CLASSIC STYLES: Allure Florist and Bridal owner Melliah Tooth with two of the most popular gowns chosen by brides in 2012. Photo: JUDE KEOGH 0812bridal
UP STYLE: Maria Byers styles Caitlin Symons’hair, assisted by Troy Sargent. The Central Western Daily’s Ella Bowman helped coordinate the Central West Bridal Expo with fellow sponsors Orange Ex-Services Club. Photo: JUDE KEOGH 0812bridal
FOR brides on a shoestring budget or those planning an extravaganza, there was something for every bride at yesterday’s Central West Bridal Expo.
Maintaining a trend, glamorous centrepieces were on show, along with a variety of gowns.
However, something new this year was a pole dancing display, perhaps to tempt the bride to give it a go, or for guests to try their hand.
Hairstylists, photographers, caterers, wedding travel specialist and function centres were among the 38 exhibitors in the Coral Sea Room at the Orange Ex-Services Club.
Allure Florist and Bridal owner Melliah Tooth says brides in regional areas were a little more conservative than their city counterparts.
“Our gowns range from $500 to around $2500, which is the popular price range, but there are many brides out there who don’t want to spend more than $1000,” she said.
Ms Tooth said vintage lace teamed with moonstones was a popular look, with strapless designs remaining popular.
Most of her gowns sold in sizes 14 or 16.
“But we do sell from a size eight to 36,” she said.
Hairdresser Maria Byers says many brides these days go without a veil.
“They are looking for a classy and elegant, almost Hollywood, style and often they don’t want to cover it up,”she said.
“They accessorise with pretty clips or small fascinators and it’s a gorgeous look.”
The $5 entry fee to yesterday’s expo will be donated to Can Assist, which provides financial assistance for people in the central west living with cancer.
