First look at Bridal Week Harrogate 2023
Bridal Week Harrogate took place at Harrogate Convention Centre from 10 - 12 September for three days of business, fashion, and education: here’s an exclusive first look.
The curtains have closed on the most anticipated event of the Autumn season: Bridal Week Harrogate. Wrapping up another successful show, it has reaffirmed its place as the most-established and most-loved event in the bridal calendar. This year was a particularly special one: retailers and suppliers gathered from across the globe to celebrate 40 years of Bridal Week Harrogate, coming together to mark the innovations in bridal fashion, discover upcoming trends for next year and gain insight into the market.
With inspirational fashion shows, informative seminars and personalised advice hosted by our leading industry experts, visitors to Bridal Week Harrogate got to experience the full trade show experience.
Big Brands
Retailers were treated to new collections from an array of over 300 bridal wear, accessory, and occasion wear brands from around the world. Complimenting their stunning collection designs with splashes of colour, exhibitors wowed the crowd through their stand displays. Retailers were truly spoiled for choice with the sheer number of offerings: a mixture of trendy and traditional pieces from world-renowned names to those looking to make big waves in the industry.
Fashion Shows
Once again, the runway came alive with a dazzling display of bridal fashion. Set against the grand backdrop of the Royal Hall, the Fashion Shows are a favourite of many. The Bridal Week Harrogate preview shows were a hit with retailers, providing a great insight into the trends ready to sweep the industry as nineteen top brands hit the catwalk to show off their latest creations: Dando London, Madi Lane, Evie Young, Jeune Bridal, Ellis Bridals, Kelsey Rose, Lore, Rachel Allan Prom, Fox Bridal, Moonlight Bridal, Rachel Allan Bridal, Sophia Tolli, Simply Divine, Jessica Couture, Sasha Loochi, Shane Moore, White Studio London, Diane Legrand and Romantica.
Bridal Week Harrogate would like to extend their thanks to Belle Bridal Magazine for sponsoring the catwalks, along with the catwalk providers: The Perfect Bridal Company, Jupon Petticoats, Poirier Bridal Accessories, Propress, Freedom Bridal and MG Hair and Makeup.
Bridal Retail Success Academy
Across the Sunday and Monday, the Bridal Retail Success Academy provided retailers with the perfect opportunity to take their business to the next level. This educational offering allowed visitors to gain one-to-one personalised advice to discuss all things bridal from marketing to financial planning, social media to sales. Thank you to Abi Neill, Diana McMann, Christine Skilton, Jo Stott, Julia Smith, Maria Musgrove-Wethey and Megan Garmers for sharing their in-depth knowledge and experience with visitors.
Bridal Week Harrogate was also delighted to be joined by the wonderful Wendy Rivera and the Do You Speak Bride team, for three days of insight and information. The Royal Hall also played host to Wendy’s highly-anticipated seminar on Monday morning, which was a big hit with boutique owners.
Networking Opportunities
Bridal Week Harrogate provided invaluable networking opportunities, fostering connections amongst like-minded bridal professionals. The Gin Bar, Bubbles Bar and Platinum Buyer Lounge (sponsored by Bustle & Bertie) provided complimentary refreshments to visitors, and the 40th Anniversary ’Feels Like Home’ wall allowed retailers to connect over shared Harrogate memories and indulge in a sweet treat as they wandered the halls.
Missing it already?
Don’t worry! Bridal Week Harrogate will be delivering lots of exclusive show content over the coming weeks, and are so excited to give you a further glimpse into the #HOMEOFBRIDAL. Make sure you to keep an eye out for our upcoming articles, and stay tuned for more beautiful bridal content at @bridalbuyermagazine and @bridalweekofficial.
We’ll also be returning to Harrogate (24 - 26 March 2024) for the next edition of Bridal Week - see you there!
