Downtown Jefferson City is reprising an event it started two years ago, with increased involvement from businesses that have arrived since then.
The Downtown Bridal Stroll, showcasing the offerings of 12 local vendors who serve the wedding industry, is set for noon-3 p.m. Sunday.
The Downtown Association first hosted a bridal stroll in 2013, but did not have enough participating businesses for a repeat event in 2014. Now, with new businesses Ana Marie's Bridal, Avenue HQ and The Millbottom, as well as Frosted Art Studio's relocation to East High Street, the Downtown Bridal Stroll has new life.
"We're just trying to show everybody what downtown Jefferson City has to offer" to future brides and grooms beginning their wedding plans, said event co-chair Wendy Gladbach, owner of Ana Marie's Bridal. "It gives them a chance to visit each store and see all they have to offer, versus the few things they might bring to a bridal show."
Most participating downtown businesses normally are not open for business on Sundays.
"When you go to a bridal show, you don't get to experience the atmosphere of the business and also plan your wedding all in one area so easily. You can literally plan your entire wedding in one day, within a square mile," said event co-chair Angela Bax. "It is also so convenient for a bride that wants to visit venues without having to set an appointment - most of the time you have to make an appointment to see venue spaces, but with this event all of the doors will be open."
Those who attend the stroll will have a chance to win a gift card giveaway by picking up a card at Ana Marie's Bridal or Midwest Travel Consultants, having it marked to show they visited each participating business, and returning it to Ana Marie's Bridal or Midwest Travel Consultants to enter a drawing.
The Trolley Company will provide free transportation from the corner of East High and Madison streets to the businesses not located in the central downtown area.
Gladbach noted they hope to continue the Downtown Bridal Stroll as an annual event in the fall.
The full list of participating vendors includes:
Ana Marie's Bridal, bridal gown and accessory boutique at 223 E. High St.
Avenue HQ, event venue at 621 E. Capitol Ave.
Carrie's Hallmark Shop, gift shop offering stationery at 117 E. High St.
Frosted, bakery at 202 E. High St.
Midwest Travel Consultants, travel agency at 207 E. High St.
REVEL Catering and Events, caterer and event space at 102 E. High St.
River City Florist & Gifts, florist at 212 Madison St.
Samuel's Tuxedos & Gifts, tuxedo rental shop at 236 E. High St.
The Millbottom, event venue at 400 W. Main St.
The Trolley Company, charter bus provider at 712 E. High St.
Southbank Gift Company, gift shop at 110 E. High St.
High Street Retreat, Victorian home for rental at 712 E. High St.