Bridal Showcase Offers One-Stop Wedding Planning

All of the newly engaged couples that decided over the holidays that they are ready to take the big leap have an event where they can do some one-stop shopping for just about everything wedding related.

The will host its annual Bridal Showcase this weekend. The free event makes preparing for the nuptials less stressful since those who attend literally could choose the minister, pick the cake, find the florist, meet a photographer and even talk with a beautician about wedding day hair. Just about every aspect, other than the dress, is covered with the event’s vendors. 

The Bridal Showcase at the Naper Settlement is not an overwhelming experience for couples, since it is on the smaller side it is easier to navigate, said Donna DeFalco, the Naper Settlement’s marketing and sales representative. For its size, it still offers a variety of vendors for couples to choose from and will have 40 on site this year.

“We do it in January because of all the holiday engagements that happen from Thanksgiving through the New Year,” DeFalco said. “It is also a down time for our vendors and a way for them to exhibit on the weekend. It’s a great opportunity.” 

The event is one of DeFalco’s favorites, she said, adding that many of the vendors have participated in the event year after year. She said it is fun to see the brides come with their families excited about the upcoming nuptials. 

Couples have the opportunity to taste cakes, sip coffee and begin the planning, she said. This year new Naperville sweets caterer Lillycakes & Desserts will be in attendance. Along with Lillycakes will be Luscious Layers Bakery and Hellooo Cupcakes among the many vendors. 

Those who are hoping to be married at the Naper Settlement’s Chapel also have the opportunity to view the chapel, DeFalco said. Couples are able to bring in their own celebrant for the service and decorate the chapel, as they would like, so it allows them to get ideas for the space.

The grounds at the Naper Settlement are now free of construction, which was completed last year, and with the installation of new pavers on paths throughout the area will make a great location for photos, she said.

“Our busy times [for weddings] are throughout the summer and throughout the fall,” she said, adding, “fall has proven to be a pretty popular time to get married.”

For more information about the Bridal Showcase, call 630-420-6010 or visit www.napersettlement.museum. The event will be held from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Friday and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at the Naper Settlement.