If you are making arrangements for your upcoming marriage, or you know of someone who is, then the Belk Store at Scotland Crossing could be the place you need to be this weekend when the semi-annual in-store expo takes place Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m. The event offers couples a one-stop shopping experience for all their wedding registry needs, as well as the opportunity to work with local businesses in the community to plan their wedding.The event will be free and open to the public.

"This really is a one-stop shopping opportunity for brides and their future spouses," Area Sales Manager Patricia Bryant said. "Someone from every aspect of bridal planning will be here, at their own table, where you can speak with them and plan your dream wedding."

Many businesses that deal with weddings will be in attendance, including food caterers, florists, photographers, printers, bakers, limousine rentals and others. Special product displays will also be featured throughout the store.

Brides will receive a wedding registry planner and will be able to register their gift selections at Belk's during the expo.

"This event provides a great opportunity for brides-to-be to get all their planning done at one place," Bryant said. "What might normally take an entire day could be accomplished here in a couple of hours."

The store’s certified bridal consultants will be on hand to give advice and to help couples determine what items they need for their new home and life together. Consultants will also help create a personal registry for each bride-to-be’s selection of fine and casual china, silverware, crystal, cookware, kitchen essentials, bedding, bath towels and more.

JoAnn Ladd, owner of The Bridal Nook in Hamlet, will be happy to assist brides-to-be at any stage of their wedding arrangements when they visit her table at Belk's.

"We can help with planning, whether it is a short period or long term," Ladd said. "We give them tips, coupons to save money on items when they come into our store, and we have a very nice door prize they can win by registering when they arrive. We are here to help brides in every aspect of their wedding until they walk down the aisle."

The bride and her guests will have access to Belk wedding registries at the store, as well as online at www.belk.com.

Participating vendors include Harley’s Tuxedo, Cynthia’s Cakes, Purcell Limo Service, The Bridal Nook, Clinique, Travel Time, Personalized Creations and Party Spirit. Music will be provided by Stuart Carmichael.

Bridal associates at the event include Patricia Bryant, Karen Chavis, Donna Gibson, and Wendy Taylor.

For more information, contact Belk's at 276-2431.