On Saturday, October 4, hit the one-day Washington Bridal Showcase at the Bethesda Marriott. It’s the largest bridal show in Montgomery County and the last one this season. There’ll be runway shows, samplings, music, and plenty of booths, and the first 500 brides in the door will receive a year’s subscription to Modern Bride magazine. Marjorie Maxfield, author of The Write Stuff: A Modern Guide to Personal Stationery and Weddings, will be there to give presentations on etiquette and stationery. Tickets, which can be purchased online here, are $8 online and $10 at the door. 11 to 5.

Also on Saturday, the Ritz-Carlton in Tysons Corner will host its first-ever South Asian Bridal Soiree, geared especially for couples planning a South Asian wedding. New York-based wedding consultant Sonal J. Shah has assembled a range of high-quality Washington-based bridal vendors for the event. Admission includes a catered luncheon by Tandoori Nights plus a chance to win a honeymoon at any Ritz-Carlton hotel. The event is $20 for the first attendee and $5 for each additional guest. On Saturday, registration begins at 11:30; the event runs until 4.

Next Wednesday, Seasons Cards and Gifts will hold its monthly Wedding Wednesday from 6 to 8. The newly engaged can get a jump on planning with wedding planners, photographers, restaurateurs, and caterers. While you’re there, Seasons can help with print services—including invitations, place cards, and favors. The best part is that it’s free, and it’s going on in both the Gainesville (8014 Crescent Park Dr.) and South Riding (25050 Riding Plaza) locations. Reservations are recommended; call 703-753-0797 for Gainesville and 703-327-1114 for South Riding. A word of advice: The Gainesville store is larger, so head there if you’re taking a large group.

If you’re a member of the military, live or serve in Washington, and are getting married next year, Fluffy Thoughts Cakes (571-213-1513) wants to thank you. The McLean-based specialty bakery is sponsoring a giveaway for one free wedding cake to a member of the armed forces. Enter by sending your name, number, the date and location of the wedding, why you should win, and a photo of you and your betrothed to lara8@aol.com. Entries are being accepted through November 1, and the recipient will be selected on November 11, Veterans Day.

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