Engaged couples may want to pencil in Thursday evening on their calendars.
That's when Cruiseport Gloucester will be hosting its 2010 Bridal Expo.
On hand will be a variety of vendors who offer wedding services, a show of wedding wear from Lorraine Roy Designer Collections and Bridal Boutique and Giblees Tuxedo, and samplings from Vinwood Caterers.
The expo, organized by Cruiseport's Sheree DeLorenzo, runs from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Admission is $10.
"We've invited all our brides, plus anyone planning their perfect wedding," said Dana Matthews, Cruiseport's assistant functions manager.
Matthews said the event will open with a hour-long meet-and-greet downstairs at Cruiseport. Among the 25 vendors on hand will be a disc jockey, lighting technician, florists, videographer, a harpist, a limo company representatives, and photographers — "a whole range of people to help would-be brides plan the event of their lives," Matthews said.
Then attendees can move upstairs to the Cruiseport ballroom, which Matthews said will be set up as if for a wedding, with tablescapes featuring Cruiseport's place settings as well as possible upgrades, and its bar will be set up. They will also be treated to a fashion show featuring bridal gowns from Lorraine Roy and tuxedoes from Giblees Tuxedo, both of Danvers.
While meeting the vendors and checking out the dishes and linens later, participants will be able to sample hors d'ouevres and meals by Vinwood Caterers of Ipswich.
"They've been the premier caterer on the North Shore for the 30-plus years, and they never do food tastings ... but we somehow talked them into doing sampling stations," Matthews said, adding that Vinwood became Cruiseport's exclusive caterer this season.
While reservations aren't required, Cruiseport is looking to get on estimate on how many people will be coming to expo so the caterer will be prepared.
Attendees are asked to RSVP by Thursday by contacting Tammi Rodolosi at 978-282-9700 or e-mailing at trodolosi@cruiseportgloucester.com.
Andrea Holbrook may be contacted at 978-283-7000 x3456 or aholbrook@gloucestertimes.com.



