By Samantha Kraska
Leader Intern
Between flowers, limos and decorations, even the most prepared brides have trouble thinking of every last detail necessary for the big day.
But luckily, Oxford Community Television is there to bring everything brides need to one place and show it can all be found locally. OCTV will host a bridal expo on Saturday, April 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Monique Maksym, OCTV’s bridal expo coordinator, said the inspiration behind the event was to provide a small, done-right expo instead of the more expensive events held in places like Novi.
‘We didn’t want to charge the vendors or the brides,? Maksym said. ‘In this economy we don’t see people spending $25 just to walk through.?
In addition to walking through the expo for free, brides will also automatically be entered in a giveaway to win a wedding video worth $1,500.
Mark Young, owner of Mark A. Young Jewelers, is co-sponsoring the event and agrees the expo will highlight businesses some Oxford residents may not be aware of.
‘It seemed like a good fit because we’ve been in Oxford for over 10 years and some people still don’t know I’m here,? Young said. With all the local businesses showing the unique options they have to offer, Young said there will be ‘anything that would support a first class wedding.?
A & A Flowers will show fresh and rental arrangements to appeal to any budget range and because, as Maksym explained, more and more brides now choose other decorations to customize their flowers and centerpieces.
‘So many girls are adding lamps and vases,? she said. ‘You can really take it up a notch.?
The expo will even highlight opportunities for bachelor and bachelorette parties. Merge Art Studio will have information on their Painting Parties where groups can come for a relaxing night out together and bring home their own artwork, if that is more their style.
If any brides are still looking for their hair and makeup looks, Downtown Salon stylists will be doing consultations and styling on site.
Other vendors include Oakwood Wedding Chapel, who will have information about their venue as well as invitations, and Glorious Designs, who will have the latest in bridal and bridal party wear. Gen X Limo, local DJs and photo booth rentals will also be featured.
‘I don’t want to say it’s a gift back to the community,? Maksym said. ‘We just want to be the link to the community to show that brides can get everything they need right here.?
Oxford Community Televison’s bridal expo will be held in their station at 1775 N Lapeer Rd, Suite C. For more information, please contact OCTV at (248) 628-9658 or visit www.occtv.org.