EVANSVILLE — Loud music boomed as models donned in wedding gowns and tuxedos from David’s Bridal and Men’s Wearhouse walked down a runway in the middle of The Centre’s exhibit hall Sunday afternoon. The fashion show was the opening show of The Courier & Press Wedding & Prom Showcase.
Dozens of wedding and prom vendors showcased what they had to offer to attendees. Brides and their mothers, girls eager for prom and even a few fiancees and boyfriends were in attendance, gathering information for their special days.
David’s Bridal was one of the many vendors showcased on the main stage. Its fashion presentation featured a variety of dresses next to tuxedos from its partner, the Men’s Wearhouse.
“We really have everything from wedding gowns to miniature bride dresses to accessories and little gifts. We’re a one-stop wedding shop,” said Samantha Knight, an employee of David’s Bridal.
David’s Bridal and Men’s Wearhouse work together to ensure brides can coordinate outfits across their entire wedding party.
The vendors on hand Sunday offered everything needed for a wedding, from locations to catering to dresses. There were also things needed for preparation, such as a workout regimen.
Anytime Fitness of Evansville and Newburgh showcased their Bridal Bootcamp workouts on the main stage, as volunteers worked out next to Anytime trainers. David Kerr, the owner of the Evansville location, impressed the crowd by holding a “plank” for six minutes. The gym offered attendees a 40 percent discount on its bootcamp program.
“There are huge advantages to working out in a gym. The biggest thing is a gym gets you motivated. There aren’t distractions. And it can be fun; you can work out with your bridesmaids and have fun while you do it,” said Alicen Holden, marketing coordinator for the 24-hour, seven-day firm.
Anytime Fitness was also giving away a two-month VIP membership. The gym just opened its second location in the Evansville area, with one on High Pointe Drive in Newburgh and their newest location on Red Bank Road in Evansville.
“Our Evansville location just opened in September, so everything is really bright and new,” said Kerr.
After Anytime Fitness’s presentation, Shades of White Boutique showcased an array of prom dresses. Though many vendors were aimed at helping brides plan their weddings, there were many dress shops and floral shops there to help high school girls plan for prom.
Many of the catering companies in the hall offered delicious samples of their food, such as the Bauerhaus, which had a small buffet.
Many cake-decorating businesses, such as Piece of Cake and The Pacetre, also offered delectable samples, showing off their artistry on cupcakes.
There were also many salons in attendance to help women work out hair and makeup for their big day.
There was $7,000 in grand prizes awarded to attendees of the event, from sponsors that covered anything from fitness to food. Sponsors also gave out fun freebies, and attendees were able to pick up a free copy of Weddings Planner eWoman Magazine.