Along with visiting with vendors, and attending fashion shows, brides at the Dallas Bridal Show were able to hear three celebrity guest speakers: W. Donnie Brown, celebrity wedding planner from Style Network's "Who's Wedding is It Anyway?", Suzanne Kresse, "The Wedding Lady," and Peter Merry, author of "The Best Wedding Reception, Ever!"

As always, exhibitors at the Dallas Bridal Show had the opportunity to participate in a coupon contest to see which company could bring in the most brides and win discounts on future booth prices. Congratulations to the following winners! (Prizes will be attributed to the July 2009 Dallas Bridal Show)

Congratulations to the following coupon winners that will receive discounts on the 2009 July Fort Worth Bridal Show.

Over 40% of the Fort Worth Bridal Show on July 25-26 is already booked, but there is still space available if you have not reserved your booth. Don't delay, categories close out quickly!

If you are waiting for potential business to come through the door without working your leads properly, you are going to be very disappointed. When we hear someone say their marketing didn't work, it is usually because they failed to thoroughly work their leads. When we check a little further, we find that leads were contacted less than 10 times--usually just 2 or 3 contacts were made.

Please read the article in our October 2008 newsletter, with the information about working your leads 27 times, which really means only 9 times. When you work your leads effectively, you will see results. Continue obtaining and working new leads on a consistent basis without giving up, unless they request for you to quit contacting them. Find ways to stay in contact with all of your leads on a regular basis. There is so much other potential business that so many companies have other than weddings.

In this day and time, it is now more important than ever before to get face-to-face leads. With the age of emails, texting, and all non face-to-face social networking, the customer wants to know who they are doing business with, to know if they feel good about doing business with them, to know if they can trust that company.

Be creative to add value to what your business provides so the customer will want to do business with you. Be a leader and expert in your field-- Read and learn as much as you can about marketing. Be prepared to handle and adapt to changes constantly. Change is going to happen whether we like it or not. When we are doing the right things in the right way, we are prepared for those changes ahead of time.

Gina had the opportunity to attend the January Dallas Bridal Show and worked her first bridal show last weekend in Fort Worth. She is excited about helping business owners achieve success by introducing them to brides face-to-face. Please help us welcome Gina to the Bridal Shows, Inc. family.

New Contact Information:
Gina Anderson
972-713-9920 ext. 207
gina@bridalshowsinc.com

Steve has cemented his place as America's favorite wedding planner by starring on WE tv's "Wedding Central," "Bling on the Bride," "Married by the In-Laws" and "Platinum Weddings." Additionally, Steve has showcased his event planning expertise by leading the "I Do Crew" in ABC's "Extreme Makeover: Wedding Edition" where a remarkable couple was granted a wedding of their dreams, as well as helping couples make their weddings a reality on the Style Network's "Whose Wedding Is It Anyway" and "Married Away." Steve has planned incredible weddings in locations across the globe including Montreal and Ireland. One of his most awe-inspiring wedding celebrations includes the 7/7/07 wedding of Amanda Dermid and former NFL football player Jimmy Ray Robinson, Jr. They were married on the stage of Nashville's Ryman Auditorium with a 46 person gospel choir.

Kemble discovered his passion for special events when he organized his high school senior prom, and he continued to work on events throughout college at Texas State University. After completing school, Kemble turned his creativity from designing prom invitations and organizing college events to working on the event staff for Congressman Jim Collins. He continued working on events within the political arena as he joined the event departments for both the Dallas Chamber of Commerce and the historic restoration campaign of the Statue of Liberty. All of this experience led to the founding of Dallas-based Steve Kemble Event Design, where he has creatively designed, produced and planned events with his own label and unique touches for more than 20 years.

Upon launching a successful business in Dallas, Kemble expanded his efforts to produce and become an expert on designing international events. He currently spends 70 percent of his time producing events outside the Dallas market, which has enabled him to build and form powerful event partnerships with a variety of people and companies throughout the world.

Kemble's involvement with meetings and events industry exceeds far beyond the realm of his company, making him an expert in the international events market. He founded the Dallas chapter of the International Special Events Society (ISES) and served as its first president. He was recently the International President of the ISES.

The broad exposure my business received is valuable in itself. I am located in Keller and would not have met that many attendees in 2 days ANY other way. They now know who and where to find Kathy's Floral and Event Design.

Lastly, I was able to network and begin building new business relationships with fellow vendors which benefit all involved. Thank you Dallas Bridal Show.

When you finish reading your group of books, you can bring them back and exchange them for other books. If everyone does this it will create a lot of reading, learning, and fun!

It is not too early to reserve your place at the Conference! Early Bird prices currently available.

Stay tuned to our website for more details about the Conference or call us with any questions!!

972-723-9920

We all need to work on inspiring ourselves to be the best we can be-to bring out the best in ourselves. None of us are perfect. We are going to make mistakes, but we need to learn from them and not dwell on them.

Communication is the key in any relationship, even with ourselves. Tell yourself what you are good at, what your strengths are, what you like about yourself. Then, tell yourself what you want to be better at and work on that area. Take one area at a time. Have realistic expectations of yourself. Appreciate and rejoice in even the smallest accomplishments.

Bad habits can be changed over time. Practice talking in a positive way about yourself to others and to you. This helps improve every area of your life and those around you. This starts in your mind.

David J. Lieberman, Ph.D., in his book Don't Spend Years on the Couch! Instant Analysis. How You Can Understand and Change-The 100 Most Common, Puzzling, Annoying, Self-Defeating Behaviors & Habits, states "Every significant battle is first waged within your heart and in your mind. It's there where you win or lose. How your reality unfolds is only an expression of an outcome already decided by you. You need to be on your own side. Life is hard enough without the enemy having outposts in your head."

The great inspirational author Norman Vincent Peale wrote "Whenever a negative thought concerning your personal powers comes to mind, deliberately voice a positive thought to cancel it out," from his well- known book The Power of Positive Thinking.

Attitude is everything! It not only helps us but is also a major factor in our relationships with others. A short excerpt taken from the book How to Win 7 Out of 8 Days a Week by Landon Saunders is "The better you like yourself, the more people are going to enjoy being with you.

According to Marian Thomas, in A New Attitude, she gives us the following words: "How do you get your attitude working for you rather than against you? Start by believing in yourself-by using positive self-talk and visualizing positive things happening to you. Learn to attack your problems head-on and continually look for the bright side in any situation. Rely on your sense of humor when the going gets tough and try to make any task fun. Finally, don't forget to reward yourself for a job well done."

Remember that God made us all unique and special. Other statements by Landon Saunders in his book mentioned above are: "Being unique means you are irreplaceable and responsible. No one can ever take your place, and you have a work to do no one else can ever do. . . . Be the best possible you-at work, at home, wherever you area. And then lie down at night . . . and see how much more interesting the day has been than when you were living just like everyone else."

One of life's great thoughts by Dore Schary shown in the book Life is Tremendous by Charlie "Tremendous" Jones is "If you have a weakness, make it work for you as a strength-and if you have a strength, don't abuse it into a weakness."

When we talk and act in a positive way, it lifts ourselves and others up and creates great energy for all. Now, go think and talk positively, and you will be happier for it. Life will have a new meaning.

Before each show we outline a detailed marketing campaign to inform our exhibitors on how we get the news out. Below is the current listing of advertising mediums being used to promote the July 11-12, 2009, Dallas Bridal Show.

TV: Fox 4, WFAA 8, The 33, KTXA 21, AMGTV Digital 31.4

Radio: KISS FM, KVIL, The Wolf

Newspaper: Dallas Morning News, Quick

Billboards:
Clear Channel Outdoor
(Start date around May 18-all up for 8 weeks)

Internet: bridalshowsinc.com, theknot.com, myspace.com/dallasbridalshow, the33tv.com, 995thewolf.com, 1037litefm.com, dallasnews.com, pmb.com, scntx.com, craigslist.com, and many others

Wedding Publications: Bride & Groom Magazine, Dallas Brides (Modern Luxury), DWeddings, Elite Bride Magazine, For the Bride (National Magazine), Metro Woman Directory, Perfect Wedding Guide, Premier Bride

Other: News Flash-through The Knot, Multiple press releases, various local calendar listings, posters located at exhibitors' locations throughout the Metroplex, many email blasts through our website and to previously registered brides. Other marketing sources are always in the works.

Thinking of changing your career or supplementing your current one? Have you always wanted to become a wedding consultant or Church/Facility Coordinator, but never knew how or where to start?

The Association of Certified Professional Wedding Consultants (ACPWC) is a national organization celebrating eighteen years of industry excellence. ACPWC offers a comprehensive training and certification program for Wedding Consultants. ACPWC offers personalized training courses and classes for people who would like to become Wedding Consultants or Church/Facility Coordinators. We also offer a Home Study program for those with challenging schedules or those who want to learn at their own pace. Graduate members of the Association of Certified Professional Wedding Consultants have the opportunity to achieve Professional status and Certification. Members not only receive valuable information, but also benefit from the continuing education support system offered by the Association. Our motto is "Members helping members to succeed."

Register now for any of the upcoming training courses!

Kemble ( www.stevekemble.com) will present Hot Wedding Trends at 12:40 pm each day at the event. He will follow his presentation both days as host of the Sassiest Fashion Show at 1:00pm. In addition, Kemble will be appearing at three booths during the Dallas Bridal Show: lite 103.7 (where Kemble is known as the voice of the "What's Hot" segment on the Gene & Julie Morning Show); Delicious Cakes; and LiveWire Special Events.

About Steve Kemble, America's Sassiest Lifestyle Guru:

Steve Kemble, America's Sassiest Lifestyle Guru, has been the magic behind countless international events for more than 20 years. From celebrating the accomplishments of NFL players to organizing parties for two Presidents, he has orchestrated a wide array of high profile events to create an unforgettable affair each time he is called upon. Steve has cemented his place as America's favorite wedding planner by starring on WE tv's "Wedding Central," "Bling on the Bride," "Married by the In-Laws" and "Platinum Weddings." Additionally, Steve has showcased his event planning expertise by leading the "I Do Crew" in ABC's "Extreme Makeover: Wedding Edition" where a remarkable couple was granted a wedding of their dreams, as well as helping couples make their weddings a reality on the Style Network's "Whose Wedding Is It Anyway" and "Married Away." Steve has planned incredible weddings in locations across the globe including Montreal and Ireland. One of his most awe-inspiring wedding celebrations includes the 7/7/07 wedding of Amanda Dermid and former NFL football player Jimmy Ray Robinson, Jr. They were married on the stage of Nashville's Ryman Auditorium with a 46 person gospel choir. His most recent high- profile wedding was held in December 2008 for MLB relief pitcher Kyle Farnsworth and his wife Shayla at the Mansion on Forsyth Park in Savannah, Georgia.

Sometimes we can get comfortable doing the same thing over and over or we can get tired over time if our passion is no longer there.

If you really enjoy what you do, everyone will see it and feel it and know it. This applies so much more when you are exhibiting in a trade show. If you are not really passionate about what you are promoting, don't expect anyone to do business with you.

Give it all you've got if you really want to continue doing what you're doing. It may be best to renew your passion each day to bring the passion back. Have fun with what you do-it is essential. According to a quote by Theresa Helburn, shown in the book "Life Is Tremendous" by Charlie "Tremendous" Jones, "One's life work, I have learned, grows with the working and living. Do it as if your life depended on it, and first thing you know you'll have made a life out of it. A good life, too."

In the book "Keeping Your Head Up When Your Job's Got You Down," by Doug Sherman, he states, "To enjoy your work, you must have a compelling vision of what you do and why you do it." So many companies bring a lot of value to thousands of people. Think about the "why" in what you do.

David Niven, PhD., has a quote in his book, "The 100 Simple Secrets of Successful People," that reads: "Co-workers and customers asked to rate the job satisfaction of retail store employees were three times as accurate as random chance. Customers were 70 percent more likely to continue to do business in the store if they found the employees satisfied with their jobs. (Hagan 1999)"

Some people think they are going to retire someday. I am one of those who hope to be working until I can't anymore, because I love everything that I do. So many people that I have talked to that have retired were not as satisfied as they were working and are back out there. If you are in this dilemma, read the book "Don't Retire, Rewire! 5 Steps to Fulfilling Work that Fuels Your Passion, Suits Your Personality, or Fills Your Pocket."

Many years ago, I heard Zig Ziglar say that he was not retired, he was refired. He meant that he was fired up again. Maybe we all need to fire ourselves up every once in a while.

It is a true joy and a secure feeling when you really enjoy what you do. Everyone else will know it, also.

TV: Fox 4, WFAA 8, AMGTV Digital 31.4

Radio: KISS FM, KVIL, The Wolf

Billboards:
Clear Channel Outdoor
(Start date around June 29---up for 4 weeks)

Internet: bridalshowsinc.com, theknot.com, myspace.com/fortworthbridalshow, the33tv.com, 995thewolf.com, 1037litefm.com, pmb.com, scntx.com, craigslist.com, and many others

Publications: Bride & Groom Magazine, Dallas Brides (Modern Luxury), DWeddings, Elite Bride Magazine, Metro Woman Directory, Perfect Wedding Guide, Premier Bride

Other: Multiple press releases, various local calendar listings, posters located at exhibitors' locations throughout the Metroplex, many email blasts through our website and to previously registered brides. Other marketing sources are always in the works.

First Place: Premier Bride Magazine (FREE 10 x 10 booth)
Second Place: Perfect Wedding Guide ($300 off booth price)
Third Place: Lulu's Bridal($150 off booth price)

Congratulations to the Coupon Contest winners from the Fort Worth Bridal Show! (Prizes will be attributed to the February 2010 Fort Worth Bridal Show)

First Place: Bliss Bridal Salon (FREE 10 x 10 booth)
Second Place: Perfect Wedding Guide ($300 off booth price)
Third Place: Wildwood Inn ($150 off booth price)

972-713-9920

When & Where is it?
Wednesday, November 19, 2009
9:00am-5:00pm
Plano Centre, Plano, TX

Register today to save $$$$

All of us would like to take our PR game to the next level. And who better to help us do that than a media insider? Emmy Award winning TV reporter Jeff Crilley will share the secrets to getting good news stories that even many seasoned PR pros don't know.Jeff believes in combining learning with laughter. His charismatic speaking style lends itself perfectly to this fun, interactive, information-packed talk. Takeaways include: How to come up with stories the media will love; The best and worst times for news coverage; How to keep your press releases from getting thrown away; How to become the "expert" in your field the media will call for a quote; How to keep reporters coming back for more. You won't want to miss this talk. Jeff has a popular demonstration to illustrate one of his points that will have everyone blowing bubbles. No kidding! This is not a lecture, folks. It's the event everyone will be bubbling about. Jeff Crilley retired from TV news after 25 years in the business. During his career he made hundreds of national news appearances including CNN, CNN Headline News, FOX News, The Discovery Channel, Good Morning America and The CBS Early Show. He has been recognized by his peers with dozens of national and regional awards including the Emmy, the National Headliners Award, the Edward R. Murrow Award, the Thurgood Marshall Award and in 2004 was named by the Texas Associated Press, "The Best TV Reporter in the state."

Shama Hyder
Social Media Secrets to Growing Your Brand and Business

Facebook is closing in at 300 million users. Twitter is the fastest growing social site with 55 million. And LinkedIn is already the favorite child of over 65 million professional business users. It has never been as easy, as efficient, or as quick to reach people and get known as it is now. Shama Hyder, dubbed an "online marketing shaman and a master millennial of the universe" by Fast Company Magazine shows you how. Her passionate approach and expertise with the world of new media marketing is truly mind blowing. Shama speaks across the country to a wide variety of audiences - all hungry to learn more about the new web! People are already talking about you, your products, your industry- and your company. There has never been a better time than now to get involved and leverage the tools at your disposal to grow your brand and business. You can let this opportunity pass you by - or come learn the new rules of marketing online.

Barb Craft
Speaking Naturally

Do you want to become a better communicator? This seminar is packed with several tips on the art of unique and balanced communication. You can put these tips to use right away - and you will speak with more poise and confidence - while you are working, eating dinner, or just having fun with your friends! Barb Craft is owner and CEO of Craft Training Center (CTC), a communication skills training company. CTC offers Certified Presentation Skills training workshops and private coaching. CTC holds the exclusive position of being the only resource in North Texas that offers the proven SpeakersTrainingCampsŽ. Barb is a member of the National Speakers Association and the American Society of Training & Development. Whether you are a customer service employee, a wedding industry professional, an executive manager, or even in between life's transitional phases; when you incorporate these speaking tips . . . you will be able to communicate better ~ naturally! "Craft Your Communication & You Craft Your Success!"

Dean Lindsay
The Progress Challenge

The Progress Challenge is just that, a challenge - a challenge to progress, a challenge to work and win in this complicated, stress-encouraging, wonderful world of continual, radical change. Meeting The Progress Challenge: Establishes and Cements Customer Loyalty; Attracts New Business and Generates Quality Referrals; Leads to Career Development and Life Balance; Creates Better leaders, Better Team Members, Better Human Beings. There is a powerful and important connection between solid leadership, sales success, personal motivation, and customer loyalty. All are achieved by effectively positioning ideas, recommendations, solutions, products, services - even ourselves - as progress in the minds of those we wish to inspire to action.

Kathy Garland
Fearless Focus! Creating Your own brand of leadership

Create a magnificent future by focusing on who you really are, what brings you joy, and what you do best Reconnect with who you are and the leader you want to be. Discover the freedom of knowing how to focus on your strengths and the value of your contributions by understanding the power of your personal brand. Discover the joy of connecting with your clients and target audience effortlessly. Put the power of your personal brand to work for you.

Alan Berg
10 Ways Your Website is Killing Your Business

With more than 25 years experience in sales and marketing, over 18 in wedding related advertising, Alan Berg is uniquely qualified to help local wedding professionals achieve their goals. He is Vice President of Local Strategic Solutions and Director of The Knot Market Intelligence, the company's Resource for Education, Information and Market Research. Alan is a professional speaker and a member of the National Speakers Association, the leading organization for professional speakers. He speaks to thousands of local business professionals every year through monthly webinars and live presentations.

Naomi Hulme
Exhibiting 101

Naomi Hulme, President and CEO of Bridal Shows, Inc., has been producing successful consumer trade shows and some industry trade shows since 1988. Throughout the years she has offered advice to numerous companies about how to get the most out of exhibiting in a consumer show. She offers her services to help you turn bridal shows into your best marketing tool! The seminar includes exhibiting tips and valuable information to help you build your business. Whether you are an experienced exhibitor or completely new to bridal show marketing, Exhibiting 101 has been designed to help everyone achieve better results from exhibiting in consumer trade shows!

Jean Hammer
Jump Start Your Day Before Your First Cup of Coffee!!

Ever feel you're dragging out of bed in the morning? This fun and interactive seminar will facilitate mental clarity and increase your metabolism from the moment your feet hit the floor! Keep that energy level going throughout the day and learn exercises that will help relieve trouble spots experienced during events.

Sarah Zink
Leadership and Time Management

Jeff Klein
Networking Your Way to Success

Networking is the most basic, cost-effective form of advertising. Accomplished business networkers don't have to make cold calls to make sales. They draw upon their network of business partners and reach out to the circle of influence of everyone they network with on a regular basis. Jeff Klein teaches practical tools for effective, impactful networking that works. Start a Conversation, Don't Kill It - You'll learn how to say what you do in a way that will prompt people to want to know more; Create Effective Messaging - You'll learn how to ask for what you want in a powerful way that will teach people to give you quality referrals; Grow Your Network - We'll talk about where you should go to meet good networkers; Networking Partners - You'll learn the difference between synergy and strategic partners; Follow-Up Strategies - We'll bring it all together and discuss why people will refer their clients, family, and friends to you.

Velena McRae
IRS Updates for Small Businesses

IRS Updates for Small Businesses will highlight the American Recovery Reinvestment Act and what it means to the business owner. The seminar will also cover other tax information including what to do if you receive $10,000 in cash payments from a client, how to pay your taxes electronically, and one of the most important things a business owner should do in regards to their business.

Mike Weaver / Joe Chenoweth
Ackley Financial Group
My Business = My Income - How Do I Protect It?

The largest asset and source of income for most entrepreneurs is their business. Years of effort go into building a successful business and the value that accompanies it. Ackley Financial Group has almost thirty years of experience helping metroplex entrepreneurs develop, grow and protect the value of their business. Join us for an essential discussion that speaks to the key issues every business owner must consider: How do I protect the value of my business for myself, my family and my partners? What are the basic arrangements every business needs to accomplish this? How do I maintain my income even if I can no longer work? How do I ensure the commitment and loyalty of employees key to the ongoing success of the business? How can I use the business as a conduit to enhance my own personal financial position? The long term growth and prosperity of your business may well depend on how you address these basic foundational issues.

If everyone spent less than their income and paid bills on time, it would make a huge difference for having money when needed. Having extra money when needed helps you, your company, and possibly some family members get through the tough times.

Increasing your credit score will help you in many ways. If someone is looking to buy a house or car, obtain insurance, refinance to receive lower interest rates, get a credit card (to use only if necessary), or borrow money for various reasons, having a higher credit score will save you money because of being able to get a lower interest rate. It shows credibility to the financial institution looking to loan you money. They know that you have been responsible and accountable seeing your high credit score. This helps them determine that you are a good risk to repay a loan and make payments on time.

Chapter 12 (Getting Your Credit Back in Good Shape) of Credit Repair Kit for Dummies, states "Having good credit can open up doors of opportunity whereas having bad credit can close doors or at least make it harder to get through them. Getting your credit back in good shape is, therefore, something you want to do as quickly as possible. "

If you have credit cards, keep in mind a few points: (1) always pay more than the minimum portion, (2) pay them all off as quick as possible-have a plan and stick to it, no matter how long it takes, (3) never have a balance that is more than 50% of the available credit- this is a big factor in helping to increase your credit score, (4) keep in mind the high interest rates-after making payments on time for a while, call and request a lower interest rate-sometimes it works, (5) move balances to a 0% or low interest rate credit card option if available-if this is for a certain time frame, only move an amount that you can pay off in that timeframe-this helps reduce your interest costs while paying off the card (check to make sure the fee is not more than what you would pay in the interest), (6) plan on not using your cards unless you really really have to.

Other things to remember about credit cards- only use those credit cards that have perks attached to them. Airline miles and points can come in handy. If you are very disciplined with your cards and pay them off monthly, these miles and points can rack up.

Don't ever think that your credit is so bad that you just give up. Start today in small ways and get into those good habits that will help you long term. Even a year of doing the right things can get you headed in the right direction.

According to Jerrold Mundis, in his book How to Get Out of Debt, Stay Out of Debt & Live Prosperously, he says to tell yourself, "Just for today, you're not going to incur any new debt . . .You can not get out of debt by borrowing more money."

Debbie Barker Johnson with Lone Star Credit and Debt Relief (www.lonestardebtmanagement.com) can be reached locally at 214-632-0632 to raise your credit scores. She states, "Higher credit scores means lower interest rates saving you thousands of dollars on interest."

There are some great websites with lots of good information and things to watch out for: www.consumercredit.com
www.ftc.gov
www.debtorsanonymous (desire to stop incurring unsecured debt)
www.spenders.org (find out if you are a compulsive spender)

Manage your finances wisely and consciously - this will help to increase your credit score and give you peace of mind.

Before each show we outline a detailed marketing campaign to inform our exhibitors on how we get the news out and get the brides in the door. Below is the current listing of advertising mediums being used to promote the September 13, 2009, Plano Bridal Show.

TV: Fox 4, WFAA 8

Radio: 106.1 KISS FM (KHKS), 103.7 Lite FM (KVIL), 99.5 The Wolf

Newspaper: Dallas Morning News, Quick

Billboards: (all up for 4 weeks)
Lamar Outdoor (2):

Internet:bridalshowsinc.com, theknot.com, myspace.com/planobridalshow, scntx.com, 995thewolf.com, 1037litefm.com, guidelive.com, pmb.com, craigslist.com

Wedding Publications:Bride & Groom Magazine, Dallas Brides (Modern Luxury), Dweddings, Elite Bride Magazine, Metro Woman Directory, Perfect Wedding Guide, Premier Bride

Other: Multiple press releases, various local calendar listings, posters located at exhibitors' locations throughout the Metroplex, many email blasts through our website and to previously registered brides.

Every so often it is important to stop and meditate on some current trends you are seeing amongst the brides you talk to. It is advantageous to share this information with others in the industry so that we can all learn from each other and gather a solid knowledge of what the modern bride wants, especially on a local level.

On that note... we would love to gather some information from you regarding current trends. This information can then be compiled for educational purposes and be listed in the next newsletter.

Please respond to this newsletter or simply email us at news@bridalshowsinc.com telling us about some of the trends you've seen emerging recently.

We make our dreams come true or not. It is all up to each of us to make those things happen that we wish for and want. Whatever your "it" is, whether a dream or passion or goal, you really "can do" it if you want it bad enough and work at it hard enough. Ignore the "can'ts" that you hear in your own mind and from others.

We have so many choices each day. Think back a year ago of missed opportunities that either you weren't financially or professionally or emotionally ready for. What if you had planned ahead and were ready for any and all opportunities that came your way. Imagine how and what you would be doing. Now think back five years ago and come forward. There were probably some opportunities that you were able to jump on and make use of in that time. What other opportunities do you see that either you or your family missed?

No matter where you are today, you can choose today going forward to have a great, optimistic, positive attitude about every area of your life. You CAN accomplish anything you set out to do. Sometimes we have to get creative to get through the stumbling blocks.

Start planning now to watch for any positive opportunities that God puts in your path.

According to David McNally, in his book Even Eagles Need a Push, he stated, "Those who learn to soar have the courage to take a positive attitude toward life. They understand that life offers many surprises but believe that within those surprises are lessons - and that from the lessons comes wisdom. A positive attitude requires courage because it is a decision not to be defeated no matter what challenges life presents."

"Always bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed is more important than any one thing."
Abraham Lincoln

"A happy person is not a person in a certain set of circumstances, but rather a person with a certain set of attitudes."
Hugh Downs

Jeffrey Gitomer's Little Gold Book of Yes! Attitude says, "A large part of attitude achievement is the visualization. It's easier to visualize YES! than it is to visualize positive. When something great happens, no one screams, "Positive!" Everyone screams, "YES!" That's the difference. That's the YES! factor."

Each day, do one thing that helps you get where you want to be. Mix that one thing in your schedule no matter how busy you are. At the end of one year, you will have stretched and grown personally and professionally in so many ways. You will then start to add new directions to your original dream. Just imagine how much more purpose you will have in your life. Go for it!

In this economy brides are pricing who they will be working with as they are holding their wedding budget just a bit tighter to their chest. Today's bride is not just pricing when they research companies, they are looking for a company they feel good about. Being face to face with the brides at bridal shows gives you a wonderful opportunity to earn their business as it used to be when our parents and grandparents chose to do business with those they could look in the eye and shake hands with, this is what a bride is looking for now more than ever.

The bridal shows give you a chance to showcase what you do, how you differ from the competition and personalize your service but, this is just the beginning of earning their business. The common denominator for those that are thriving in this economy is that they are being consistent with the lead follow up process, not just for a month or two after the show, but for up to a year. Those who are not getting the response they expected also have a common denominator; they have sent 2-3 emails, mailers or phone calls and stopped.

The key is to keep your name, brand and company vibe fresh in their minds amidst the chaos of planning a wedding. Consumers are shown commercials, logos and have heard company slogans so often that most can tell you by sight or sound clip what the product is. The origin of the word slogan is Irish Gaelic and translates to "Battle Cry" which is what it may seem at times when trying to stay in front of potential customers.

Make a plan of attack and be consistent as potential customers are not just looking at price but, consistency which translates to reliability in their minds whether they realize it or not. Stay consistent with follow up emails, calls and direct mail to make sure you capture every possible customer's attention. Today's bride is looking at a wedding date anywhere from 3 to 24 months out and in some cases as far out as 36 months, so why would you stop trying to stay in front of them after a few months?

A great example is an experience I had while out running errands on the weekend at the end of June. There I was pushing my shopping cart when I heard "Oh Oh Oh!!!" as I turned to see what the excitement was about I noticed a woman pointing at my shirt, you see I was wearing a Bridal Shows, Inc. t- shirt. The young lady came over and said while still pointing at my shirt "is that like the Dallas Bridal Show, the one at Market Hall?" I stated that yes it was and what I did for the company and before I could say anything else she was digging in her purse and pulling out our show program from January!!

The woman continued to tell me how she carried the program with her everywhere and loved the fact that she could see all the companies in one place and take notes on the program itself. Besides from being slightly mortified by the fact that I had no makeup on and my hair was in a pony tail I was struck by the enthusiasm the bride had for the show and the exhibitors some 5 months later!

The most important piece of information this bride to be gave me was this, she started going down the list one month after the show and highlighting companies she remembered by name as a jumping off point in her research. I can most assuredly tell you why she highlighted certain companies; they followed up and were consistent in doing so!

Take a good look at how many times you are following up, what types of follow up methods are working best and ramp it up! Whatever it takes set a time aside each day to focus on reaching the brides to be and maybe you will be one of the highlighted companies in the next bride's show program!

4821 Keller Springs Rd.
Addison, TX, 75001
(Northeast corner of Keller Springs and Addison Rd.)

We have helped with some food items already. You are welcome to donate gift cards or gas cards, also. We appreciate any help you can give.

Thank you very much.

Naomi

Ruthie has spent the last 6 years building the image of Delicious Cakes and will now use her talents to assist Naomi and Bridal Shows, Inc. grow to the next level!

Get ready for this exciting new leap forward!

Discussion Topic: Owning Your Business From 2009 On
Discussion Leader: H&R Block
We can help you learn about every tax advantage and then some. Starting a business, Running a business, Retirment Planning, Net Operating Losses, Hiring your children etc.

Discussion Topic: What Does the IRS Look For When They Review Your Return?
Discussion Leader: H&R Block
Learn about what the IRS is looking for when they audit your return, both your business return and your personal return. Make sure you are following the new 2009 tax regulations.

Discussion Topic: Your Money or Your Life
Discussion Leader: Rapid Success Partners
Does it feel like a certain choice keeps cropping up in your life? If so, this roundtable discussion will offer ideas that can bring balance to your life while increasing your bank account.

Discussion Topic: Fearless Manifesting
Discussion Leader: Rapid Success Partners
If passion at work is fizzling, then it's time to play a bigger game. Fearless Manifesting offers three easy steps to rev up your passion and profits. Go from Now what? to What's next? Business growth strategist and CEO of Rapid Success Partners, Tina Ferguson, shares how doing less will actually help you make more.

Time is always moving on. Therefore, we must learn today. Today is the day we decide to be the best that we can be. Learn as much as you can to be an expert in your field. Be a student of your profession. Write articles about your expertise.

Design your own experience by having a plan. Do not be afraid to take a risk or make a mistake. Learning from our mistakes is part of what makes us better at what we do. If we learn one new thing each day, imagine what knowledge and experience we will have over time.

Get out there and make it happen. Strive to be an outstanding expert-and never stop!

Cake trends are really fun. Color is really in and so is the BLING!!! There is also excitement in the Indian Weddings as they have some beautiful color trends and design of their own.

New colors trends are the purples, pinks, olive greens, turquoise, along with black and browns.

Door prizes will include business books, cd's, restaurant gift cards, and more!

If you are interested in gaining a little added exposure by donating a door prize, call Nichole Brawner at 972- 713-9920 ext. 106. All companies donating door prizes will be listed in the conference program (if given enough advance notice) and announced at the event.

Keep in mind that the door prize must be FREE, in other words no "$50 off a $100 purchase," or "20% off," etc.

~Sandra Walton - Bridges2Bliss Wedding Consulting

"Keep up the good work! I am learning so much!"

~Amy Kasper - Arthur Murray Dance Studio

"As a small business owner I came for networking but I got so MUCH MORE! Great information, informative discussions and new friends! A great convention, end-to-end!"

~Sherri McCathrin - Aflac

"Thank You!"

~Randy Roberson - Randy Ro Entertainment

"The team that puts this event together rocks! They are on top of their game. Everything is planned and beautiful. The individuals that attend this conference are looking to network and do business, so getting contacts and leads is so easy."

~Lorraine Brock- Get Organized!

"Everyone from attendees to exhibitors to speakers were open and friendly. Made it a great experience."

~Kathy Garland- Kathy Garland International

Have you noticed most people find it easier to listen to the negative and follow negative people, thoughts, and actions? When you see or hear this take place, Be Bold and Be a Leader instead of a follower. Encourage and motivate the other person to follow a positive path instead of a negative thought or action.

You have to make a real effort to be positive and follow or lead positive. Even if you do not view yourself as a leader, only follow positive thoughts and actions. Do not let anything negative influence you. It takes constant work to be aware of your thoughts and to pay attention when someone else is being negative. When you tactfully mention another way of looking at the "negative," you just might help someone else see and notice something they have not ever known they were doing before.

As stated by Spencer Johnson, M.D., in "YES" or "NO" The Guide to Better Decisions, "We are each our own guide to better decisions. And we can help others discover this as well."

When you decide to be positive, you will be happier, healthier, and eventually wealthier over time.

In Wisdom, Inc. by Seth Godin, he wrote "Thousands of years ago, Plato wrote-The man who makes everything that leads to happiness depends upon himself, and not other men, adopted the very best plan for living happily."

Mr. Godin also stated "Sometimes looking at a situation from a different perspective leads to visions beyond your wildest dreams. It's like an editor we know who used to proofread an entire magazine upside-down. He claimed that way he caught errors he would surely otherwise miss. Apply the upside-down technique to larger issues, and you might come up with a truly visionary approach."

Dream and Live Positive!