was a repetition in dress styles and increased costs, unreflective of quality. An obvious change in industry trends was also apparent through the downsizing of accessories and add ons offered by designers, questioning the impact of fast fashion and the increase of online shopping within this part of the bridal industry. The catwalk show is one of the highlights of the event, with the Royal Hall boasting a theatrical setting for a host of world-renowned brands. It was amazing to witness a full theatre again and the atmosphere was incredible. The standout moment came with Rachel Allan’s Swan Lake excerpt. In terms of individual designer catwalk shows, Maggie Sottero paved the way with their inclusivity and diversity of models, something of which we hope to see more of in the future from other designers. We also saw Maggie Sottero celebrate their 25th anniversary with an exclusive stockists’ event held on the Sunday evening, championing their The RBA prosecco meet-&-greet own successes, and showing their reception was very well attended on both evenings before the show closed, appreciation to each of their retailers. The 2022 Bridal Buyer Awards and it was wonderful to catch up with our existing members and meet those was hosted in the Majestic hotel. Downsized from the previous looking to find out more about what year, there was an apparent the RBA has to offer. Welcome to our underestimation of appetite for the new members, we look forward to event, with the venue unable to house some exciting developments for the all who wanted to attend. The blackAssociation in 2023. The show hosted over 300 big name tie evening boasted a supportive upbeat atmosphere, which committee brands and there was a very strong members enjoyed. The RBA would representation of new designers like to congratulate again all award from Ukraine and Eastern Europe, winners from the evening on their with unique takes and inspiration well-deserved recognition. for the modern-day bride. RBA To summarise, the RBA found this members were offered stockist year’s Bridal Week a successful and flexibility with design changes and fabric choices along with great prices, an enjoyable experience and we look forward to the new innovations and and opportunity for increased profit progressions 2023 holds in store for margins. New labels apart, however, the designers and forthcoming events. our members felt elsewhere there
RBA news Melanie Storer, RBA executive committee member and co-owner of Wedding Belles of Four Oaks, reviews Bridal Week Harrogate
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he industry returned to the #homeofbridal on 11 September, for Bridal Week, which saw the bridal community regaining its stride in the post pandemic era, with a buzz of designer and retailer conversations filling the stands. The shift in energy was especially seen through the growing interest and applications for RBA membership, highlighting the importance of peer-to-peer support and unity that has emerged from the trials of previous years. Ocean Media ensured there were opportunities to engage with fellow friends throughout the show by providing complimentary Champagne and gin bars while RBA members experienced a VIP exclusive oasis, with a lunch of sandwiches and cakes, hot beverages and wine.
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