Tell us a bit about The National Wedding Show and how it’s evolved over the years.

The National Wedding Show has been a pillar of the UK bridal landscape for over 30 years. What began as a single-location exhibition has grown into a multi-show, multi-city event hosted twice a year in London, Birmingham and now Manchester. Over the years, TNWS has evolved from a straightforward supplier showcase into a highly curated, immersive wedding planning experience. The show is designed to connect thousands of engaged couples with top-tier brands across fashion, beauty, venues and planning. Each year, the show reflects the changing tastes and expectations of modern couples, keeping it at the forefront of the UK wedding scene.

What makes The National Wedding Show special?

Our biggest strength lies in our dual-purpose design: TNWS delivers a seamless experience for both the bridal consumer and the industry suppliers. For brides and grooms, it’s an inspiring and practical planning destination. For brands, it’s a powerful lead-generating platform with unmatched footfall and high-quality engagement. Key USPs include our spectacular catwalk shows, expert-led workshops and interactive zones that offer more than a browse-and-buy format, they provide a full-on planning journey. Our brand reputation, longevity and loyal visitor base mean we’re not just a wedding show; we’re a trusted name in bridal.

Do you have any standout features at this year’s events?

The National Wedding Show has always been the ultimate destination for brides-to-be and this year’s line-up of features promises to take the experience to new heights. At the heart of the event is the Catwalk, always a show-stopping highlight and proudly sponsored this season by Carvela. Expect a dazzling showcase of the latest bridal collections, bridesmaid looks, groomswear and accessories, styled to perfection and giving visitors a front-row view of the trends shaping weddings in 2026 and beyond. Beauty lovers are in for a treat too, as Charlotte Tilbury joins as the official beauty sponsor. With its world-renowned artistry and cult-favourite products, Charlotte Tilbury will bring bridal beauty to the runway, offering inspiration for glowing, modern makeup looks that brides can confidently recreate on their big day. And for a touch of pre-wedding indulgence, visitors can enjoy a complimentary pamper courtesy of Townhouse, the luxury nail brand. Their team of experts will be offering free manicures throughout the weekend, giving brides and their bridal party a chance to unwind and enjoy a little glamour while exploring the show. With these exciting collaborations, The National Wedding Show continues to deliver not only as a planning destination but also as an experience in its own right - celebrating beauty, fashion and style under one roof.

What trends are you seeing from brides right now? What is the modern bride looking for?

The modern bride is seeking a gown that balances style, individuality and substance. Minimalist silhouettes in luxe fabrics remain popular but with a twist, such as bold sleeves, sculptural bows, or asymmetric cuts that add personality. Convertible designs are also on the rise, with detachable elements allowing brides to adapt their look throughout the day. Sustainability is another key driver, with brides looking for ethically made, rewearable pieces or vintage-inspired options with a story. We’re also seeing a softening of the traditional white palette - blush, champagne and even pale blue are making subtle appearances, often paired with delicate embellishments or 3D floral details.

Any plans on the horizon for The National Wedding Show, and what are you hoping for the future of the shows?

We’re always looking ahead. Our vision is to expand the TNWS brand beyond the event days themselves through year-round networking events for suppliers and a community for our brides to connect, share ideas and support one another. We’re also aiming to spotlight new talent in the bridal industry and champion diverse, inclusive voices. Our hope is to remain a trusted, inspiring resource for both couples and businesses as the wedding landscape continues to evolve.

How can brides get their tickets?

Tickets can be purchased online at www.nationalweddingshow.co.uk. We offer a range of options, including standard, group and VIP tickets, with VIP offering perks like reserved seating at the catwalk, complimentary bubbly, access to the exclusive VIP area and a luxury goody bag. The website also features show previews, exhibitor listings and practical planning content to help brides get the most from their visit.