Couples looking to tie the knot are invited to attend the It’s a Wedding gala on Oct. 15.

The event is in its first year and founder Laura Cadrin said they are looking forward to presenting brides and grooms with a different sort of event.

“It’s a little bit different from the normal trade shows that are out there right now.”

Cadrin said the idea behind it was to find a way to connect with couples looking to get married on a more personal level and provide them with more one-on-one time with businesses.

“We wanted to be able to bring the potential brides and grooms more information on tips for their wedding and how to choose the right businesses to help them and give them some advice from the wedding industry.”

Cadrin said trade shows don’t often provide that kind of atmosphere to their attendees and that the It’s a Wedding event will provide couples more time to talk to representatives about products and services.

On top of being a place for brides and grooms to find what they need to pull together a wedding, it is also a gala evening with a fully catered supper as well as cake tasting, a dance and a fun casino to follow.

“We wanted to offer our couples a chance to celebrate their upcoming wedding by providing them with an evening where they first come through the door and are greeted by paparazzi.”

After having their photos taken, couples will walk the red carpet into the outer area to talk to businesses and get ideas as well as ask questions and get some answers.

“The Holiday Inn on 67th where this is taking place will be decorated for a wedding so couples will get lots of ideas for looks and styles they might like to incorporate.”

The evening is a formal event meant to be a true night out for engaged couples. Cadrin said they are looking to host about 109 couples to keep the event smaller and more personal.

Cadrin also said the point of the evening is as much to show couples potential wedding ideas as it is to make sure that they enjoy themselves and have fun while learning about wedding options available to them.

Some of the businesses that will be present for the evening include wedding commissioners, DJs, photographers, tailors, dress shops, flower boutiques, makeup specialists, travel agents and event coordinators.

The event will progress after the supper into some networking opportunities with local businesses for the couples.

“It’s going to be a really interactive evening full of celebration and fun.”

To purchase tickets or for more information visit www.itsawedding.ca or call 403-340-0773.

kpalardy@reddeerexpress.com