The stage is almost set for the biggest wedding event in East Anglia this year.

This weekend about 3,000 people are expected to attend the EDP Wedding Show at the Norfolk Showground, with people travelling from across the region in search of innovative ideas to make their big day extra special.

The EDP Wedding Shows have, over the years, developed a well-known reputation for bringing together the best of the Norfolk wedding industry under one roof.

Starting with a 50-stand show at Dunston Hall in 2007, the EDP now runs four annual wedding shows, with the biggest one for 2012 being the two-day event at the Norfolk Showground this weekend.

Whether you are looking for the most romantic of venues, the most divine dress, or the most tempting cake, one of the 140 exhibitors is sure to have the answer.

Diana Sims, who leads the EDP Wedding Show team along with Steve Maddams, said: 'The EDP Wedding Show has something for every couple planning their wedding, whether you are on a budget or have unlimited funds, and whether you are four years away from your wedding or just looking for the final things for your special day.'

A show of this scale is no small undertaking, and for the past week the EDP Wedding Show team has been preparing the venue for what is the 15th EDP Wedding Show – and the third at the Norfolk Showground.

Mr Maddams said: 'The build-up started on Saturday with a 90 metre carpet being laid – that took the whole weekend.

'Then on Monday the entrance marquee and the backstage marquee for the models and hair and make-up was put in place, and on Tuesday the catering area was constructed.'

He explained the catering area would be run by Norfolk restaurant Brasted's.

'Brasted's is going to have a cafe and restaurant at the show. People will be able to eat everything from soup and sandwiches to sea bass, and drink everything from a cup of tea to a glass of champagne.

'We want people to really enjoy themselves at the show, and come for a whole day out.

'They can enjoy wandering around the exhibitors' stand and then relax with a meal or some refreshments.'

Wednesday and yesterday saw the building of the fashion show catwalk area, including the installation of the sound system and lighting.

'All the exhibitors' cars and vehicles being displayed also arrived yesterday, including two stage coaches from Banham Zoo,' said Mr Maddams.

'Then all of the 140 stands had to be built around them ready for today when the exhibitors arrive to arrange their displays.'

Also today, the models from The Team At Catwalkers will be doing the final rehearsals of their 30-minute fashion shows which they will perform four times on each of the two show days.

'It is a massive sense of achievement seeing everything come together,' Mr Maddams said. 'By about 8pm tonight everything should be ready for the show to begin at 10am tomorrow.'

The EDP Wedding Show is at the Norfolk Showground tomorrow from 10am to 5pm and on Sunday from 10am to 4pm. Tickets cost �6 per person, �10 for two people, or �16 for four people. Parking is free. Visitors who fill out a questionnaire about the show will also have the chance to win �250 to spend with any of the exhibitors.

To see a full list of the exhibitors or more information go to www.edp24.co.uk/weddings or call 01603 772175.

emma.knights@archant.co.uk