Town goes bridal with 100s at Fair
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Lace and Glam Bridal model Morgan White, a University of Tennesssee senior, shows a gown featuring a purple-gray hue at Shop Farragut/Farragut Business Alliance’s inaugural Farragut Bridal Fair, which took place in Farragut Community Center Sunday, April 18. - Photos by Tammy Cheek
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Amanda Laprinse, Copper Cellar - Photos by Tammy Cheek
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From left, Rick Terry, Sarah, Tori Cunningham, Patty Terry, Emily Compton - Photos by Tammy Cheek
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Steve Krempasky - Photos by Tammy Cheek
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Flour Power’s Becky Stanforth and Kelly Longmire with Sarah King (front right) and Christy King - Photos by Tammy Cheek
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Chef Stephen Coley of Longhorn Steakhouse serves Julia Lyle - Photos by Tammy Cheek
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From left, Melissa Cartozza, Rheagan Haynes and Sherry Hovan - Photos by Tammy Cheek
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From left, Sarah Russell, Kevin Knights and Caitlin Riggs - Photos by Tammy Cheek
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Jen Ollis of Jen Ollis Luxury Travel - Photos by Tammy Cheek
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Allison Mason - Photos by Tammy Cheek
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Cathy Nutthall - Photos by Tammy Cheek
Hundreds of Farragut and area residents — from couples planning their upcoming nuptials to their family members — attended Shop Farragut/Farragut Business Alliance’s inaugural Farragut Bridal Fair in Farragut Community Center Sunday, April 18.
“We had approximately 270 patrons, with 32 vendor booths featuring vendors and their guests adding up to 82, plus another dozen models for the beautiful wedding gowns showcased by Lace & Glam Bridal Shoppe,” said Steve Krempasky, executive director of Shop Farragut/FBA.
Vendors and attendees alike expressed their pleasure at being at the Fair, the Town’s first in-person event since the pandemic was first recognized in the United States in March 2020.
“We got a lot of questions from the brides about what kind of packages we offer,” said Paola Nielsen-Lensgraf, owner of Medi Spa at Choto.
“Our vendors thanked me profusely and are ready to do it all over again,” Krempasky said. “They were pleased with the crowd that we attracted.”
While some vendors offered food and others supplied advice, Lace and Glam Bridal in Farragut presented a fashion show in which its models displayed bridal gowns, from the simple to the elaborate.
Brides-to-be also learned about options in wedding rings, honeymoons, possible gifts such as cookware, special occasion rentals and planning — and even financial planning after the wedding.
“The setup was really great,” said Jeaneen Cox, a Knoxville resident who plans to marry in November. “All the vendors were nice and very helpful.”
Krempasky said the vendors’ booths overflowed outside of the center. He noted while obtaining vendors was a struggle at first, many signed up at once. “We actually had to turn down 21,” he added.
“It’s wonderful,” said Deanne Benorden, who’s daughter Ashley is planning to marry. “I think it’s great to get access to all of these businesses showing their talents.”
Vendors included everyone from restaurants and caterers to a bridal shop and men’s tuxedo shops, financial institutions and insurance agencies.
“This is great,” bride-to-be Jennifer Louie said. “I like all of the giveaways, and the set up is really nice. There’s lots of great information.”
“It’s nice it was on a Sunday so we could come,” said Alexandra Boutilier, who plans to marry on Nov. 7.
Many said they simply were glad the event provided a chance to get out and about again — even with masks.
“I believe the hard work of our small organizing committee, the generous support of our sponsors, the Town of Farragut and the vendors paid off,” Krempasky said. “Plus, the good Lord gave us a beautiful day, so our outdoor trade-show added even more excitement.”
