Make the most of the networking opportunities The Harrogate Bridal Show has to offer with this definitive guide.
The Harrogate Bridal Show offers fantastic opportunities to network with some of the leading British and international bridal brands.
This year’s event will feature several chances for both suppliers and retailers to come together and network at the champagne and gin bars, annual parties and after-hour events.
Read More: Five Reasons to Visit The Harrogate Bridal Show 2019
The Champagne and Gin bars at The Harrogate Bridal Show offer great opportunities to create new industry relationships and develop existing ones in a relaxed and friendly environment.
The Gin Bar is sponsored by Peter Posh and is located in Hall B between stalls B28 and B29. The bar will serve Gin and Tonic free of charge between 12pm-2pm every day, with various gins available to purchase outside these hours.
The Champagne Bar is located in Hall Q next to the VIP lounge and will serve free tea, coffee and Danish pastries all day between 10am and 11.30am. Free fizz will also be available between 2.30pm-3.30pm each day.
The fashions shows at The Harrogate Bridal Show are great for seeing the latest bridal trends come to life on the catwalk. However, they also offer an exceptional chance for you to network. The final catwalk of each day will host a champagne reception in the Royal Hall, allowing retailers and suppliers to socialise with a glass of bubbly.
Bridal brands such as Dando London, Ladybird, Allure Bridals and Rachel Allen will all be taking to the catwalk at The Harrogate Bridal Show so make sure you set some time aside to come along.
The Bridal Preview |
The Designer Preview |
Sunday 8th September: 14:30 & 18:30* |
Sunday 8th September: 16:30 |
Monday 9th September: 12:30 & 16:30 |
Monday 9th September: 14:30 & 18:00* |
*Drinks reception prior |
*Drinks reception prior |
Read More: The Harrogate Bridal Show: What to Expect On The Catwalk
Alternately, with the beautiful spa town on your doorstep, you can always head into Harrogate town centre. With an array of local bars and restaurants, there are plenty of places to go for an important meeting or casual catch-up. Our top recommendation is the famous Betty’s Tea Rooms, where you can re-energise with some afternoon tea before heading back into the show for round two.
The annual party organised by the British Bridal Suppliers Association offers a more informal environment for both suppliers and retailers to network. The annual party takes place on the Sunday night of The Harrogate Bridal Show and is a fantastic way to unwind after your day at the trade show.
Event Manager, Georgia Pick, who has worked on Harrogate for many years, explains why the BBSA Sunday night party is one of her favourite places to catch up with industry friends:
“The BBSA party is an enjoyable, casual evening with a disco. It’s a great chance to catch up with retailers and exhibitors in a much more relaxed environment and have a great time.”
The evening will start with a drinks reception at the stunning Royal Pump Rooms, Crown Place, Harrogate (Next to Crown Hotel) with a chance to view the exhibition of vintage wedding dresses with a glass of fizz. Then a “hop, skip & a jump” to the historic & vibrant Hales Bar for an evening of fun, drinking, socialising, music and relaxed service of traditional fish & chips throughout the evening. Tickets can be purchased here at £20 per person.
The annual Bridal Buyer Awards is another great place to network during The Harrogate Bridal Show. With over 600 industry professionals all under one roof, the event offers a unique chance to socialise with the best in the bridal industry.
With an evening of recognition and celebration there are plenty of opportunities to catch-up with industry friends over a glass of champagne. Don’t worry if you haven’t been nominated for an award, the evening is open to everyone as long as you book your tickets here before the event.
Read More: The Bridal Buyer Awards 2029 Finalists Announced
The Harrogate Bridal Show 2019 will take place during 8th – 10th September. Make sure you register for the event here so you don’t miss out.