Thinking about attending the San Diego Bridal Bazaar or any wedding expo soon?

It can be a game-changer  especially when you go with a plan. 

With hundreds of vendors, deals, and inspiration packed into one day, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or miss out on the real gems.

This guide walks you through exactly how to prepare, what to do while you’re there, and how to make sense of it all afterward so your time (and energy) is well spent.

1. Make a Game Plan

Before attending the event, take a moment to define your wedding planning priorities. What exact services are you looking to lock in? Are you just browsing for inspiration?

Write down the top 3–5 services you’re hoping to find or learn more about. This will help you stay focused when the room starts buzzing.

2. Create a “Wedding Email”

Set up a separate email address just for wedding planning (something like sarahandmike2025@…). 

Use it when signing up for vendor newsletters, giveaways, or brochures at the bazaar. This keeps everything organized, ensures you don’t miss out on important offers, and helps keep your personal inbox clutter-free.

3. Print a Few Contact Labels

If you plan to enter raffles or giveaways, bring pre-printed address labels with your name, email, wedding date, and venue (if booked). It saves time and helps you avoid writer’s cramp.

4. Pack Smart

Dress comfortably and wear shoes you can walk around in all day. Bring a tote bag (or a lightweight backpack) to carry brochures, cards, samples, and freebies.

 A notebook and pen are great for jotting down details, and a water bottle will help keep you hydrated throughout the day.

5. Make conversations

Don’t Just Browse while you are there , instead, make conversations, ask questions  

Approach booths with confidence. Vendors are used to all kinds of questions, so don’t hold back.

Ask about availability, pricing, packages, and what makes them different.

6. Focus on what you want 

It’s easy to get swept away by the prettiest booth or the flashiest display  but remember, the best vendors are the ones who align with your wedding goals. Look for professionals who listen, ask thoughtful questions, and feel like a natural fit personality-wise.

7. Take Notes While at it

Whether it’s on your phone or in a small notebook, jot down what stood out after talking to a vendor  especially if you liked them. Even just a quick “Loved their energy. Great video quality” can jog your memory later as to why you shoukd consider certain vendors

8. Sort Through Everything Within 48 Hours

The idea is to do it while you can still remember, Don’t wait too long  details fade quickly once the buzz of the event wears off.

Lay out the business cards, brochures, and freebies. Separate the ones that felt like a good fit from the rest. 

9. Follow Up With Your Shortlist

Send a short email or DM to the vendors you liked most. Mention something specific from your conversation to help them remember you. This step matters as it builds a relationship and helps them follow up with you even Even if you’re not ready to book yet.

Don’t forget to enjoy the process. Planning a wedding can be a lot, but events like the Bridal Bazaar remind you that you’re not alone. You’re surrounded by people who genuinely want to help you pull off something beautiful.

The DJMC team will be present at the bridal bazaar event and be more than happy to  connect with you make your wedding planning a lot easier by providing your essential service in one place

You can reach out to us here on more information on our booth 

We have helped dozens of couples simplify the planning process and bring their unique celebration to life all through one unified team. Let us help you do the same