Woodlawn's Rec & Event Center hosts a wedding expo Sunday, Oct. 4, featuring a chef tasting, bridal runway show and free dresses for teens.
The "Falling in Love Wedding Expo 2026," themed "Sheer Elegance," runs from 1 to 4 p.m. at 10050 Woodlawn Blvd., according to the village's parks and recreation department. The expo brings together local wedding and event vendors with programming that ranges from food to fashion to philanthropy.
Chef Josephine Williams, owner of the woman-owned catering company Black Samurai, will lead a private tasting experience. Black Samurai operates as a food truck and catering company specializing in Asian soul food fusion. Seats for the tasting cost $20, reservations are required, and seating is limited.
The Sheer Elegance Runway Review will feature gowns from four boutiques: Uniquely Bold, Legacy Boutique, Goodwill Ohio Valley and Cinderella's Closet.
A display called "Hats off to Jessie" will showcase hats from the estate of Jessie Shropshire, whom the event listing describes as a socialite and philanthropist. Members of the ZONE 15 First Ladies, a group tied to the Lincoln Heights and Woodlawn community, will model the collection.
Teens can pick up free dresses at the Teen Boutique, with options for all occasions available while supplies last. Donors include Goodwill, CBTC and ROMAC. Donations are still being accepted, according to the event listing.
Photo opportunities will be available at the Mill Creek Bridge and the venue's gazebo.
The expo is free to attend. The chef tasting is the only ticketed portion. Residents can call the Woodlawn Recreation Department at 513-771-7713 for details or to reserve a tasting seat.
Coming up in the corridor
- Sunday, Oct. 4: Falling in Love Wedding Expo, 1–4 p.m., Woodlawn Rec & Event Center, 10050 Woodlawn Blvd. Chef tasting reservations: 513-771-7713.
