Why You Shouldn't Miss the Columbus Bride Show

Brides-to-be: You're in for a real treat at this year's Columbus Bride Show presented by Meyers Jewelers. No, I'm not talking about cake (or dresses or bling or flowers, for that matter), though you'll find that, too. This year's highlight is our special guests-Giuliana and Bill Rancic presented by Ashley Furniture HomeStorewill take the stage at the Greater Columbus Convention Center Jan. 4 to share relationship advice, showbiz stories and fashion tips.

Held Jan. 3 to 4 in halls E and F of the convention center, this year's show promises to be one of our best yet. Brides-along with friends, family and grooms-will have the opportunity to meet with more than 100 Ohio wedding vendors, from florists and reception venues to photo-booth companies and videographers.

A Catered Event, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Active Travel, Bosc & Brie, Capital City Cakes, COSI, Irongate Equestrian Center, Hilton Columbus Polaris, Diamond Cellar, Men's Wearhouse, David's Bridal, The Athletic Club of Columbus, La Jeune Mariee, Pinnacle Golf Club, Worthington Jewelers and Charles Penzone are just some of the exhibitors on hand to help plan your day.

Brides in attendance will also have the opportunity to win bridal registration prizes-more than $20,000 in prizes will be given away throughout the weekend-as well as special giveaways from participating vendors.

A bridal runway like Columbus has never seen before: check. The Charles Penzone Fashion Show-Saturday at noon and 3:30 p.m., Sunday at 1 and 3:30 p.m.-is a totally revamped experience, promises Elizabeth Bean Smith of Wardrobe Therapy, who's styling the show.

"What we really charged forward with was this idea that the show was too large but also not fabulous enough," she says. "It was more a sea of white dresses, and it can be so much more."

Working with show coordinator Adrianne Ramstack of Adrianne Elizabeth Events, Bean Smith determined what the show needed was the "creme of the creme"-the best dresses from both national gown shops and local boutiques. She says the show will be quick-moving with about 70 high-fashion looks, and the runway will be segmented into four price-point categories.

"We're trying to make it easier for the brides to navigate and really respond to the pieces coming down the runway," she says. "We'll have 10 looks for each price point. We want the brides to feel like they can get a fabulous look for any price."

A processional of bride, groom, mother of the bride, three bridesmaids and a flower girl will follow at the end of each of the four segments, providing cohesive style inspiration for your big day, whether you're going for laid-back or all-out glamour.