News

Introducing Pen-Liv

Bridal Collective has introduced PEN·LIV, a new collection for brides looking for modern, couture gowns with a contemporary edge and youthful sexy vibe. As with all of the company’s collections, emphasis will be placed on craftsmanship, fit and affordability.

Named in tribute to the two daughters of Bridal Collective Founder and CEO Mary Nguyen, the brand serves as a loving legacy for them. PEN·LIV is thoughtfully crafted by Artistic Director Kang Chun Lin and a team of designers with over 20 years of experience in couture bridalwear.

Sweet, sexy and sophisticated, the debut collection is made up of 14 figure-flattering silhouettes and exquisite detailing.

See it at National Bridal Market, Chicago, 12-14 March, at European Bridal Week, Messe Essen, 1-3 April, and at Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week, Barcelona 21-23. For more information, visit www.penliv.com

THE ULTIMATE UNDIES

Few brides would say no to delicious lingerie – if not to wear under that dream dress then certainly under a favourite fashion item. Bionco Evento has a brilliant choice, as well as those essential petticoats designed for every gown silhouette. See the collection at www.bianco-evento.com along with bridalwear and accessories.

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

BrideCo is a Trade Association for Independent Bridal shop owners who understand the benefits of working together as a co-operative. The forum offers a platform for sharing views, advice and experiences, supporting others and helping to create and shape a positive, respected and valued bridal retailing community. BrideCo took part in research and steering groups with the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) for Test and Trace regulations, helping to develop guidance for Close Contact Businesses – the Shop with Confidence initiative – and helped individual bridal stores petition local government and MPs to be correctly recognised as CCB for Local Restriction Support Grants.

BrideCo has recently partnered with DivideBuy, an independent credit provider, offering its member stores the opportunity to provide their customers 0% Interest Free Finance, to help brides spread the cost of purchasing their dream wedding dress over 12 months.

Says founder Sue Lovell, “We understand that every business is different, and has individual requirements, and we are thrilled that DivideBuy has recognised the concept and professionalism of BrideCo.

“We are very excited at the response from members, and it’s great to see the Finance now being promoted in stores. We are working with DivideBuy to promote our participating stores nationwide throughout 2023, and we are looking forward to working together to bring our brides even more reasons to visit our stores.”

Each BrideCo member is vetted and checked for their professional credentials and has to agree to a Code of Conduct, which includes having a professional social media presence and social media accountability.

“At the heart of BrideCo is the understanding that we are all independent but we all want each other to succeed and thrive, as we know that sometimes it can be a lonely place running a business,” says Sue. “Regardless of the size or level of success of our individual stores, BrideCo is a positive place to be. We may not all have expansion plans, but we all want to continue to grow and strengthen our positions and give our customers the very best bridal experience. “BrideCo offer members an opportunity to network with other bridal shop owners, whether in person or online. From Spa Days to Training and Mentor Days, chatting on the forum or to individual members, we all understand that by sharing our experience, our knowledge and personal recommendations we can help build a strong and supportive community.”

One member, Rachel of Bourne Bridal in Bourne, had this to say: “For me, joining BrideCo is about knowing that there are other shops out there, who can offer nonjudgemental advice and support. It’s nice knowing you are not alone”.

If you would like to learn more about becoming a BrideCo Member, visit www.brideco.co.uk for full details of all the benefits of joining this positive and professional trade association, or email info@brideco.co.uk

Pure London partners with Export Angels to create ‘trading in the uk/europe report’

Pure London, the global fashion buying platform for womenswear, accessories, jewellery and footwear, 12- 14 February at Olympia, London, has partnered with Export Angels to provide international exhibitors with invaluable trading advice on showing and selling in the UK post-Brexit.

The report, written by Lesley Batchelor OBE, Co-Founder of ExportAngels.com, export champion, and an international trade expert with over 40 years’ experience of getting the goods to the right place at the right time, provides top tips for getting goods to a UK exhibition with the changes made to the process since leaving the EU, key information to know and use when completing the documentation when sending goods across the UK border and what to consider during and post show.

Each section is full of helpful links to templates and information to assist with understanding what is needed and why. To view and download the full report visit https://www.purelondon.com/trading-uk-europe.

NEW YORK DESSY GROUP

EST. 1939