By Shelby Clark Petkus
SOUTHFIELD – BTL's Wedding Expo is fast approaching!
"But what if I'm not getting married? What if I'm single?"
No need to worry. Despite it's large focus on LGBT wedding related vendors, the expo functions as a great, inclusive space for all LGBT and allies.
Expo vendors offer a variety of services regardless of wedding plans. Beauty services, restaurants, bakeries and dessert shops, security services, inclusive churches, supportive banks and more are a variety of local and state businesses that will be on site. Networking among LGBT and LGBT-friendly businesses is another great reason to attend the expo, regardless of relationship status.
As for the event's "Pride in Spring" atmosphere, dancing, games, drag queens, good food and other activities make the wedding expo a nonstop party from start to finish.
StarTrax will be providing fantastic entertainment, including an emcee and great DJs, to keep the party going; expect the last hour of the expo to be a dance party. Even if you're not getting married, a fashion show with both unique and traditional wedding gowns by B. Ella Bridal and suits by President Tuxedo will be an exciting presentation, particularly with the celebrity models that will be revealed.
Bill Hamilton Designs is creating a unique food court, described as looking like a "streetscape." Great food options will be available to try in addition to the multiple samples offered by the catering, baking and chocolatier vendor tables.
If romance bores you, find excitement with the expo "games." An inflatable gaming area, "Twisted Love," will feature three-legged races, interactive "Twister" games, and more… all for great prizes. If that's a bit too taxing, a "Prize Cube" game will allow you to try and grab coupons whirling around in a cube for services from expo vendors.
After working off your samples at these games, relax at a "Sanctuary Space," a luxe area within the expo to relax on white couches. Vendors offering massages, hair treatments, makeup application and more are nearby to help you unwind.
Looking to unwind further at the expo? Barefoot Wine is providing complimentary wine at the expo's wine bar, in addition to a cash bar.
Over 100 different prizes can be won just by attending the expo, as well. Multiple tickets to ABBA, West Side Story and other plays, concerts and musicals are on hand, in addition to trips, gift certificates and even jewelry.
Even if you don't win a prize, every expo attendee gets a "swag bag" full of goodies, discounts and more.
On the more serious side of things, support your fellow LGBTQ by looking into the LGBT Caucus Booth on site. Supporters of LGBT rights and LGBT non-profit organizations such as Affirmations and Equality Michigan will be offering support, information and more to all attendees.
Still sound like the expo is only for couples? We think not!
The Ultimate LGBT Wedding & Anniversary Expo runs from 12 to 6 p.m. April 12 at the Southfield Civic Pavilion, 26000 Evergreen Road, Southfield. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door. Registering online for the expo takes $5 off the ticket price.
Stay tuned to BTL's Facebook for chances to win passes to the expo! For more information, visit http://www.btlweddingexpo.com.
