Bull Thistle Bridal and Home Town Events announce the upcoming Upstate Wedding Expo from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., March 3, at the Canasawacta Country Club located at 261 County Road 44. (Submitted Photo)

NORWICH — Wedding Season is fast approaching and there is no better time than now to begin planning one of the most important days of a lifetime.

The Upstate Wedding Expo will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sunday, March 3, at The Canasawacta Country Club, located at 261 County Road 44.

The free event is hosted by Karri Beckwith, owner of Bull Thistle Bridal, located at 4 North Canal Street in Oxford, and Chelsea Lehmann, owner of Home Town Events, located in Hamilton.

Beckwith said The Canasawacta Country Club Caterer Heather McShane has been very involved from the beginning and the three women put their heads together to create the event.

“We're thrilled to host the Upstate Wedding Expo and provide couples with a platform to explore endless possibilities for their special day,” said Beckwith. “The first 150 people through the door will receive a gift bag and vendors will be offering their own giveaways.”

Beckwith said wedding season is from May to October, and with that being right around the corner, engaged couples are gearing up to plan their day. Beckwith hopes to kickstart the soon-to-be married couples into a journey of one stop shopping for all things matrimonial.

She said the event will provide elegant venues, exquisite floral arrangements, live models, discounted bridal fashion and additional formal dresses, delectable catering options, a myriad of vendors and services tailored to every aspect of the big day, and a cash bar.

“This event is not just about showcasing products and services,” Beckwith said. “It's about creating an experience where couples can find inspiration, make meaningful connections, and embark on their wedding planning journey with confidence.”

She said the Upstate Wedding Expo promises a day filled with creativity and endless possibilities, making it a must attend event for anyone planning a wedding. She added, attendees can expect to gain inspiration from stunning displays and interactive exhibits showcasing the latest trends in bridal fashion, décor, and themes.

“There will be live demonstrations, tastings, and consultations to help turn wedding visions into reality and exclusive deals, discounts, and giveaways offered by 48 vendors,” she said. “And industry experts and seasoned professionals will be on hand to offer invaluable advice and tips on planning the perfect wedding.”

“Let us help you bring your wedding dreams to life,” said Beckwith.

She said Bull Thistle Bridal was founded in July 2023 in Oxford and their shop slogan is, ‘Say Yes to the Dress For Less!’.

“Due to our rural location, residents must travel at least an hour to shop for any type of formal wear,” said Beckwith. “I have always felt that our area would benefit from a store that would give clients the opportunity to purchase the same dresses they would find at a high-end retail store, yet at a very discounted price.”

She explained the dresses are purchased at close-out auctions and are usually sample, discounted or older stock dresses. Some have small defects with buttons missing, loose threads, or soiled hems, but she discloses any issues that she finds.

Beckwith said she and her husband are lifelong residents of Chenango County and are very proud to welcome new clientele into the area. They just moved their retail location to 4 North Canal Street in the village of Oxford.

“We know the pricing and quality of our products are enough to keep people coming back and we’re also highly committed to customer satisfaction and creating a comfortable and intimate shopping experience that can’t be found anywhere else,” she added.

Bull Thistle Bridal is open by appointment only. To schedule, call 607-373-9770. For more information go to bullthistlebridal.com or visit the shop on Facebook and Instagram.