Something old, something loo
Wedding venues like parents’ backyards and lakeshore parks can be a little short on facilities for hundreds of dinner guests – especially later in the day.
This is where the traveling luxury loo comes in.
Tastefully decorated inside a white trailer, this stylish honey bucket looks – and smells – better than many stationary bathrooms, and it features heating, air conditioning, music, hot and cold water, a skylight and a porcelain commode.
“It’s big enough that the bride can actually get dressed in here,” said Brenda Rollins, of Post Falls-based Kustom Occasions Inc., which rents out the loo. “The skylight is a big hit with most people. It’s not just for outdoor weddings – sometimes you just need a few extra facilities.”
The loo is just one exhibit at this weekend’s Bridal Festival at the Convention Center, where more than 120 vendors are showcasing pretty much everything Inland Northwest brides and grooms could possibly wish for.
“We easily had 2,500 visitors,” Tammy Schneider, producer of the Bridal Festival, said about Saturday’s turnout.
The fashion show is a festival highlight, featuring gowns and dresses and tuxedos and jeans for every member of the wedding party.
“There are not a lot of white gowns this year, but more ivory, cream, off-white and even a blush color with a little rose in it,” Schneider said.
Many featured gowns were strapless.
Some were dressed up with a bright sash or cowboy boots.
“The fashion styles and trends change a lot from year to year,” Schneider said. “It’s always a good place to get ideas.”
A fair number of men perused the festival’s booths.
A stone-faced John Crowell, 22, was one of them.
“He’s just here to appease me,” said Jessica Sylvester, 21, Crowell’s fiancée, as they waited for the fashion show to begin.
The Spokane couple will get married on June 14; they were looking for a limousine service and a few things for their wedding reception.
Florists, caterers, fancy rides such as a stretch Hummer and a Rolls-Royce, and more than two dozen ceremony and reception sites were also featured.
Among possible nuptials sites: the newly renovated Fox Theater.
“You can get married on stage or in one of several smaller areas,” said Jenifer Johnston, the Fox’s booking manager.
“Since the grand opening in November, we’ve already had quite a few private parties.”
Deejays and entertainers offered their services.
Perhaps Mick Jagger isn’t a personal friend of yours, but you’d like him at your wedding.
“That’s where I come in,” said Randy Wilcox of the impersonator band Smash Hit Carnival. Wilcox looks the part, and he travels with a carbon copy of Johnny Cash.
“We do a lot of weddings – it’s usually great fun,” Wilcox said. “People are happy … It’s a great party.”