Wheaton Wedding Walk makes fall debut
Because more women seem to be getting engaged in summer, the Downtown Wheaton Association has decided to move its annual Wedding Walk to the fall.
Nearly 40 businesses are taking part in the walk, which will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, in downtown.
"We felt we could provide a service in the fall season, when you don't have as much competition on the weekend from various wedding walks," said Downtown Wheaton Association Executive Director Paula Barrington.
The association sponsored its first wedding walk this past spring, but only about 35 brides attended. Barrington is hopeful the new season and $10 entry fee, which includes admission for the bride and one guest, will attract attendees this time around.
Tickets are on sale at downtownwheaton.com. The admission cost for additional guests is $5 per person. Prices will be the same at the door on the day of the event.
Brides can pick up their registration packet, including a map with all the participating businesses, and a goody bag at AlphaGraphics, 128 N. Main St.
Anyone who visits at least 75 percent of the businesses in the wedding walk will be entered into a raffle for three bridal prize baskets.
"There is quite a bit down here for brides that are looking for something that is a little more personalized," Barrington said. "Here you can get personal flowers, wonderful dresses, great intimate spaces for receptions that are memorable."
Some examples of wedding-related products and services that will be featured on the walk, she said, include custom floral arrangements by Andrew's Flowers; couture wedding dresses at The Dress by Nicole; and private dining rooms at Ivy or The Bank.
Other stores will showcase stationary that can be used for invites and thank yous, wedding favors for guests, gifts for the bridal party and desserts for the reception.
"It's a fun event, and we know it kind of caters to a specific group," said Lori Kanter, events and administrative coordinator for the Downtown Wheaton Association. "It's not like we expect hundreds and hundreds of people, but it's a nice service to offer here."
She added that the walk isn't meant to compete with others that have significantly more vendors.
"It's a little bit more local, but it's a little bit more of a personal feel," she said. "Having to go from one store, outside, to another, to another, gives them a little bit of time to digest what they have just seen."