First Bridal Expo answers couples' questions
Vendors offer items for perfect wedding day
Staff Photos by Benjamin Sharp

From cake bakers to photographers to dress makers, there was something for every bride at the first ever Wharton County Bridal Expo.

Held this past Sunday at the Wharton Civic Center, the event attracted over 65 vendors from Wharton and surrounding counties. Brides-tobe, moms - and a handful of visibly distressed prospective grooms - made the rounds, finalizing the myriad details needed for the perfect wedding day.

Presented by East Bernard-based Polak Petals and co-sponsored by the Wharton Chamber of Commerce, the event was a wonderful success, said organizer Brittany Polak.

"We had 500 people and 151 brides," she said.

That was more than expected. Organizers had prepared only 300 programs and 100 bridal bags.

"It was amazing," Polak said.

The highlight of the event was an extravagant fashion show, which had dozens of models parading around in the latest dresses and accessories from participating vendors. The show wasn't just for the women. Many brides were escorted across the stage by sharp-dressed guys in tuxedos.

One lucky girl, a door prize winner, received a full bridal "makeover" that included a make-up and hair session and the chance to wear a stunning wedding gown.

Polak said the response from both vendors and guests has been overwhelmingly positive. She said efforts have already begun on making next year's event bigger and better.

"People want to already put their applications in. They have seen what it can do for their business," she said.

Though some have encouraged Polak to relocate the show to a larger venue, she remains adamant about keeping it a local event.

"I want to keep it in Wharton," she said.