Fashion event big draw at Asian Bridal Show
For South Asians, getting married is a big deal. And it is a bigger deal when the marriage takes place in the United States. For many, the concern might be retaining the traditional flavor as much as possible. Don't get it wrong, we are not talking just about food, but everything that goes into a wedding ? from cakes to clothes.
Things, however, aren't as tough as they used to be. Especially for brides looking to bedeck themselves in the most traditional and most gorgeous of bridal finery. Atlanta has become a center of sorts for bridal dresses in the Southeast. The metro area has seen sharp rise in establishments that deal with bridal clothes, wedding d�cor and entertainment.
Perhaps a clear indicator of this trend is the Asian Bridal Show that started three years ago. Held at the Atlanta Airport Marriott on Jan. 8, the show has proven to be "a learning process" for the organizers Balvinder Bhandari and Ragini Patel. "This was our most successful event, but we are still learning little things like how best to structure our registration and create a flow through the exhibit hall to benefit both our visitors and our vendors" said Bhandari. "Our goal is to promote local vendors because we have a wealth of knowledge, experience and creativity right here in Atlanta, and we truly accomplished that this year."
The Asian Bridal Show has been a kind of one-stop shop for those preparing for weddings. The event had vendors showcasing all the required ingredients of a wholesome shaadi, weddings cakes, dresses, DJ entertainment, makeup artists and wedding invitation designers. With the people and the displays, the show's ambience was festive. Some of the recent items available at this year's show were custom-designed invitation cards, gift packaging and select photographers displaying digital albums, some valued as high as $5,000. There were door prizes, in addition to the small gifts given by the vendors.
The highlight of the event was a fashion show hosted by Maya Creations. Thirty-two models displayed an array of colorful 2006 party and bridal dresses. Accompanying this visual display was the musical talent of the "wedding singer," Chastin Bhandari.
"We are grateful for the tremendous support provided each year by our sponsors Khabar Magazine, Barons Fine Jewelers and our host this year, Marriott Atlanta Airport," said Balvinder and Ragini.
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