How to Win a Dream Wedding

Every bride dreams of the perfect wedding: a fantastic dress, impeccable catering, smiling guests and all expenses paid with money to boot. Unfortunately, planning and executing a wedding is an expense for which most couples have to scrimp and save for months. It's enough for some couples to wind up starting their marriages with debt. Contests offer a way for a few lucky couples to win that wedding of their dreams.

Things You'll Need

• Bridal magazines
• Valid credit card

Instructions

1. Browse bridal magazines for contest opportunities. Enter every one you come across, providing them with all the details about your wedding, including the date and theme if you are planning one. Make sure you fill in the contest entry form completely so there is no problem contacting you if you win.

2. Visit bridal shops. From time to time, the bridal shops will team up with local vendors and caterers to create contests that cover the winner's wedding expenses. Check the contest details to make sure they coincide with your wedding plans and date before entering.

3. Browse online survey contests. Survey companies ask for an hour of your time in return for a contest entry. You will have to provide them with details about your household, health maladies, spending habits and more.

4. Look for wedding essay contests. You will have to pen a short, descriptive essay about a wedding topic or your relationship with your fiance. Be sure to read all the essay contests details, including the submission deadline, and polish your essay before you submit. Competition will be stiff, so make sure your essay stands out.

5. Watch for television network contests. From time to time, television networks will put together bridal contests with the agreement that if you win, they can film and televise the preparations and the wedding.

6. Make your case stand out when entering dream wedding contests. If your wedding plans are unique and special, they will be more likely to grab the attention of judges, increasing your chances of winning.

Tips & Warnings

• Many essay contests are ongoing, but double-check submission deadlines before entering.

• Some survey sites may ask you to participate in sponsor offers in order to qualify for entry, which may prompt you to use your credit card. Avoid these offers, as there are a number of free survey sites. Be cautious whenever you are asked to provide financial data or credit card information.

References

• Destination Wedding
• Bridal Association of America
• DIY Bride

Resources

• Sonoma Wedding Show