWS-HERALD Bock’s Floral Creations owner Marianna Bock has been a vendor at the Great Lakes Mall bridal show for more than 20 years.