“Scammers set up a Web site advertising a fake bridal show and wedding expo billed as the “biggest and most extravagant” and used it to steal from thousands of brides-to-be and their vendors, who were lured by chances to win “fabulous gifts and prizes,” police and FBI experts said Monday.”
The scenario is very real and is happening across the country, leaving brides stranded and without recourse.
When looking at bridal shows and wedding expos, make certain to give them your due diligence to assure you are not being taken by a scammer.
Here are just a few of the recent news postings regard this growing trend of deception and fraud:
http://www.ewednewz.com/2013/12/uptick-in-wedding-scams/
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/03/02/fake-bridal-show-the-bost_n_481882.html
Shining Star Photo Booth provides some general guidance to protect yourself:
- Ask the show promoter for references of past vendors that have participated in their shows.
- Make sure the promoter will issue a refund in the event the show is cancelled.
- Ask what the inclement weather policy is.
- Ask for a list of vendors that will be participating in the show you wish to attend.
- Contact the venue the show is listed as being located at and confirm they have it on their schedule.
- Pay your advance registration with a check – never cash.
Also – keep in mind, when it comes to bridal shows, there are many quality vendors that do not participate in that show. In order to team up with the vendor that is best for you and your big day, contact several vendors that were not at the show and ask them for quotes or service estimates. Let them know you were at the show, but would like to see what they offer. You will often find that many of the best vendors are often too busy providing services to clients and do not need to advertise at bridal shows.
