Augusta's new convention hall is hosting its first public event.

A bridal expo Sunday was the debut show at the Augusta Convention Center, which hasn't even officially opened yet.

The convention hall will celebrate its official grand opening next week on Thursday with a business expo sponsored by the local Chamber of Commerce.

The convention center's opening ran into controversy recently when Georgia police chiefs who had booked a January meeting backed out because city officials were unable to approve operating agreements for the center with the company that manages the adjoining Marriott hotel.

Greg DeSandy, sales and marketing director for the convention hotel, says 20 events are confirmed for the new space.

Tags: Augusta, tee center, augusta trade exhibit and event center, augusta chamber of commerce