For over 40 years, Bridal Week Harrogate has been the go-to destination for retailers to connect and for a plethora of passionate designers and suppliers to showcase their latest collections all under one roof.
This year’s Bridal Week Harrogate saw boutique owners from across the country gather together – not only to source their offerings for the seasons ahead, but to discover standout trends, seek inspiration from the industry’s most renowned professionals and, most importantly, to relish in the opportunity of being surrounded by like-minded business owners.
“We are thrilled with the success of Bridal Week Harrogate March 2024,” comments Event Director, Wendy Adams. “This year’s event exceeded our expectations, bringing together the best and brightest talents in the bridal industry for an unforgettable showcase of creativity and innovation.”
Standout Collections
This year’s versatile array of talent meant that there was something for every boutique. Undoubtedly, each collection showcased their label’s individuality, plus there were a number of standout elements that positioned Bridal Week as the place to set trends that will soar this season. This year, the spotlight shone on the maximalism trend, where more is more! Minimalistic satin and simplistic shapes were replaced with embellished lace and dramatic silhouettes, indicating that many designers are amping up the drama within their newest collections. Sheer corseted bodices and glamorous drop waists certainly had their moment, making repeat appearances throughout the stands. In response for the demand for drama, brands such as Casablanca, Josephine Scott and Dando London didn’t hold back: incorporating pearls, huge bows and all things sparkly to create truly showstopping looks. Justin Alexander took to the Majestic’s Ballroom to exclusively present their latest Fall/Winter 2024 & Spring/Summer 2025 collections, with over 250 visitors and only standing room left at their runway shows!
Christine Dando noted: “The show has been amazing. The high quality of buyers came with a direct purchasing purpose, and for them to be able to see everything under one roof and meet all of the industry champions, there is no question about it: Bridal Week Harrogate is the place to be.”
Bridal Retail Success Academy
The inspiration didn’t come solely from the collections: The Bridal Retail Success Academy made its return to Harrogate last weekend, and this year’s programme provided business owners with insightful seminar sessions and tailored Business Advice Clinics, designed to support them in navigating the ever-evolving world of bridal. Hosted by a seasoned panel of experts including Megan Garmers, Stacy Hughes, Diana McMann, Maria Musgrove-Wethey, Abi Neill, Ella O’Keefe and Julia Smith, retailers were provided with the perfect opportunity to learn from the industry’s shining stars. The dynamic seminar series covered a diverse array of topics, from the most innovative marketing techniques to establishing strong connections with customers. It’s safe to say that attendees left feeling empowered, enlightened and equipped with industry tips and tricks!
The Bridal Buyer Awards
Of course, we can’t forget the event that everyone had been waiting for: The Bridal Buyer Awards! On the evening of Monday 25th March, the highly anticipated ceremony took place, celebrating incredible bridal industry talents across the board, with the most awards given out on record! The entire bridal community came together to applaud each other’s successes, and enjoyed a spectacular night of drinking, dancing and delicious food in between. You can view all of the 2024 winners here.
Our next event:
Can’t wait for the next big bridal buying event? Great news: White Gallery is just around the corner! Taking place at The Truman Brewery in London from the 8th-9th May, the hottest new designers will join industry icons in presenting their new collections to the world’s coolest bridal boutiques at this truly unmissable buying event. Claim your free ticket here to secure your spot and meet the very best UK and International bridal talent.