When it comes to wedding planning, many brides don’t know where to start. For many, there’s an added pressure to support vendors whose values align with the Catholic faith.
Catholic wedding planner Marielena Dias Edscorn wants to do just that. Last year, with florist Mel Cameron from Mystical Rose Flowers, Edscorn created the Cana Wedding Expo. Its goal: “to connect Catholic couples with Catholic-owned businesses who understand the sacred nature of the wedding day,” according to Edscorn.
Last year, the event drew 19 different vendors, and this year, Edscorn expects more. “We anticipate a wide variety of vendors supporting couples through every stage of wedding planning, including coordinators, florists, photographers, DJs and a Catholic-owned printing company,” she said. “This year’s venue is Catholic-owned, which was a very intentional choice. We are also planning to include several unique offerings, such as a live wedding painter and a swing band.”
The expo will take place at The Old Springhouse at Reitano Vineyards in Front Royal. Throughout the afternoon, brides can peruse the vendor tables and enter giveaways. “Last year’s prizes included high-value offerings such as complimentary engagement photography, multiple wedding planning sessions, floral service credits, services toward baked goods from a Catholic baker, and significant discounts on wedding printing materials,” Edscorn said. “These giveaways are intended both to bless engaged couples and to showcase the generosity of our Catholic vendor community.” For brides still looking for “the” dress, St. Anthony’s Bridal in Fairfax will put on a bridal fashion show at the expo.
As owner of Blue Veil Events LLC, Edscorn believes that “a wedding reception is the first event a couple hosts together with the graces of marriage, and we believe it should reflect that sacred reality.” When it comes to selecting vendors, “hiring Catholic vendors allows couples to be surrounded by professionals who revere the sacrament, pray for their clients and uphold shared values,” she added. She gave the example of her business partner Cameron, who prays for each couple as she constructs the bride’s unique wedding bouquet.
Proceeds from the expo will benefit the Catholic Campus Ministry at the University of Virginia, with special support for Catholic medical students. Tickets purchased in advance are $20 each, and each ticket accommodates up to 3 people. Tickets may also be purchased at the door for $30 each.
The organizers are still inviting wedding vendors and sponsors to register and are searching for a priest to celebrate a noon Mass to kickstart the event.
Find out more
To register, go to blueveilevents.com/cana-wedding-expo-2026.
Questions may be emailed to [email protected].
