In conversation with Alex Butler, Event Director of Bridal Week, on creating an event defined by energy, experience and industry connection.
When Bridal Week returns to London this season, it does so with a bold new vision - and a brand-new home. For first-time attendees stepping into the Truman Brewery in Shoreditch, the organisers hope the reaction is immediate and unmistakable. This season marks a decisive shift for Bridal Week, with the move to the Truman Brewery in Shoreditch signalling a new era for the long-standing show. Intentionally unlike any previous venue, the space brings a raw warehouse aesthetic, strong ties to London Fashion Week and an unmistakably creative energy.
“The Truman Brewery is so different to anywhere we’ve hosted Bridal Week before,” Alex explains. “Its fashion credentials, combined with its Shoreditch location, really reflect the change in direction we’re taking.”
While Bridal Week was once centred on being a straightforward “matchmaking” event (bringing buyers and suppliers together under one roof), Alex acknowledges that the needs of the modern bridal buyer have evolved.
“Expectations have shifted significantly in recent years. Now, we’re focused on creating an immersive experience that truly represents today’s bridal industry. Inspiration and innovation are absolutely key, and we want buyers to feel that from the moment they walk in.”
This season’s exhibitor list reflects that ambition. Bridal Week has secured an impressive roster of internationally recognised brands, reinforcing its position as one of the industry’s most important buying events.
The extensive list is yet to be fully announced, but confirmed names already include Maggie Sottero, Justin Alexander, Allure Bridals, Essense of Australia, Morilee, Veni Infantino, Ellis and Kelsey Rose, Casablanca, Rachel Allan, Paloma Blanca, Calla Blanche, The Perfect Bridal Company and Jesus Peiro - among many others. “It was incredibly important for us to secure as many of the big brands as possible,” Alex continues. “And we think we’ve done a fantastic job.”
Alongside these global powerhouses, Bridal Week continues to champion emerging designers and independent ateliers.
Inclusivity across the entire bridal landscape remains a core value for Bridal Week. “We want Bridal Week to represent everyone in our community,” Alex explains, “from international brands to independent creatives.”
Many brands, including Armenian brand Moment of White and Irish-made The Next Chapter Bridal will both make their debut in The Designer Edit, firmly placing them on the industry radar.
With more than 40 years of heritage, Bridal Week enjoys remarkable loyalty from exhibitors - something the team sees as both a privilege and a responsibility. “Our legacy is incredibly important to us. We’ve built trust from both brands and buyers over the course of decades,” Alex notes. “But nothing can stand still. Bridal Week has to evolve alongside the industry and the modern consumer.” 2026 marks a transformative point for Bridal Week. We want to use our years of knowledge and experience, and create exceptional events that connect designers and retailers, and inspire and empower the entire bridal community.
Bridal Week’s appeal extends far beyond bridal gowns alone. From accessories and services to prom and occasionwear, the show reflects the full breadth of the industry - and that holistic approach is intentional. Alex continues, “we know time away from home and work is precious, and so we aim to offer the widest cross-section of the very best products and services in one place.” This allows retailers to complete their buying efficiently, comparing collections side by side and making informed decisions - all under one roof.
By relaunching Bridal Week London in March, the team are ensuring the show has the greatest geographical reach across the UK. Harrogate will host Bridal Week in September, appealing to those who love the heritage of the beautiful Northern spa town, whilst the Truman Brewery, with its great transport links with multiple train stations and airports in close proximity, will inevitably attract more southern and international buyers.
This new London edition places just as much emphasis on atmosphere as it does on business. The experiential feel of the show is central to its reinvention, with immersive elements designed to spark creativity and excitement throughout the event.
"We want to inspire buyers with ideas they can bring back to their own businesses. We’re pushing the boundaries across our campaign, with new initiatives being implemented across social, email and onsite, there is so much to look forward to!" Alex continues. If asked to sum up the season in just three words, the answer is clear: fresh, contemporary and daring.
And yes - the rumours are true. Bridal Week is celebrating its return to London with a Sunday night party.
“It only feels right to mark the occasion with a proper knees-up,” Alex laughs. “The bridal industry loves a good party, and an evening of celebration is needed to bring the industry together beyond the buying floor.”
Plans are already underway, with DJs being booked, cocktails selected, canapés tested and florals chosen - all guided by a carefully curated mood board. Plus, there’s even more to come, with details of an immersive contemporary catwalk show set to be revealed soon.
For now, one thing is clear: Bridal Week isn’t just back - it’s been completely reinvented.