Southern Kentucky Bridal Expo draws couples planning ahead

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WNKY) – Couples planning weddings in 2026, 2027 and beyond filled the Knicely Conference Center for the 12th annual Southern Kentucky Bridal Expo, turning the event into a one-stop shop for wedding planning across the region.

Vendors from across the wedding industry spent the day meeting face-to-face with future brides and grooms, helping them sort through everything from venues to formalwear.

Jennifer Brashear, venue coordinator with Ironwood, said many of the couples she spoke with are just beginning the planning process.

“It kind of brings everyone together in one spot so our couples, or hopeful couples, can come around and get information and it just makes it an easier process for them,” Brashear said.

She said some couples are already booking well into the future.

“Probably July 2026, and then they’re looking at anywhere from April to October of 2027,” Brashear said.

Formal wear was also a major focus at the expo, as grooms look for alternatives to renting.

Tyler Brown, owner of FHG Clothiers, said many couples want to get more value out of their wedding budget.

“We’re really seeing just people want to get more bang for their buck,” Brown said.

Brown said being part of the expo is also about staying connected to the community, noting many of the couples are longtime customers or family members of past clients.

Organizers say the event continues to draw couples from Bowling Green and surrounding areas each year.