Ed’s Letter I

t’s been a hectic few months for many, with trade show after trade show across Europe and the US, and single-brand options in hotel suites, so it is hardly surprising that exhibitors, visitors and event organisers themselves are asking questions about the best way forward for the industry.

Retailers see their buying time as an essential investment, and multiple venues simply reduce choice; having to scurry from one to another in the same city, on the same exhibition days, serves only to fragment a business plan, and reduces numbers visiting the main show arena. It is time that organisers came up with a plan that is able to deliver the right proposition to suppliers and retailers.

In Germany, in April, European Bridal Week and Interbride, competing shows for a number of years, came together in Essen for the first time. Retailers had the opportunity to buy from 500 collections – under one roof. They no longer have to make the decision between shows, delaying ordering from one until they have attended the other. Now, that sounds like a positive step, and one that was welcomed. And the attraction of a big show like Barcelona, where so much is included in its glossy offering, is another lesson to learn from. Getting the right designer names is vital – after all they are the audience pullers – and no-one does it better than Barcelona. Prices have to be right, too, for exhibitors themselves, and for visiting retailers who have travel costs and accommodation to consider. Lots to think about...

Andy Allen Art Director

“The demise of David’s Bridal, whether liquidated or sold on, has good and bad points.” (p34)

Jade Pepperell Love Our Wedding

“Keeping up with the times is a game-changer. Wedding Belles of Four Oaks story says it all.” (p26)

Martha Cooke Head of Ad sales

“New names to the UK bridal arena will always fascinate. Kolin Weaver has an amazing past... and future.” (p68)

Wedding Trader magazine is an online magazine read by the best bridal retailers all over the UK. Designed and created by the makers of Love Our Wedding magazine and findyourdreamdress.co.uk, Wedding Trader is the trade string to the otherwise consumer bow of Meant To Be Media Ltd.

To make an appointment to view the new collections, please contact: Michelle Blackburn: 07935 156275 | michelle@casablancabridal.eu

Style and quality together

Every dress in the Ellis Bridals collections tells a story and stands out in terms of quality and originality. Nothing is simple or basic; everything makes an unforgettable style statement. Construction is key to the proposition to ensure the finest fit and most luxurious finish. The new collection layers detail on detail, brilliantly conceived to have an instantly recognisable personality. There are marvellous interpretations of high fashion features –in sleeves that add a new dimension, necklines that create a focal point as well as a talking point, oversized bows to emphasize sculpted lines, detachables to introduce the possibility of change and offer multiple looks. Check it out, and also the fabulous sister collection, Kelsey Rose. www.ellisbridals.co.uk