The Second Annual Bridal Expo took place on Sunday, with more than 50 prizes given out, free taste-testing and a professional fashion show.

Fifty prizes were given out to the public from various companies. The prizes consisted of free meals from various sponsoring restaurants. A free one-night stay at the Country Inn and Suites hotel was also offered.

“The event is to get people together,” said DJ Mike Slopeck. “It’s also to help couples, that are soon to be married, find the services such as catering and music.”

The theme was “Blue Hawaii,” according to NIU Today.

The professional fashion show began at 2 p.m. Models from the companies Ducky’s Formal Wear and Bella Bridal and Formal Wear appeared in various dresses and tuxedos that connected to the “Blue Hawaii” theme.

“I normally host about 30 or more weddings a year,” said Bob Fleischmann, founder of Reflex DJ service. “I’ve been doing this for almost 20 years.”

Companies like Hy-Vee, Country Inn & Suites, and Kyler Photography set up stations around the ballroom to promote their services to the public.

“The Bridal Expo gives couples who are engaged a chance to check out different services that they will need for their own wedding,” said Stacy Thomas, a customer service representative from Ducky’s Formal Wear, 112 E. Lincoln Highway.

New businesses, like Simple Sweet, were also at the expo trying to promote their catering services for weddings.

“We have been in the business for almost a year,” said Simple Sweets manager Katie White. “So far we’ve catered for one wedding.”