Love is in the Air at Westfield's First Bridal Expo

Love was in the air Sunday afternoon in downtown Westfield, as brides-to-be flocked to the James Ward Mansion for the first "Westfield Affair" bridal expo.  

The participating vendors were all local businesses dedicated to proving that a newly engaged couple can plan their entire wedding within walking distance in downtown Westfield. Amy Mankin, of Mademoiselle on East Broad Street, organized the majority of the event by contacting the local vendors and setting up the advertising. Mankin  hopes that "this is one of many events. I am very happy with the turnout.  This expo is unique in that it is not at a convention center, our neighborhood offers vendors for brides and grooms within a three block radius". 

Mankin highlighted the contributions of the Ward brothers in putting the event together and providing a venue. She said without them it would not have come together.

Some of the highlights at the event included a bouquet toss with a free hairdo from the Guillotine Salon for whomever caught the bouquet and a dance demonstration from the Starry Night dance studio. Bath Junkie had customized samples and some fun giveaways for brides looking for unique favors. Ultimate Caterers (the preferred vendor for the James Ward Mansion) was offering samples of a chicken mushroom dish with couscous as well as some sweet treats.

Food options also included several desserts including root beer floats and mini milkshakes. The new trend in wedding foods includes more comfort foods and grab and go options for the dance floor, moving away from the traditional venetian tables of the past, according to local caterers.

Bovella's bakery had an actual wedding cake to taste, and Cool Vines was giving out wine samples that were very popular with the guests. There were also many generous giveaways that included a free honeymoon from Unique Cruise & Travel, a free bridesmaid dress from Mademoiselle, upgrades to a James Ward wedding package and many more. 

Ward, the expo was an affair to remember. Two prospective brides in attendance booked their weddings at his establishment. 

 "This was a great success," he said. "I would like to hold an event like this three times a year. Amy of Mademoiselle did an amazing job organizing this. We had to  cut down the number of guests on the event website because it was getting overbooked."