Basically, the viewers of reality tv are the supporters. Financially, because we highten the amount of viewers, and socially because we want to be entertained. The 'characters' on the shows know that we, as viewers, are waiting for the next craziest thing to happen, so they try to be as dramatic and out of control as possible. Basically, we fuel the fire.
I watched Say Yes to the Dress this weekend, a show based from New York City's most famous bridal boutique, Klienfeld's. Brides-to-be and any number of her friends and family come to the store to find the 'perfect' wedding gown. During this episode, the bride that stood out most was a model and pageant girl. After modeling several different types of clothing, including wedding gowns, and constantly wearing pageat gowns, she couldn't find a wedding dress that made her feel like a bride rather than a contestant. After tears and hugs and breakdowns, she left the boutique empty-handed. The characters in this episode were the bride-to-be, her mother, her 'fashion-forward' uncle (who was paying for the gown), her stylist, and her wedding coordinator. This was a different kind of episode because rather than bringing just an intimate group of family, she included business partners as if it was a business deal.
Anyhow, I actually didn't like this episode because the bride annoyed me so much, but typically this is one of my favorite shows. Every girl dreams at some point of finding her wedding gown. Watching the process over and over with the most gorgeous dresses New York has to offer is exciting for people, and I think that's what is alluring about this show. I think as viewers we help the show to keep running, bringing more and more brides to Klienfeld's. I think the most influence we have in this show is keeping Klienfeld's on tv. From a marketing standpoint, we are the base of their advertising.
