Weddings

Where & When: Bridal Edition

Check out these sample sales and bridal expos—then take a fun trip to the movies with your bridesmaids to chill out.

This gown would look lovely on a bridesmaid—or an MOB! Check it out at Ann’s Boutique. Photograph courtesy of Alvina Valenta

Now until August 25
Gather your bridesmaids and take a break from wedding planning at the Arlington Drafthouse. They’re showing the hilarious flick Bridesmaids and—bonus!—there’s a full restaurant and bar menu so you can make a night out of it. Visit Arlington Drafthouse’s Web site for more information.

Now until August 31
All month long, you can save on wedding gowns, bridesmaids dresses, mother-of-the-bride outfits, veils, accessories, and shoes at Chevy Chase Bridal’s semi-annual sample sale. Some items are discounted up to 80 percent, and if you bring in a printed copy of this blog post, you’ll get an additional 15 percent off. Call 202-363-9301 to make an appointment.

Friday, August 19, to Sunday, August 21
Check out the newest collection from Amsale at Betsy Robinson’s Bridal Collection in Baltimore. These gowns combine classic silhouettes with modern details. Call 410-484-4600 to make an appointment.

Sunday, August 21
Two big bridal shows take place in Maryland­: the T Rose International Bridal Show at the Greenbelt Marriott, and the Elaborate Weddings and Events Expo at the Cherry Hill Conference Center in College Park. Both will feature lots of vendors in one place to help you kick start your wedding planning process.

Thursday, August 25 to Saturday, August 27
Monique Lhuillier has dressed celebrity brides such as Carrie Underwood and Reese Witherspoon, and she’ll be showcasing her new Spring 2012 collection at Carine’s Bridal Atelier. This trunk show is available by appointment only (and we have a feeling it will book up fast), so give Carine’s call at 202-965-4696 to set yours up.

Friday, August 26, to Friday, September 2
Looking for bridesmaids dresses? Visit Ann’s Boutique in Burke to view the brand-new ‘maids collection from Alvina Valenta. And don’t forget to bring Mom with you­—some of the gowns (like the style pictured at right) could certainly work as youthful, yet formal MOB dresses. Call 703-250-3100 to make an appointment.

Sunday, August 28
University of Virginia couples, take note. The Elegance in Bridal Show in Charlottesville will be held from 1 to 4 PM at the Omni Hotel on West Main Street. You’ll meet lots of wedding vendors, sample food, and have the opportunity to win prizes. Tickets are $10 at the door, $7 if you register in advance. Visit the show’s Web site for more details.

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Senior editor

Andrew Beaujon joined Washingtonian in late 2014. He was previously with the Poynter Institute, TBD.com, and Washington City Paper. He lives in Del Ray.