EXPERT help was at hand this weekend for brides-to-be planning their big day.

The Evening Press Spring Wedding Fair aimed to make the often stressful job of tying the knot that bit easier.

The event - held yesterday at the Royal York Hotel - proved a winner, with people queuing to view two stunning fashion shows and stalls displaying photographs, cakes and dresses.

Sam Grogan, events co-ordinator at the Evening Press, said: "It went really well. We were very busy all day and from the time we opened the doors we had a nice big queue. We had about 300 people before the first fashion show. That was absolutely packed."

Other highlights included soothing live music and a chocolate fountain display, which proved popular with hungry wedding shoppers.

A wide range of specialist suppliers and businesses were also on hand to cover every aspect of wedding planning - from stationery and transport to venues, dresses and bridal beauty.

The ever-popular fair was sponsored by Elizabeth of York.

Updated: 10:07 Monday, February 14, 2005