Shropshire Star Face of the Future Jodie-Lee Jones on the Shropshire Brides stand at Telford Town Centre. Pictures by Andy Cunningham.

Telford’s 2009 Wedding Exhibition has already proved a success after its first two days, with exhibitors reporting a flood of interest from not only brides-to-be but their mothers, grooms and those attending weddings in the coming year, writes Sue Austin.

Yesterday Shropshire’s Face of the Future Jodie-Lee Jones toured the exhibition at Telford Shopping Centre and revealed she was taking an extra interest as her mother, Gail, planned to marry her partner, John, in March.

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Telford’s 2009 Wedding Exhibition has already proved a success after its first two days, with exhibitors reporting a flood of interest from not only brides-to-be but their mothers, grooms and those attending weddings in the coming year, writes Sue Austin.

Yesterday Shropshire’s Face of the Future Jodie-Lee Jones toured the exhibition at Telford Shopping Centre and revealed she was taking an extra interest as her mother, Gail, planned to marry her partner, John, in March.

Wearing a “porcini coloured” outfit supplied by Coast and Shoe Studio in House of Fraser, Jodie-Lee said: “I will be looking round myself to get some ideas for my mum’s wedding and of course looking at outfits for guests.”

One of the businesses taking part is Chauffeured Classic Cars of Newport, (01952) 814606, which has added much more to its service, including a bride’s foot lady to assist her.

Owner Mal Johnson said his was the only company in the region to offer this VIP treatment at no extra cost. His company specialises in Daimler DS420s, a favoured car for the Royal Family.

“The foot lady travels with the chauffeur and is on hand for all situations,” he said.

“She carries a housewife kit in the car for the odd eventuality which is pressed into all kinds of reasons. The feedback from brides has been really positive over the years and that is what it is all about. We want to do our utmost to provide that perfect day.

“The car stays at the church, the chauffeur staying with the car, the foot lady remaining at the entrance to the church to be on hand when needed.” 

Other businesses include bridal gown and menswear companies, representatives of all kinds of wedding venues, florists and cake makers, hair and beauty experts, photographers and even an artist specialising in caricatures.

Joint co-ordinator Maureen Perks said having the exhibition running all week meant that people could return to the event.

“The bride’s mum, for instance, may come and have a look round at her leisure then bring the bride who then brings the groom later in the week,” she said.

By Sue Austin