Attended: Promises and Pearls - Vendor Recap

Hands down our (ok my) favorite vendor was Raffine Chocolates out of San Ramon. I love chocolate and OMG Raffine's sweet treats did not disappoint. For just over $2.50 each, we could treat each guest to a bite of heaven wrapped up in a box that matches our wedding colors.

At times it seemed as if Mooflyfoof and I were the only two brides getting married this year or in under six months. Because neither of us were engaged last year for the Third Annual Promises and Pearls we weren't really able to take advantage of vendor specials or planning tips. Most vendors for our respective weddings and receptions have already been chosen and are already booked.

Throughout the space, there were vendors offering furniture rentals, specialized table linens, chair covers and sashes - as well as the elusive Ghost Chairs.

I'm glad we didn't start our foray into the wide world of wedding planning at this event. The theme was decadence and neither of us embrace that in our every day lives. I kept thinking "Wouldn't it be great if there was a Maker's Wedding Salon or Etsy DIY Wedding Fair?" As both Make and Etsy options flow from authenticity, such a fair is probably unrealistic - each bride and groom have a different story to tell.

Formalwear as well as dress salons were in attendance. The trend appeared to be lots of bling - for bridesmaids as well as for the bride. I flipped through a bunch of catalogs scanning for potential Mother of the Bride outfits. I quickly realized that most MOB outfits are targeted for women in their late 40s or mid 50s. Or potentially women who have had some reconstruction work done that they want to show off.

The cupcake trend - reported by NY Times - to be dead, appeared to be still be in vogue. Although the cookie bar - no vegan options unfortunately - was more tempting to me.

Did you attend any Bridal Shows when you were engaged? What was your experience like?

Be sure to visit the blog tomorrow for the last Promises and Pearls recap featuring tablescapes.