Wedding planners from throughout the world swooned at the sight of dramatic floral, embellished linen and elegant tabletops at the annual Wedding Luncheon, one of today's highlights at The Special Event 2006. Sponsored by Special Events Magazine, PROMO and CMI, all published by Prism Business Media, The Special Event runs Jan. 10-13 at the Dallas Convention Center.

Held at stately Arlington Hall at Lee Park in Dallas, the Wedding Lunch melded displays of the latest trends in bridal design along with a heart-warming display of the wedding gowns of the mothers of the event production team.

At yesterday's Opening General Session, keynote presenter Mike Rayburn (www.mikerayburn.com) urged attendees to ask "what if?" and "why not?" so they could break out of old modes of thinking.

Also at the session, Special Events editor Lisa Hurley announced the winners of the annual Tabletop Gallery competition. These are "Contrasting Elements" from Ducky-Bob's Party & Tent Rentals in the category "Tabletops Under $1,000 Each" and "Moroccan Nights" from Design Group in the category "Tabletops $1,000 and Above."

Ten outstanding tabletops are on display on the trade show floor, which also features more than 300 booths offering products and services including decor, tabletop items, furniture, linen, special effects and many more.

A slate of seminars for attendees covers topics in business development, design, foodservice, event management, rental, and sales and marketing.

The Special Event will culminate tomorrow in the Gala Awards and Celebration at the Adam's Mark Hotel. Look for the names of Gala winners in next week's edition of the "Eventline" e-newsletter.

For more information about The Special Event, visit www.thespecialeventshow.com or call 203/358-9900 or 800/559-0620.