Things to do, places to eat, shows to see, places to stay in Madison County, NY      

_ The single most important decision made by a bride and groom in regards to their wedding day is the location.  Without a location, it is difficult to make any of the other decisions they need to make.  Madison County Tourism today announced a great way to help brides and grooms make that decision with its inaugural bridal bus tour. 

_On Sunday April 29, 2012 Madison County Tourism will treat engaged couples to a day of fun, as they travel to eight unique wedding venues across Madison County in luxury limo transportation.  The day will allow the happy couples to compare and contrast the locations and help them choose the perfect location to hold their ceremony or reception.

The tour will start in two locations, Oneida and Cazenovia, and the limos will spread out across the county to show off the historic, picturesque venues that make Madison County weddings so special.  Engaged couples will have the chance to visit the Oneida Community Mansion House, the Greystone Castle, Brae Loch Inn, Lincklaen House, Colgate Inn, Hamilton Inn and White Eagle Conference Center among others.  Catering and banquet staffs will be on hand at every location to talk about set ups, food, music and pricing.  Brides and grooms will also be able to meet with photographers, florists, disc jockeys, cake bakers, favor makers and other essential vendors.

Weddings are an important part of the marketing strategy for tourism in Madison County.  Each year they partner on a bridal guide and attend wedding shows.  They also have a dedicated wedding micro-site to help promote wedding venues and vendors.

Madison County Tourism executive director Jim Walter says weddings are big business.  “When someone chooses our venues for their reception there is a compounding effect on local businesses.  They may also set up a rehearsal dinner; hire a florist, photographer and disc jockey that are local.  It extends beyond the reception site, families, and the wedding party and guests all book hotel rooms.  While they are in town they visit local shops, restaurants and attractions.  The more weddings we can book in Madison County, the stronger our economy will be.”

One of the most heard comments from brides at wedding shows was that they’d love to check out Madison County locations like the Mansion House or Colgate Inn, but they just didn’t know when they’d find the time.  This tour aims to remove that barrier.  Eight venues in one day, a fun tour of the county in a limo or limo bus and access to a wide variety of vendors will make this time well spent for brides and grooms.

Tickets for the tour are limited to the first 50 couples and can be purchased online at www.madisontourism.com/weddings.  Interested couples or vendors can also call 800-684-7320 for more information.