Fewer brides in the Akron area doesn't always mean less spending.

Jim Frericks is the co-owner, with his wife, and chief marketing manager of Today's Bride Magazine and Shows in Akron-Canton and Cleveland. Fresh off his return from the Wedding MBA Conference in Las Vegas, Frericks said that despite the sluggish economy, brides are turning to professionals more than ever for help in planning their big day.

"Brides have realized that they can't do everything themselves and they are hiring professionals, wedding consultants," he said. "Weddings here in the Akron-Canton market range anywhere from $15,000, up to $35,000, and that's a percentage."

He said some weddings in the region can also make it into the $50,000 to $100,000 and more range. Frericks doesn't endorse destination weddings, because he said it takes money out of the local economy.

While brides are still spending, Frericks said the number of brides in the region has shrinked.

"The big thing that's really hurt the Akron-Canton, and even Cleveland market, is the exit of young professionals," Frericks said. "Weddings, marriage licenses are down. The economy needs to change to keep the young kids here, and want to stay here in Northeast Ohio."

From invitations to creating a simple play-list for wedding reception music, Frericks said the trends toward do-it-yourself products don't always produce results. He suggests brides hire professional DJs and photographers to ensure quality for their dollars spent.

Keeping the crowd entertained is a must Frericks said, so that's why he said photo booths are surfacing at receptions. Another way to decorate the after party on a dime is by adding lighting.

"Lighting is the biggest thing going on in weddings right now; up-lighting, mood-lighting, spotlighting and it's all being done really affordable. You can change the entire look of a room just by changing the color," he said.

Today's Bride is hosting a bridal show from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sun., Oct. 23, at the Sheraton Suites in Cuyahoga Falls. Click here to find out which vendors from the region plan to attend. 

On the Web: www.todaysbrideonline.com