After the question has been popped and the ring has been securely sized on that all-important left hand, the excitement of wedding planning can officially begin. Luckily for area brides, the annual Milledgeville Bridal Show at the Milledgeville Country Club will feature plenty of photography, gift, honeymoon, catering, venue and wedding coordination booths to make wedding planning as easy as cutting that first slice of cake on the wedding day.

Erin Simmons has coordinated the wedding show for years and the show boasts around 35 to 40 vendors every year.

“We’re looking for anyone with wares related to floral, jewelry, bridal, photography, catering, gift ideas, honeymoon and beauty products or services. There will be giveaways during the show every 30 minutes. Instead of a cake dive this year, we will be doing something a little different,” Simmons said.

This year, brides will be treated to a gourmet cupcake tasting, courtesy of Slice in Milledgeville. Shannon Stubbs, a licensed baker, has been astounding the area with her creations and her involvement with the wedding show is sure to make a delicious impression on all in attendance.

“There will be a ring hidden in one of the cupcakes and the lucky bride who has the ring will receive a $300 gift certificate to J.C. Grant Jewelers,” Simmons said.

A stay in a lake view suite at The Lodge on Lake Oconee will also be given away at the bridal show.

“Of course there will be lots of samples and a limited lunch menu for those who would like to lunch at the country club. The event will be emceed by Walter Reynolds of Z-97 radio station, and we are really looking forward to having him there for bridal show day,” Simmons said.

The cost to attend the bridal show is $10 per bride, and guests of the bride attend the show for free, but are not eligible to win prizes. The admission fee covers prizes, gift bags and the cupcake tasting.

“The show really gives you that wedding atmosphere,” Simmons said. “All of the samples and prizes just give it a really elegant feel. Even if you aren’t a bride you can go to get great ideas for gifts.”

Kiosks range from bridesmaid’s gifts, themed gifts for Bachelorette parties, house wares, tote bags, cutlery, glassware and silver to celebrate the bride-to-be.

“Come ready to win prizes. We’ve had brides in the past who have won flowers, discounts for wedding services, trips, a photo booth session for the wedding reception, free sitting fee for photography and wine. These are great prizes,” Simmons said. “It is definitely worth it to join us.”

The bridal show will be held from 1:30 until 4 p.m. on Feb. 26 at the Milledgeville Country Club. Feb. 22 is the deadline for vendors to apply to be a part of the show and the fee is $75 to be a part of the show, or $50 with participation in the bridal magazine. For more information on becoming involved, contact (478) 453-1414 to speak with a representative.