LWA Membership

What are the benefits of becoming an LWA member?

Membership benefits include:

  • Complete lead lists from each bridal show you participate in
  • Featured placement in our vendor directory
  • Social media promotion for your business
  • Quarterly member networking events
  • Free electricity at bridal shows (a $50 value per show)
  • Eligibility for annual Business of the Year awards
  • Early access to show booth selection

How much does membership cost?

Annual LWA membership is $100 per calendar year.

Is membership required to participate in bridal shows?

No, membership is optional. However, members receive significant benefits including lead lists and reduced costs for show add-ons like electricity and Wifi. Only LWA members are listed in the Vendor Directory.

How do I join the LWA?

You can join by purchasing a membership through our website or by adding membership when you register for one of our bridal shows.

When does membership renew?

Memberships run for one calendar year from date of purchase. You'll receive a renewal notice approximately 30 days before your membership expires.

Are there membership meetings?

Yes, we host quarterly networking events for members, which include industry updates, educational components, and opportunities to connect with fellow wedding professionals. Free food is always provided by one of our vendors.

Bridal Shows

What are the booth options and costs?

We offer four booth sizes:

  • Single Booth (8'x8'): $600
  • Double Booth (16'x8'): $1,000
  • Triple Booth (24'x8'): $1,500
  • Micro Booth (6'x6'): $400

Multi-show discounts are available:

  • Book 2 shows: Save $100
  • Book all 3 shows: 50% off April show fees

What's included with my booth?

Each booth includes:

  • 6' covered table
  • Two vendor badges
  • Listing in show directory

Additional add-ons available:

  • Corner Placement: $100
  • End Cap Placement (double booths only): $200
  • Pipe & Drape: $100
  • Electricity: $50 (free for members)

How are booth locations assigned?

Vendors are assigned based on:

  1. Membership status
  2. Date of registration
  3. Vendor category balance
  4. Special requirements

What are the category limits for vendors?

We limit the number of vendors in each category to ensure a balanced show and fair opportunity for all businesses. Once a category reaches its limit, additional vendors may register at double the booth price.

How do I receive the lead list after a show?

Lead lists are emailed to LWA members who participated in the show within 24 hours after the event ends. These lists include contact information for attendees who consented to share their information with vendors.

Can I share or sell the lead list?

No. The registration leads list is the property of the Lansing Wedding Association and is provided to exhibiting members only. Unauthorized use, sale, or distribution of the leads list is prohibited and subject to penalties of up to $5,000 per violation.

What's the average attendance at your shows?

Our shows typically attract 300-500 engaged couples plus their friends and family members, resulting in total attendance between 800-1,200 people. The January show tends to have the highest attendance.

How should I prepare for a successful show?

The most successful vendors:

  • Have an eye-catching, professional booth display
  • Offer a show-specific special or discount
  • Bring plenty of business cards and brochures
  • Have a clear way to collect visitor information
  • Provide an attractive door prize (beyond the required minimum)
  • Engage actively with attendees rather than waiting for them to approach
  • Follow up with leads within 48 hours after the show

Logistical Questions

When can I set up my booth?

Set-up times are typically the morning of the show (7:00 AM - 10:00 AM). Exact times will be emailed to registered vendors approximately two weeks before the show. Shows run from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Vendors must have their booths staffed for the entire duration of the show.

Packing up early sends the wrong message to the afternoon attendees. We expect you'll provide them with the same care and attention until the last guest is gone. Vendors who pack up before 4:00 PM may be banned from future events.

What promotional items can I distribute?

You may distribute business cards, brochures, promotional items, and samples that relate to your business. Food samples must be bite-sized (approximately 1 oz.) and comply with health department regulations.

Am I required to donate a door prize?

Yes, all vendors are required to provide a door prize with a value of at least $25. The prize cannot be a discount off services and must not require a purchase to redeem.

When are final payments due?

All payments are due no later than 30 days prior to the show date. Payments are non-refundable.

Is there a vendor meeting before the show?

Yes, we host a vendor meeting approx. 6 weeks before each expo to distribute yard signs, share venue information, and answer any questions.

Can I hang items from the ceiling or walls?

Venues do not allow anything to be affixed to the walls or ceilings. All displays must be free-standing or tabletop. If you'd like a backdrop, we offer Pipe & Drape.

Business of the Year Awards

What is the Business of the Year competition?

This annual recognition honors outstanding vendors in each category based on customer reviews, professional standards, and industry contribution.

How are winners selected?

Winners are determined by:

  • Number and quality of customer reviews
  • Overall rating score
  • Professionalism and adherence to industry standards
  • Participation in LWA events and initiatives

When are winners announced?

Winners are announced at our first quarterly member event each year, typically held in March.

What do winners receive?

Business of the Year winners receive:

  • Official award trophy
  • Featured placement in our vendor directory
  • Special recognition on social media and in promotional materials
  • Press release to local media outlets