BBEH - Attire Bridal magazine

Transcription

$77,5(
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012 ISSUE 31
RETAILER
Roundup
Boutique owners
talk customer service
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The Essential
COLLECTION
Comprehensive
show review
Fancy Footwear
This season’s
style guide
Bridal
trends
We look a
head
to 2013
BBEH AUTUMN
Our independent preview
Plus
Business
advice
News and events
Collection focus
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Regulars
14
Industry news
Up-to-the-minute information
on news and events from the
bridal trade
60
39
It’s in the detail
Hine insurance
Everything you need to know about
protecting your retail business
88
Shop window
Nancy Hayes selects some stunning
products to create a window display
in celebration of the recent
renaissance of all things retro
90
98
Retailer roundup
Bridal boutique owners talk shop
The Fashion Files
Collection focus
39
Textured bodices are big news this
season – here’s our pick of the best
45
The collections
The perfect accessories to match our
two key bridal themes
46
Over the shoulder
Chic asymmetric styles are here to stay.
For 2013 expect delicate floral straps
and sexy sheer fabrics to take centre stage
Find out more about the brand new
mother of the bride range from
Veromia, launching at BBEH
107
ACID
Dids Macdonald, CEO
of Anti Copying in Design
(ACID), demystifies Equal
Intellectual Property (IP) rights
for designers
119
122
Twitter update
We bring you all the hottest news, stats
and facts from our followers
Isabella Grace
Rebecca Doyle celebrates the first
anniversary of her bridal boutique,
Isabella Grace
88
Shop window
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Columns
84
Rock My Wedding
Keep up to date with one of the most
influential UK bridal blogs
92
British Bridal Association
Joe Sweeney takes a light-hearted
look at some of the memorable
moments he has encountered while
expanding British bridal exports
94
Ellie Sanderson
Award-winning bridal retailer, Ellie
Sanderson, discusses the intricacies of
operational planning
84
Rock My
Wedding
Contents
Features
52
Up and
coming
34
xx
Naomi
Neoh
xxxxxxx
29
Stay one step ahead
We speak to some of the leading bridal
footwear suppliers to discover the latest
trends for 2013
52
Up and coming
Katya Shehurina only opened her
London boutique last year but has
already won a celebrity following for
her beautifully crafted evening gowns.
Read on to find out why she’s one
designer to watch
54
Bridal trends
Designers and manufacturers reveal
their trend predictions for spring/
summer 2013 and beyond
58
Design in focus
Our top five bridal trends for the
coming season
86
Retailer interview
Wedded Bliss in Southampton recently
celebrated its 10th anniversary. We
speak to co-owner of the boutique,
Tara Reddish, to find out the secret to
her success
96
PR and marketing
Nicola Russill-Roy of Propose PR
explains how to actively promote your
retail business
100
Retailer profile
Two sisters talk about their newest
venture – a bridal boutique in the
historic town of Colchester in Essex
xxxxxxxxxx
109
Retail technology
David Mackley looks at cookies and the
different types available, and provides a
guide to the new Cookie Law
introduced on 26th May, 2012
113
Introducing…Cara Mia
Amanda Bradwell, Director of The
Eternity Group, chats to Attire Bridal
about a new plus size range that will
minimise alterations for retailers, and
thrill curvy brides.
115
Social Media
SiteWizard’s Barbara Aspin explains
the vital part that Twitter and
Facebook can play in developing your
e-tail business
29
Stay one
step ahead
Profiles
34
Naomi Neoh
The talented British designer discusses
her 2013 bridal collection, and how
she made the move from bridesmaids’
attire to bridalwear
103
Phoenix Gowns
Following a successful show at The
Essential Collection 2012, we speak
to the owner of Phoenix Gowns, Tian
Hong O’Donnell, about what the
future holds for her popular
commercial bridal brand
Shows
22
The Essential Collection 2012
We take a look back at this terrific
bridal trade show
27
The Essential Collection 2013
An early preview of next year’s
exciting event
63
BBEH preview
Our independent guide to the
upcoming British Bridal Exhibition
in Harrogate
63
BBEH
preview
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Editor’s letter
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012
Image courtesy of Demetrios
+39 022152176
www.demetrios.eu
MANAGING EDITOR
Louise Prance
EDITOR
Demelza Rayner
+44 (0)1376 535 609
[email protected]
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT
Nancy Hayes
+44 (0)1376 535 613
[email protected]
SALES MANAGER
Mark White
+44 (0)1376 514 000
[email protected]
SALES EXECUTIVE
Hayley Lyon
+44 (0)1376 535 612
[email protected]
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Scott Brothwell
[email protected]
+44 (0)1376 535 616
DEPUTY PRODUCTION
MANAGER
Sarah Barnes
SENIOR DESIGNER
Vicky O’Connor
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Ami Williams, Rebecca Clarke,
Samantha Lock
WEB DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
Stuart Weatherley
SUBSCRIPTIONS
Alice Henson, Tammy Wright
+44 (0)1376 514 000
KD Media Publishing Limited
Broseley House Newlands Drive
Witham, Essex CM8 2UL
www.attirebridal.com
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These pretty
embellished shoes
from Hassall are chic
and on-trend.
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With the spring/summer 2013 bridal collections
available to order now, and the November/
December issue of Attire Bridal well
underway, it’s hard to believe that we’re still
several months away from the end of the
year. Indeed, as the doors closed on The
Essential Collection 2012, work began on The
Essential Collection 2013. That’s why you’ll find
a comprehensive review of the 2012 event in this
issue, as well as a look ahead to 2013. We’re delighted that Romantica
will be joining us for the third year running in 2013, along with a plethora
of other well known bridal names. Taking place from 7th-9th July, 2013 at
Stoneleigh Park Exhibition and Conference Centre, you can pre-register
to attend at www.tec2013.com.
If you’re keen to find out more about the key bridal trends for the
coming season then don’t miss the feature on page 54. We speak to
some of the country’s leading bridal designers and manufacturers, who
predict which styles are going to sell well. We also find out more about
Eternity Bridal’s new plus size range, Cara Mia, as well as Veromia’s first
mother of the bride collection, Dress Code.
Finally, we preview the British Bridal Exhibition in Harrogate, taking
place from 9th-11th September, 2012 – look forward to seeing you there.
Fashion File 1
on page 39
ȐȹȐȵɺǸ
Demelza Rayner
Editor
Shop window
on page 88
ISSN 1758-0072
Attire Bridal is solely owned, published
and designed by KD Media Publishing
Limited. Whilst every effort was made
to ensure the information in this
magazine was correct at the time of
going to press, the publishers cannot
accept legal responsibility for any
errors or omissions, nor can they
accept responsibility of the standing
of advertisers nor by the editorial
contributions. The views expressed
do not necessarily reflect those of the
publisher. Attire Bridal is published
six times a year. Subscription rates for
overseas readers are £75 per annum
(incl. p+p), Cheques should be made
out to KD Media Publishing Limited
and sent to Attire Bridal @ Broseley
House, Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex
CM8 2UL.
ȇȨɜɄɑѼɕɉȨȃȰ
Industry news
on page 14
Fashion File 3
on page 46
Average Net
Circulation: 3,041
(01/06/10 to 30/06/11)
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Industry news
Read on to find out more
about this season’s movers
and shakers…
International Jewellery London set to shine
this September
International Jewellery
London (IJL), the
showcase of the latest
jewellery trends and
designs, will bring the
best in the industry
together once again
this September.
With more new
exhibitors than
ever before, and
top brands and
designers returning,
the 57th IJL show is
set to be an exciting
event. Organised by
Reed Exhibitions, it
provides retailers with
the perfect chance
to see the hottest
new contemporary
and classic jewellery
collections from
hand-selected British
and international designers and manufacturers. The show runs from 2nd-5th
September at Earls Court.
Event Director, Sam Willoughby, commented: “The show is already seen
as an essential buying event in the calendar for top retailers and buyers across
London, the UK and internationally. Designers and brands choose IJL as
the time to launch their new collections and it provides fantastic sourcing
opportunities for retailers with the busy Christmas period approaching, but
also with 2013 in mind.
“Retailers find they can keep ahead by visiting IJL, in terms of both new
designs and latest trends. With exciting new features, initiatives and names,
this year’s show is set to be outstanding.”
For more information on the IJL 2012 show and the highlights, visit
www.jewellerylondon.com.
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Watters and Benjamin Roberts form alliance
In an unexpected move, popular British bridal brand, Benjamin
Roberts Ltd, has taken over the distribution of bridal lines from
the American bridal company, Watters. At the British Bridal
Exhibition in Harrogate (BBEH) this September, Benjamin
Roberts will also be showcasing the Watters, Wtoo and the new
‘encore’ collection alongside its own collections. Watters maids,
Wtoo maids, C20 and Seahorse collections will remain under the
current structure in Cheshire prior to the transition to Benjamin
Roberts for March BBEH. Sales Director, George Efstratiou, from
Benjamin Roberts will be heading up the current UK Watters/
Benjamin Roberts sales force.
In return, Watters will be actively promoting the Benjamin
Roberts brand across the USA in the latter part of 2013, raising
its profile across the pond.
Speaking about the collaboration, Maria Prince, Vice President
of Watters, said: “We are thrilled with our new relationship with
Benjamin Roberts and are looking forward to exciting expansion
within the UK and Europe. Our plans for extending the brand
further abroad are perfectly suited to Benjamin Roberts’ strength
in the UK and overseas. Both companies place brand integrity
and a people-first attitude at the top of their lists, ensuring
success for us as well as retailers.” Karen Taft, MD at Benjamin
Roberts, adds: “Never before has a deal been so easy with a
company essentially so far away. Their branding is strong, their
website addictive and their marketing and photography fresh
and gorgeous. The people behind the scenes are simply the
best so we’ve signed up for a 10 year contract and that’s for
starters!” For further information on the brands, visit the websites
www.watters.com or www.benjaminroberts.co.uk.
News & events
NEWS IN BRIEF
* Many congratulations to Ellie Sanderson and Katherine Allen, who have both
recently celebrated the 5th anniversary of their respective bridal boutiques.
* The Essential Collection 2013 will take place at Stoneleigh Park Exhibition and
Conference Centre from 7th-9th July 2013 – put the date in your diary now!
* The Balbier Wyatt Group has welcomed two new team members – Holly Cuthbert is
now Brand Manager, while Victoria Jackson is the new Customer Services Executive.
ALFRED ANGELO
LAUNCHES SECOND
DISNEY BRIDAL LINE
NICKI MACFARLANE PRESENTS STRIKING
NEW COLLECTION
To complement her popular Cygnet collection of bridesmaid dresses for younger
members of the wedding party, Nicki Macfarlane has released a range of gowns for
teenage bridesmaids. The Swan Collection uses the same colours, fabrics and styling
details found within the Cygnet line, facilitating a beautiful co-ordinated look to any
bridal party.
Nicki’s latest colour palette includes raspberry, wisteria and sunset, as well as some
of the prettiest pastels such as shell pink and duck egg. With a choice of 30 coloured
silks, there is a shade to suit every style and taste.
For further details, visit www.nickimacfarlane.com.
Following the hugely successful launch of the
first Disney Fairy Tale Weddings by Alfred Angelo,
a second collection has now been released. It
features eight wedding dresses, all inspired by
Disney Princesses.
To accessorise the gowns, Disney Fairy Tale
Wedding Jewels is an exquisite collection of
jewellery, including bracelets, earrings, necklaces,
tiaras and brooches.
Carla Bowden, Senior Manager of Fashion
and Home for The Walt Disney Company EMEA,
commented: “We are delighted to launch a second
collection with Alfred Angelo. With this range,
we’re pleased to offer more fashion-forward styles
to brides, as well as beautiful Disney Princessinspired bridesmaid dresses.
For further details visit www.alfredangelo.com.
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News & events
New retail display directory
now available
The Shop and Display Equipment Association
(SDEA) has published its latest guide to retail
display. From the smallest hook to a complete
store fit-out, the SDEA Directory is invaluable
for sourcing all manner of shop fittings, displays,
PoS, lighting, signage, visual merchandising and
much more.
This comprehensive publication will equip you
with new ideas and inspiration. It is conveniently
organised into sections that lead you quickly and
easily to specialist suppliers by company, product,
trade name, location, service or retail trade.
For more information visit the website at
www.shopdisplay.org.
Empty Box Company
reaches milestone
anniversary
DISNEY AND CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN
CREATE CINDERELLA SLIPPER
Celebrated shoe designer, Christian Louboutin, has created a limited edition Cinderella
slipper in celebration of the global release of Disney’s classic masterpiece. As part of the
festivities, modern day Cinderellas will have the chance to be part of the magic and win one of
the 20 original pairs of slippers created for this collaboration.
To celebrate its 25th anniversary, and
to reflect the excitement around the
Queen’s Jubilee year, the Empty Box
Company has produced some vintagestyle papers for its boxes. Company
Director, Giselle Hulme, says: “My
wedding dress has been stored in one
of our boxes for 20 years, and it is still
in perfect condition. My daughter is now
16 years old and, although not quite
ready for marriage, my dress is in such
beautiful condition a bride could easily
wear it tomorrow!”
The Empty Box Company specialises
in boxes to preserve the dress and other
special items from the wedding day.
Visit www.emptybox.co.uk or pop
along to stand Q43 at the British Bridal
Exhibition in Harrogate for further details.
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NEW FOOTWEAR LAUNCH
Fresh from Paradox London is a collection of bridal shoes,
designed to compete with high street retailers. The range
comprises nine fashion-forward styles, retailing between
£39.99 and £44.99. For further information telephone
+44 (0)20 8885 8000 or visit www.paradoxlondon.com.
Bridal designer diversifies into occasion wear
Vlasta Collu has just launched a stunning collection of jewel-coloured vintageinspired dresses and occasion wear, first seen at The Essential Collection this
July. The ‘30s inspired range includes flattering silk cocktail dresses in vibrant
colours. To find out more, call +44 (0)20 8530 6288.
SUSSEX-BASED BOUTIQUE
WINS AWARD
White Dresses and Tiaras, based in Crawley, West Sussex,
has been presented with the Best Customer Service prize at
the Business Matters Awards. The ceremony, which was held
on Friday 20th July 2012, recognises the very best businesses
in the area.
White Dresses and Tiaras will now be entered into the
final of the Customer Service category at the Southern
Business Awards, which are to be held on Friday 28th
September at The Metropole Hotel, Brighton.
Speaking about the accolade, Claire Miller, Owner of
White Dresses and Tiaras, said: “We are delighted to have
been recognised at these awards, which we entered for the
first time this year. The team at White Dresses and Tiaras
is focused on providing friendly, helpful advice to all of our
customers and we are so proud that our dedication has been
officially rewarded.”
To find out more visit www.whitedressesandtiaras.com.
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News & events
Book now for RBA Awards Dinner and Dance
This year’s RBA Awards Dinner and Dance, The Crystal Ball, is being held on
Monday 10th September at The Majestic Hotel in Harrogate.
Now in its 14th year, this calendar highlight has become a firm favourite in
everyone’s Harrogate schedule.
Speaking about the event, RBA Chair, Laura Daly said: “Each year our members
vote for their favourite suppliers, and after dinner the winners are presented with
their highly prized awards before the evening’s dancing begins!” She continues:
“You don’t have to be an RBA member to buy a ticket - this celebration is open to
all, and is a fantastic way to eat drink and be merry with fellow retailers, suppliers
and industry experts. This year we have an irresistible mix of chamapgne, live
entertainment, awards, prizes, and dancing, all woven together and expertly
handled by our professional compere, Richard Daniels.”
Tickets for the event are priced at £65 plus vat for RBA members, and £75 plus
vat for non RBA members. They include champagne reception, three-course dinner
and table wine.
Please contact [email protected] to purchase your tickets.
Linzi Jay
introduces its
new brand
Silhouettes by Linzi Jay
is a new collection of
petticoats designed for
the modern bride. Priced
from £10, this collection
comprises a variety of
styles, designed to fit
under the most popular
bridal gown silhouettes.
Find out more by
visiting www.linzijay.com.
Sassi Holford supports fashion students
Sassi Holford has enjoyed a long
association with the Fashion
Department of the Somerset College
of Arts & Technology (SCAT), and
has been recruiting graduates and
offering work placements in her
bridal studios since the mid 1990s.
As well as being a member of the
department’s Advisory Committee,
Sassi presents an annual Best
Technical Skills award. This year’s
winner is Nickie Bush from Kent, and
Sassi was particularly impressed with
Nickie’s incorporation of Japanese
pattern cutting techniques in her
final year collection. Nickie’s prize is
the opportunity to work with Sassi
to design a dress for inclusion in the
new ‘So Sassi’ collection.
Fresh for 2013 is a beautiful bridal collection inspired by
the glamour of Vintage Hollywood. Designed by Naomi
Neoh, the Love Letters Collection includes classic ball
gown shapes fashioned from light-as-air silks. The
dresses are made with internal corsets to flatter the
waist, creating a stunning silhouette.
As with previous collections, Naomi has drawn on
a subtle colour palette of vintage tones including shell
blush pink, champagne and oyster shades, all designed
to flatter and enhance skin tone. For further details visit
www.naomineoh.com.
STOP PRESS
Flo & Percy’s Wilderness Forehead Band (£175) was
recently worn by Una Healy from pop group, The
Saturdays, when she married her rugby player fiancé,
Ben Foden.
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SHOW
REVIEW
Following a successful second
event, we take a look back at
The Essential Collection 2012.
It’s been a wonderful year for the UK –
particularly where sports are concerned – so
when Andy Murray finally made it into the finals
of Wimbledon the nation rejoiced. Despite the
finals falling on the first day of The Essential
Collection, bridal retailers are nothing if not
professional, so turned up in their droves to see
next season’s bridal collections, while managing
to keep up-to-date with the on-court action
via smartphone and tablet computer. The
Wimbledon spirit was also very much alive
outside the exhibition hall, with many taking
advantage of our popular Pimm’s tent!
Diverse offering
While the majority of our 2011 exhibitors
returned to The Essential Collection 2012, such
as Romantica, Crystal Breeze, Madeline IsaacJames and Gino Cerruti, we were delighted to
welcome some key European brands for the first
time including White One and Atelier Diagonal
from Pronovias Fashion Group, Demetrios and,
just launching into the UK market, Ladybird.
Many exhibitors were either showcasing
their 2013 collections for the first time to
bridal retailers, or were launching new lines.
Vlasta Collu, for example, unveiled her brand
new mother of the bride and occasion line at
The Essential Collection, while Alfred Angelo
presented retailers with the first opportunity in
the UK to buy from its international collection
of bridal gowns.
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Runway guide
Networking opportunities
One of the most popular elements of The
Essential Collection is its catwalk shows, which
take place eight times over the three days of
the exhibition. It’s the perfect opportunity for
retailers to see the latest bridal collections, and
to make a decision about their in-store offering.
For 2012, Enzoani, Grace Harrington Couture
and Madeline Isaac-James were just three of the
bridal companies showcasing their designs on
the catwalk. One of the stand-out gowns had to
be ‘Heather’s Hope’ from Donna Lee Designs,
a cute 50’s style gown created to raise money for
Breakthrough Breast Cancer.
Also well-received were our on-site seminars,
conducted by a number of industry experts.
Topics included how to increase your virtual
footfall, top tips on boosting your PR and
marketing efforts, and how to secure more instore sales.
After the exhibition closed on the Sunday and
Monday, exhibitors were invited to unwind
outdoors and enjoy some live music, while
tucking into a tasty barbecue and enjoying a glass
or two of Pimm’s. It was the perfect opportunity
to chat to friends and colleagues in the industry,
in a relaxed and convivial setting.
The Essential Collection
Retailer feedback
Here’s just a small selection of the unsolicited emails we received from retailers
who attended, and loved, The Essential Collection 2012.
Laura Parfitt, From
Gaynor Page, Topikki
“I have attended Moda, The White Gall
ery and now The Essential Collection
at Stoneleigh Park, and I have to say that
The Essential Collection was the
best. I am new to visiting wedding trad
e fairs and am only a very small, onewoman business looking to expand into
another area. I was met with nothing
but understanding, helpfulness and hon
esty at The Essential Collection - thank
you for an excellent, excellent show.
Shop
ng
year and, although smaller
tion for the first time this
llec
Co
ial
ent
Ess
e
Th
d
ite
vis
“I
imate setting easy to
ointed at all. I found the int
app
dis
t
no
s
wa
I
e,
gat
rro
than Ha
k to like-minded
inars where I was able to tal
sem
the
d
oye
enj
lly
rea
explore, and
d work.”
f. Well done for all your har
business owners like mysel
Jo Parker, Your Weddi
This
Day Forward
“Thank you for an ex
cellent show. Being
situated in Cornwa
The Essential Colle
ll,
ction provides us wi
th
a realistic
opportunity of atten
ding a trade show. H
arrogate is simply to
far – for us it was an
o
850-mile round trip
that involved three
days in total, of which
17 hours were spent
driving – never to
be repeated!). “In contrast, on Sund
ay 8th July we had a
successful day trip,
arriving at The Essen
tial Collection just
after 10am, leaving
afternoon to return
mid
home at a reasonab
le time. We have seen
our regular suppliers,
all
found three new on
es, and are delighted
with our productive
day. Congratulations
on a very successful
event...long may it co
ntinue. You will alw
ays have our suppor
t.”
Exhibitor feedback
James Waddington,
Romantica
“Continuing on from the
impeccably high standard set
by The Essential Collection in
2011, this year’s event was well
orchestrated and a pleasure to
be a part of. We look forward
to its continued growth over
the coming years and have
already signed on for The
Essential Collection 2013,
taking place from 7th-9th July.”
Helena Boal, Darling
Jewellery
“I just wanted to say thanks
for a great show. It was my
first trade event and I gained
a lot of new business and
many important contacts.
I thought it was very
well organised and the
communication was spot
on, considering I only
booked it a few weeks prior
to the event.”
Laura Biggs, Phoenix Gowns
“I wanted to drop you an email to express our delight with The Essential Collection. Our 2013 collection was received
with much acclaim and we would not hesitate in showing our support next year by attending this fabulous and well
organised show.”
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Ladybird
The Catwalk
Here’s a selection of images
from our popular fashion show,
which took place eight times
over the three days of The
Essential Collection.
Enzoani
Victoria Kay
Madeline Isaac-James
Enzoani
Donna Lee Designs
Demetrios
Donna Lee Designs
Grace Harrington Couture
Romantica
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Gino Cerruti
The Essential Collection
Starlet Jewellery
2013
It’s never too early to start planning for next year’s show. Put the 7th-9th July, 2013 in your
diary now!
The doors hadn’t even closed on The Essential
Collection 2012, when we began busily planning
next year’s offering! Fans of the venue will be
pleased to hear that The Essential Collection
2013 will once again be held at Stoneleigh Park
Exhibition and Conference Centre, within easy
reach of most of the major UK cities.
For exhibitors the direct access to the exhibition
hall makes unloading and loading a breeze, while
for visitors the free parking immediately outside
the exhibition hall is in plentiful supply.
The chosen date – 7th-9th July, 2013, is perfectly
timed to follow the major European trade shows,
allowing retailers to view and buy from the new
season’s bridal collections. Indeed, by ordering
at The Essential Collection, bridal retailers will
receive their dress samples much sooner than
was previously possible, allowing them to sell to
fashion-conscious brides before Christmas.
Romantica has already confimed its attendance
at The Essential Collection 2013, and has been a
strong supporter of the show since it launched in
2011, praising its ‘impeccably high standard’.
Also returning for 2013 will be thriving
British manufacturer, Tara Lee, with its beautiful
flowergirl, christening and communion wear, as
well as beautiful bridal accessories from Lily Bella
Bridal and Starlet Jewellery.
For all the latest news on The Essential
Collection 2013, including latest exhibitor
signings, pre-registration and news on the catwalk
participants, please follow our Twitter feed at
www.twitter.com/EssentialColl. Alternatively,
visit the website at www.tec2013.com $
Romantica
Lily Bella Bridal
Tara Lee
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Bridal shoes
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Help your brides look their best from top to toe. We speak to some of the leading bridal footwear
suppliers to talk trends.
Diane Hassall, Rainbow
Shoes and Hassall
Pearl Drift
What have been your
best-selling shoes over
the past 12 months?
Why do you think
this is?
We have had a
wonderful year, with
brides responding well
to our latest styles.
In Rainbow Club, our most popular style this
year has been the new lace court, Melanie. It’s
an elegant shoe, and lace has really catapulted in
popularity this year. It looks great dyed, too.
For Hassall, our best-selling shoe is
undoubtedly Pearl Drift. It has everything a bride
could want in a luxury shoe, with plenty of ruffles
and pearl beading for that vintage vibe.
What can retailers expect from the new
2013 collections?
I can’t wait for the new shoes to arrive in store, as
our 2013 collections look amazing!
Rainbow Club is introducing several new
ranges, including the Shimmer Collection, and
extra styles in the popular Lace Collection.
An elegant Perfectly Plain story has also been
released, with the option of shoe clips so that
brides can personalise their footwear.
Our Hassall bridal range is looking even
more beautiful, with delicate laces and
embroidered organzas. We’re also using more
sparkle than ever before.
What do you predict will be the key trends for
bridal shoes looking ahead to 2013?
• Lace will continue to be a major trend, either
on its own, or combined with sparkle.
• Pointed shoes are back — the new styles are
sharper, shorter, and sexier than ever.
• Finally, glitter fabrics have been seen on all the
fashion catwalks, and we see this translate into
bridalwear for 2013, as well as bridal accessories.
Melanie
$77,5( ·
g
Deborah Lambourne,
Bourne Shoes
What has been your
best-selling shoe over
the past 12 months?
Why do you think
this is?
Alexa is our bestselling design from
the last 12 months.
It’s a stunning ivory
satin peeptoe platform
with Swarovski crystal-embellished side bow
detail. The brides love it as it’s a classic design
with a striking embellishment.
What can retailers expect from your new
2013 collection?
Bourne Bridal 2013 caters for the key trends
loved by today’s brides, whilst offering that
intangible ‘something different’. This season we’re
presenting beautiful designs that effortlessly fuse
traditional romance with contemporary styling. What do you predict will be the key trends for
Silhouettes such as almond toes, peep-toes,
elegant platforms and points are all on-trend for
2013. Embellishments include bold gems and
stones, or a light sprinkling of Swarovski crystals.
Brides getting married in 2013 are seeking a new
take on classic styles, ensuring romance is not at
the expense of fashion.
Samantha
$77,5(
Alexa
brides. It’s a vintage-style shoe with crystal
embellishment to give it a modern twist.
The bedazzled shoe is similar to the crystal
bow as it’s a vintage-style ivory shoe with a
glitter-covered heel. It’s perfect for brides looking
to incorporate the colour scheme of their
wedding into their footwear.
2013 collection?
Retailers can expect more sparkles, more lace and
more ruffles, along with added choice for budgetsavvy brides. We’ll also be using some original
materials to decorate the shoes.
Yona Armstrong, Crystal
Couture
What have been your
the past 12 months?
Why do you think
this is?
Our best-selling shoes
are the elite crystal
slipper, the vintage
crystal bow, and the
bedazzled design. The
crystal slipper is full of sparkle, so is ideal for
brides wanting to stand out on their big day. It
has a real fairytale feel.
The vintage crystal bow suits more traditional
Vintage Crystal Bow
I predict that platforms and peep-toe slingbacks
will be popular with 2013 brides. There’ll also be
more crystal-covered shoes.
Elite Slipper
Bridal shoes
Jodie
Freya Rees, Freya Rose
What have been your
the past 12 months?
Why do you think
this is?
Our platform bridal
shoes have done
tremendously well over
the past 12 months as
they offer ladies height
and comfort. Two of our best sellers have been
Alana and Jodie.
2013 collection?
The 2013 collection will offer a romantic feel
with plenty of sparkle. We’ve also used delicate
silk flowers to embellish some of the designs.
I believe that classic closed-toe shoes will be
popular, as will elegant heels. Detail at the back
of the shoe will also gain popularity.
g
Meadows Bridal Shoes,
John Barratt
What have been your
the past 12 months?
Why do you think
this is?
Although the general
footwear fashion
in London is for
pointed toes, we have
found that the rounded toe shape has been the
most popular style for our brides. Meadows’
best-selling design has been a round-toe style
named Sapphire which is available in white and
ivory satin, and has the support of a bar with a
crystal trim. With the bar holding the foot into
the shoe, and the padded socks which come
with all of our shoes, brides can enjoy a perfect
combination of comfort and style.
2013 collection?
For 2013 we are introducing more roundtoed designs, many on platforms with crystal
trimming. These styles were previewed at The
Essential Collection Show in July, and proved
extremely popular with retailers.
I believe the majority of brides in 2013 will
be buying round-toe designs, with or without
platforms, yet with the addition of crystal
embellishment. Price is key and if the shoe can
be dyed, as all our styles can, this offers an extra
bonus to retailers and brides alike.
Alana
Sapphire
$77,5( ·
g
Sakura
Ruth Shaw, Harriet Wilde
What has been your
best-selling shoe over
the past 12 months?
Why do you think
this is? Our exclusive Sakura
shoe for Harrods has
sold extremely well.
It features decorative
cherry blossom detail,
with silver leaves cascading down the heel. Brides
adore Sakura because it’s a totally original design
and is incredibly eye catching.
2013 collection?
Referencing the glamorous ‘30s, the 2013
collection features our signature styles, along
with several new shapes, all exuding a feel of
luxury and glamour. Each shoe features excellent
craftsmanship demonstrated through our
silhouettes, our use of fine embellishment and
the way we use luxurious natural fabrics.
Both our signature heel, and the introduction
of a flat peep toe style, give a lean silhouette to
elongate the legs, whilst providing the bride with
comfort. Silk tulle and satin ruffles are artfully
draped onto each shoe, while other styles feature
opulent Swarovski beading and dramatic Art
Deco motifs.
bridal shoes looking ahead to 2013? I predict that pointy toes and kitten heels will be
the key styles in demand for 2013, embellished
with lace and tulle net. Boxing Clever
The Empty Box Company, celebrating its 25th
anniversary in 2012, specialises in decorative
wedding dress and accessories boxes.
Finished with lace and ribbon, the shoe
boxes shown befit that special pair of shoes,
when no other box will do. Trade prices start
from £8.15. $
Contact
Bourne Shoes +44(0)1482 334 596
www.bournecollection.com
Crystal Couture +44 (0)1633 681 965
www.iwantcrystalcouture.com
Freya Rose +44 (0)20 7354 8424
www.freyarose.co.uk
Harriet Wilde +44 (0)20 7263 4149
www.harrietwilde.com
Rainbow Club +44 (0)1392 207 030
www.rainbowclub.co.uk
Meadows Bridal Shoes
+44 (0)1603 219 174
www.meadowsbridalshoes.fsbusiness.co.uk
The Empty Box Company
+44 (0)1822 870 207
www.emptybox.co.uk
$77,5(
Nyria
Florence
Maya
Lady Mary
RISING STAR
Talented British designer, Naomi Neoh, talks
to Attire Bridal about her passion for creating
beautiful and romantic bridal gowns.
When did you first
launch your label,
and with what
business aim?
In 2008 I made my
first wedding dress collection, which allowed
me to indulge in my favourite hobby –
buying and working with the most exquisite
fabrics and laces. Creating beautiful things is
what I love to do, it’s wonderful that people
like the gowns enough to buy them, thereby
enabling me to create a viable business out
of my hobby.
I don’t have a traditional background
in bridal wear design – I used to be an
IT consultant! In March, 2004 I was a
merchandiser at Arcadia, managing an
annual turnover of £100 million. It was at
that point that I started getting a permanent
migraine, so had to leave the position.
By way of a pick-me-up, in 2005 I
completed a short course in bridalwear
design at the London College of Fashion.
This inspired me to start my label in 2006
$77,5(
and, even then, the process was a gradual
one due to my ongoing migraines.
My first love has always been fabric –
during my physics degree I earned money
by making evening dresses for university
black tie events.
What have been the key milestones in your
brand’s development?
I started my business by making bridesmaid
dresses. I felt there was a gap in the market
for quality bridesmaid dresses that could be
adapted according to a customer’s needs. In
addition, I was working from home so didn’t
have a lot of space – bridesmaid dresses
suited me perfectly. Business was good,
but after a year I really needed more space,
and rented a small studio to work from. This
was a turning point and allowed me to move
into bigger projects – namely wedding
dresses. Initially I made upscale versions of
my bridesmaid dresses, but I fell in love with
petticoats after making a Marie Antoinette
costume for a friend attending the Venice
Profile
Anastasia
Contact
Naomi Neoh
+44 (0)208 670 7070
www.naomineoh.com
Carnival – from then on my designs became
a little more extravagant!
How would you describe your signature
bridal style?
I grew up watching black and white films –
anything with romantic costumes would get
recorded and watched repeatedly. My style
is, therefore, inspired by the romance and
glamour of vintage Hollywood movies. I love
to watch how gowns move – the ripple of
fabric as Ginger Rogers sweeps across the
dance floor – and I’ve tried to recreate that
feel in my gowns. They are light, airy and
romantic, mixing structure in the bodice with
movement and flow in the skirt.
Where are your bridal gowns designed
and made, and how integral is this to the
identity of the brand?
Everything is created in our south London
studio and it’s very much a team effort. We
discuss each and every design, trying them
on so that we can develop the fit and cut of
each gown to flatter the body. Having the
entire team on site means we have good
quality control, and each person who works
on the dresses understands the ethos of the
design, along with the fit and form.
What inspired your latest bridal collection
and which of the gowns do you predict will
be best sellers?
Inspired by the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee,
this year I drew on the work of Norman
Hartnell, the Queen’s couturier for
inspiration. This latest collection is about
vintage glamour, expressed through gently
glittering beaded lace and new silk organzas
with a soft sheen. This year we’ve added a
slimmer silhouette to the collection, which
combines the magic of corsetry with the
elegance of a bias cut skirt. It’s difficult to
know what will be the most popular dress
next year, as they all express different ideas
and suit different figures. Our Lady Mary
has received a lot of attention, but there is
also significant interest in Lorelei, with its
detachable lace jacket.
What do you expect will be the key bridal
trends with regards to style, fabric and
embellishment for next season?
I think vintage still has an incredibly strong
vibe, with lace being a key fabric. I’m finding
more brides than ever like to cover their
shoulders, either with a bolero or jacket,
or with the addition of straps. Many of our
dresses have flexible design options, which
allow a bride to create a different look for her
ceremony and evening reception.
What type of retailer do you like working
with, and what support can you offer to
your retail partners?
It’s great to work with people who share my
love of fabric and quality, and appreciate
dresses which are handmade in England.
We enjoy designer days, as we gain a better
understanding of the local market and get to
spend some quality time with our stockists. It
also helps our stockists to better understand
what we are able to deliver. Indeed, because
we make everything in the studio we can
alter and tweak a design to better suit a
bride, which often clinches the sale.
You exhibited at White Gallery earlier this
year. How did the show work for you and
do you plan to exhibit at any other bridal
trade exhibitions over the coming months?
The White Gallery was our first trade show,
which was a little daunting but exciting.
It was great to meet new stockists and to
receive feedback on the new collection. We
are still a small, but growing, company so
will probably continue to do the one trade
show per year.
In addition, we will be exhibiting at the
consumer Designer Wedding Show in
London this October.
Do you have any plans to diversify into any
other areas of the bridal market?
At the moment it’s all just initial ideas and
sketches, but I am looking into occasion
wear for mother of the bride. We’ll probably
start experimenting next year, with a view to
developing a full collection for 2014.
What is your short and long term strategy
for growing the brand in the UK?
We’re aiming to grow gently and steadily,
increasing our stockist numbers to cover
the whole of UK. We don’t want to flood the
market so will be selective about who we
work with. I’m also interested in exporting if
we can find stockists abroad. $
$77,5(
Phoenix Gowns
Celebrate the future with Phoenix Gowns
See for yourself the quality and attention to detail of our designs
We can have orders taken at BBEH delivered to stockists by the end of October, 2012.
Rush deliveries can also be arranged on request (free of charge at BBEH).
No discontinuation of styles and no minimum order.
Flexibility can be arranged with regard to delivery time frames.
Styles can be tailored in line with customer special requests.
We provide a high level of customer service whatever the quantity of order.
Please visit us at BBEH, Harrogate - Stand C9
We look forward to seeing you there or contact us on 01689 831841 for a private viewing.
Email: [email protected]
www.phoenixgowns.co.uk
Also follow us on Twitter @PhoenixGowns
Fashion files
ATTIRE BRIDAL
Fashion Files
FILE
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1
Chic asymmetric styles.
FILE
PȣȐ
2
Starlet Jewellery
ɄȵȵȐȃɜȨɄȽɕ
Gorgeous accessories
to match our two key
bridal trends.
PLUS
FILE
Art Couture
FILE
3
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Textured bodices are big
news this season.
4
Katya Katya Shehurina
TɉǸȽȇɄȹȨȽȝ
Latvian designer, Katya Shehurina’s
debut bridal collection launched in
the UK this May. Turn to page 52 to
find out why she’s one to watch…
$77,5( ·
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File 1
Jasmine Couture
+44 (0)1707 240 068
www.jasminebridal.com
It’s in
the detail
Textured bodices are big news this season –
here’s our pick of the best…
$77,5( ·
2
1
4
3
1. Alan Hannah
+44 (0)20 8804 1444
www.alanhannah.co.uk
$77,5(
2. Charlotte Balbier
+44 (0)1625 521 547
www.charlottebalbier.com
3. Art Couture
+44 (0)8707 707 670
www.artcouturebridal.com
4. Justin Alexander
+44 (0)1908 615 599
www.justinalexanderbridal.com
File 1
Tia
+44 (0)1792 564 710
www.tiabridal.co.uk
$77,5( ·
1
2
3
1. True Bride
+44 (0)1273 728 637
www.truebride.co.uk
$77,5(
4
2. Lazaro
+44 (0)1423 561 870
www.jlmeurope.co.uk
3. Johanna Hehir
+44 (0)20 7486 2760
www.johanna-hehir.com
4. Phoenix Gowns
+44 (0)1689 831 841
File 2
The Collections
Crystabelle
+44 (0)161 485 6585
www.crystabelle.co.uk
To accompany our bridal fashion features this issue, we’ve
compiled a selection of accessories to complete the look.
Studio Bridal Accessories
+44 (0)1706 623 404
[email protected]
Starlet Jewellery
+44 (0)1395 224 284
www.starletjewellery.co.uk
Benjamin Adams
+44 (0)20 8509 0001
www.paradoxlondon.com
Bourne Shoes
+44 (0)1482 334 590
www.bournecollection.com
Set to sparkle
These glittering designs catch the sunlight during
the day, and the disco lights by night!
HT Headwear
+44 (0)7891 819 933
www.htheadwear.com
Freya Rose
+44 (0)20 7354 8424
www.freyarose.com
Textured bodices are big news this
season – help your brides to complete
the look with these cute accessories…
Hassall
+44 (0)1392 207 030
www.rainbowclub.co.uk
Crystabelle
+44 (0)161 485 6585
www.crystabelle.co.uk
Vivien Sheriff
+44 (0)1725 512 983
www.viviensheriff.co.uk
$77,5(
Jim Hjelm Bridal
+44 (0)1423 561 870
www.jlmeurope.co.uk
<ɨȐɑ
the shoulder
A key trend for 2012, chic
asymmetric styles are here to stay.
For 2013 expect delicate floral
straps and sexy sheer fabrics to
take centre stage.
$77,5(
File 3
1
2
4
3
1. Chic by Hollywood Dreams +44(0)20 3357 9791 www.chicbyhollywooddreams.co.uk, 2. LMBridal + 852 2392 6987
www.lmbltd.com 3. Nicki Flynn +44 (0)1273 728 637 www.truebride.co.uk 4. Leigh Hetherington +44 (0)1912 605 757
www.leighhetherington.com
$77,5( ·
THE UK
BRID
TRADE AL
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SUMM
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The Essential Collection will give bridal retailers the chance to see the 2014 collections for the first time in the UK.
The event will not only showcase collections from names well known within the industry but also designers not seen at other
bridal exhibitions.
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The Essential Collection takes place at the centre of the country within 100
miles of most major cities.
The event includes
8 catwalk shows
and a full seminar
programme. For
more details see
www.tec2013.com
Entry is free for trade
buyers and there are
up to 30,000 free
car parking spaces
on-site.
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It’s all about choice
It’s all about location
It’s all about timing
It’s all about The Essential Collection
File 3
Kisui
+49 30 345 068 00
www.kisui-bride.com
$77,5( ·
1
2
3
4
1. Atelier Diagonal by Pronovias Fashion Group www.atelierdiagonal.es. 2. True Bride +44 (0)1273 728 637
www.truebride.co.uk 3. Jesus Peiro +44 (0)1273 491 077 www.jesuspeiro.com 4. Eternity Bride +44 (0)8707 707 670
www.eternitybridal.co.uk
$77,5(
Trudy Lee
Stand Q12 @ BBEH
&$//12:
)25
75$'(35,&(6
+3$+
[
www.trudylee.co.uk
[email protected] 01707 643633
BBEH Kings Suite KS1 next to Hall Q
TɉǸȽȇ
COMING
Latvian designer, Katya Shehurina,
only opened her boutique in central
London last year but has already won
a celebrity following for her beautifully
crafted evening gowns. Her design
talent now extends to a stunning
bridal collection, which launched in
the UK this May. Read on to find out
why she’s one to watch…
$77,5(
Up and coming
Contact
KATYA KATYA SHEHURINA
+44(0)20 7734 1272
[email protected]
www.shehurina.com
What first inspired your love of fashion and why did you decide to specialise in
bridal and special occasion wear?
My passion for fashion has been with me since I was a little girl. I always
dreamed of working in design and wanted to create clothes that
would make women feel more feminine and elegant. I was accepted into
a very prestigious fashion design school in Paris (ESMOD) shortly after
leaving high school and at that point my dream started to become a reality.
The launch of the Katya Katya Shehurina boutique in London helped
me to better understand the needs of today’s “megapolis” woman. Initially,
I started with a wider range of clothes, from everyday to special occasion
wear. However, I had a fantastic connection with special occasion wear - I
just love the way wedding and evening dresses look on women. My team
and I have completely revamped our style in relation to garments for special
occasions and life’s happiest moments. At the same time, I like to think that
we have kept some of the versatility of our everyday collection to make our
dresses more flexible. We offer bridal, evening and cocktail wear and, as per
our motto, “We Sell Happiness!”.
How has your brand evolved since the beginning and what have been the key
milestones in its development?
When I finished my studies and decided to create my own brand I was
basically doing everything on my own. I firstly gained recognition in my
own country of Latvia by participating twice a year in Riga Fashion Week.
I later started to exhibit at international exhibitions, such as Who is Next in
Paris and Rooms in Tokyo. I won a few international stockists and, because
of the growing demand, I created my studio. Now I have a team working
both in Riga and London, I also employ a PR agency that is helping me
to grow and expand. Katya Katya Shehurina collections are now sold in
Europe, the Middle East, Asia and the US.
As mentioned already, one of our key milestones was the opening of our
own boutique in central London in March, 2011. Katya Katya Shehurina
went through some significant changes in terms of its product range and we
now focus solely on evening and wedding wear.
What prompted your decision to launch into the UK market by opening a
flagship boutique in central London?
We always wanted to open our own boutique in Europe and we chose
London as it’s such a cosmopolitan city with a unique blend of customers.
We also believe it is a great place for business and offers very simple and
transparent legislation.
What inspired the latest bridal collection and which of the gowns do you
predict will be best sellers in the UK?
I have always been interested in the period between 1880-1949. A time
that I feel is characterised by spiralling industrial growth, changes to the
previous views of the world and a transition to a new reality which is very
close to the one we know today. All these factors had a great impact on the
new era fashion, which is why I find the time period extremely attractive.
In my view, the main features were the paradox of simplicity in forms and
complexity in decoration, as well as the transition to notions of “comfort”
and a more active way of life. Women became more independent, while
remaining feminine, mysterious and charming.
We think that the Loise dress could definitely be our bestseller for the
next season. We have noticed a very significant interest in this gown during
exhibitions, both in London and Paris. It works great in black and white.
Most recently, Nelly Furtado wore Loise during her concert in Paris, which
was amazing!
Another gown to look for is Antonia. We believe it works brilliantly as
a bridesmaid dress, however some of our clients have chosen to wear it as a
wedding dress. It’s really light and elegant.
Where are your bridal gowns designed and made, and what do you think sets
your designs apart from others on the market? How would you describe your
signature style?
Our garments are designed in our Latvia studio, which is also our
production base. This is incredibly important as it allows us to offer
superior quality and handmade details for a reasonable price, which makes
us competitive in the market. We describe ourselves as being stylish and feminine. Our collection
is focused on wedding wear, but also includes a selection of evening
wear and special occasion garments. Most of our dresses are handmade
and are uniquely designed. We believe that our price ranges, coupled with
the elegant touches of a handmade finish make our collection a highly
valuable proposition.
You exhibited at the White Gallery trade exhibition earlier this year – how
did retailers respond to your bridal collection?
We had a great response from retailers and press. Despite being a new name in
the UK market, we have already gained great brand awareness and have been
featured in a number of consumer bridal magazines and newspapers. We also
gained new customers in the UK and in Continental Europe. It was thrilling
to exhibit our collection alongside some of the more established and wellknown brands.
What is your short and long term strategy for establishing and growing the
brand in the UK?
Since opening our first boutique in central London, we have attracted
buyers from all around the world. Our next objective is to strengthen our
position in the UK. I believe we need to become more recognisable with
local customers and think that once we establish a critical mass of clients we
can really grow in the UK.
Several celebrities have already been photographed in your special occasion
wear – how has this exposure helped to raise the profile of your brand in
the UK?
Celebrities have given us a huge recognition in the UK and helped us raised
brand awareness, which is so important given that we are still relatively new
to the market. If you could design a bridal gown for anyone in the public eye, who would it be
and why?
That would be Lana del Rey. She has such a unique style and personality
and it would be an absolutely amazing experience to be able to design
something for her. $
$77,5(
Marguerite Hannah,
Alan Hannah
“For 2013 we will definitely
see a return to beautifully-cut
classic dresses with minimal
but very strong embellishment.
I’ve used freshwater pearls
on our new dresses with
matching jewellery to
complete the look.
Fabrics are once again
luxurious but simple.
Silk duchesse and crepe
satin are at the heart
of our new Classic
Beauty collection along
with very soft draped
lace. Everything in our
palette is pale ivory with
sparing use of gold
and champagne.”
Bridal
TRENDS
We take a look at spring/summer 2013
and beyond, as leading bridal designers
and manufacturers tell us what styles will
be taking centre stage…
Marina Adamou, Hollywood Deams
“The trend for 2013 is one of romance mixed with styles from the
famous Hollywood starlets. In 2013 we will continue to produce
our signature sculpted bodice with full skirts and delicate details.
We have also introduced some elegant slimline dresses, combining
Hollywood glamour with a modern and sophisticated edge. Many
of our new designs feature on-the-shoulder bodices, and bodices
with straps. The focus for this season is expanding on our new
selected fabrics, such as vintage beaded lace and the finest silks
and tulles.”
Hollywood Dreams
Alan Hannah
Johanna Hehir,
Johanna Hehir
“Modern brides are
searching for an effortless,
less structured look when
it comes to their wedding
dress. Our spring/summer
2013 collection will provide
a splash of pastel colour
to the bride’s wardrobe, as
well as full organza skirts
and statement sashes at the
waist. Soft and romantic
georgette with delicate lace
detail, especially around the
neckline, can be found in
my new collection, as will
all-over lace dresses with
a slim silhouette and my
signature low back detail.”
Johanna Hehir
$77,5(
Bridal trends
Suzanne Neville
Rebekah Roberts, Eternity Bridal
Suzanne Neville,
Suzanne Neville
“In my 2013 ‘Diamond’
collection there’s a huge
variety of fabrics and
styles, from delicate silk
organza and lace to heavier
fabrics such as duchess
satin, in a variety of shapes
that range from silky satin
bias cuts to full romantic
gowns. The popularity of
lace continues to grow as
it has done for the last few
years (it started before the
Royal Wedding) but brides
are wanting more unusual
laces, so I have found some
exclusive designs from
the very best lace mills in
France. Other trends include
vintage-looking beaded
belts, and sheer fabrics with
movement such as chiffon
and organza. I think next
year will see us breaking
away from the strapless
A-line gowns that have been
popular for the last few years
and we’ll see more straps
and sleeves.”
“Romance is taking over the Eternity Bridal and Art Couture
Bridal collection this season. Lace plays a huge part, with
delicate Chantilly lace and heavier corded styles in unusual
designs. Soft, romantic gowns in frothy tulle and layers of
scalloped lace edging feature heavily, as do soft textured flowers
and 3D beaded lace appliqués. Lace jackets, detachable straps,
detachable sleeves and keyhole backs enhance the collection.”
Eternity Bridal
Sassi Holford,
Sassi Holford
“For 2013, fabrics are unashamedly
romantic and very much about
luxurious texture, such as slipper
satin, vintage lace and silk
georgette. Dramatic skirt shapes are
also very important: fit with a very
full flare, fishtail and ballgown — all
these silhouettes emphasise the
beauty of the female figure. The reemergence of the statement fashion
accessory, such as hair pieces and
costume jewellery, translates in
bridal as accent detailing. Belts,
bows and tails enhanced by
diamanté appliqué and brooches
give the perfect finishing statement
to a bridal gown.”
Sassi Holford
$77,5( ·
Jo Coomes,
True Bride
W994
W991
Enchanting, romantic laces
have been a staple feature in
bridal ever since Kate walked
down the aisle last year
in her dreamy Alexander
McQueen creation. Expect
to see this trend evolve, in a
glamorous move towards a
40’s/50’s ‘Film Noir’ look;
created by soft, floaty tulles
and chiffons, finished with
subtle embellishments and
muted, earthy undertones.
Slim silhouettes are
perfect for complementing
all shapes and sizes;
providing a gentle, refined
contour that accentuates
the feminine figure. Teamed
with ‘illusion’ necklines,
delicate shrugs and eyecatching shoulder detail,
True Bridal styles W991
and W994 are an ideal
example of how to create this
unforgettable Hollywood
look that ticks all the boxes.”
True Bride
Rachael Rowles,
Trudy Lee
“Brides-to-be are continuing
to look for the wow factor
with their dream dress. Key
trends that feature in our 2013
collection are backless gowns,
belt details, ¾ length jackets,
floaty layers, heavily encrusted
crystal detailing and the allimportant lace.
“Even now, over a year after
the Royal Wedding, Lace
continues to be loved by our
brides. Our current winner is
an unmissable romantic luxury
A-line lace dress style 63005:
it oozes effortless chic with a ¾
length lace jacket and is finished
off with a stunning belt detail
and gorgeous organza flowers.”
Trudy Lee
$77,5(
Claire Mischevani, Claire Mischevani
“2013 will see beautifully-cut, classic-style gowns in a range
of silhouettes. Shapes will be softer as the detail will be within
unusual fabric techniques. Embellishments will be intricate,
but much more subtle than past seasons. Lace will continue to
have a major influence on bridal trends, with inspiration drawn
from timeless beauties, such as Grace Kelly with a modern edge.
The Claire Mischevani collection will feature beautiful hand
embellishments on interchangeable overlays, giving brides a look
that can seamlessly move from day to evening.”
Claire Mischevani
Tobi Hannah
Jesús Peiró
TOP 5
trends for
2013
1
We predict our top five bridal
trends for 2013 and beyond…
PEPLUMS
This little frill of fabric was first seen on the fashion runways earlier this year, and will
be making an appearance in the bridal industry in all sorts of ways for 2013. Tobi
Hannah gives a modern feminine twist to her bridal trouser suit by adding a peplum
to the jacket, while Jésus Peiró introduces a barely-there peplum to exaggerate the
contrast between the chic white bodice and eye-catching textured skirt.
2
COVER-UPS
The classic strapless A-line
bridal gown is gradually being
pushed aside by cute capped
sleeves and sheer necklines.
In addition, shrugs, bridal
coats and boleros are all
soaring in popularity as brides
seek a flexible look. In keeping
with the current trend for lace,
Ritva Westenius has created a
beautiful lightweight lace coat
that will instantly transform
the look of any classic gown.
Three-quarter-length sleeves
will also be in demand for
2013, as shown by this gown
from White One by Pronovias
Fashion Group.
$77,5(
Ritva Westenius
White One
Bridal trends
3
Ladybird
Romantica
4
SHEER
NECKLINES
MODERN
ROMANCE
Fabulously feminine
skirts in layers of
chiffon or organza will
be taking centre stage
for 2013, such as the
gowns pictured left
from Romantica and Ladybird. This
romantic look will appeal to brides who
want a fairytale wedding, without going
all-out in the flamboyance stakes!
Movement in the fabrics allow for an
elegant, unrestricted walk up the aisle.
Venus Bridal
Alfred Angelo
Charlotte Balbier
The Vintage Wedding Dress
Company
Refining the popular
strapless A-line
gown by adding a
glamorous sheer
neckline instantly
gives the dress a
sophisticated edge.
This trend has been hugely popular in
2012 and shows no sign of abating for
2013. Moreover, as shown by Venus
Bridal and Alfred Angelo (pictured
right), this year the trend incorporates
added embellishment for a more
luxurious look.
5
LACE
Not a trend likely to go away in a
hurry, lace is with us for at least
the next 12 months. Expect the
fabric to be used sparingly on
some gowns – restricted to a
back panel, sleeves or neckline,
as per the gown from The Vintage
Wedding Dress Company, and
abundantly on others – as per
the gown shown from Charlotte
Balbier. For 2013 expect to
see more gently coloured ivory
or champagne laces, as well
as vintage laces and heavier
brocades. $
$77,5(
It’s better to be safe
than underinsured
Commercial Account Executive, Rachael Carrington (Cert CII)
from specialist broker Hine Insurance, shares her insight on
the importance of protecting your bridal business using a
targeted policy.
Whether you’re new to the bridal trade or have many years of
experience, you’ll understand that insurance is a necessity.
Ensuring you have the correct
terms and the adequate level of
cover is the first step to making
your business – new or existing
– a success. Only with the right
insurance package can you
enjoy true peace of mind, which
in today’s uncertain market, is invaluable.
If you’re keen to amend your current policy,
or if it’s time for a renewal, it’s important not to
get sidelined by cheap deals and too-good-tobe-true offers. Remember the specific needs
of your bridal boutique and think about how
your staff, stock and shop contents should be
accounted for.
“Once inside the store, the
wellbeing and safety of your
customers is in your hands.
Applying the right level of Public
Liability Insurance will protect your
business against costly payouts.”
With insurance packages varying widely in
content and cover, suitable policies for your
retail business should incorporate one or more
of the following:
• Employers’ Liability Insurance
No matter how large or small your team, as
a shop owner it’s your legal responsibility
$77,5(
to secure your employees’ wellbeing. If an
employee suffers as a result of company
negligence, having the correct liability cover
in place means you are protected if a claim is
made; it will also cover the cost of legal fees
and damages.
• Buildings, Stock and Contents Insurance
To protect the external and internal elements
of your shop, it’s often easier to combine
buildings, stock and contents cover under one
comprehensive policy. Think about everything
that falls within the four walls of your business
and how these tangible assets should be
protected against accidents, adverse weather
and unforeseen incidents.
• Public Liability Insurance
As with any retail business that is open to
the public, there is always the chance of an
accident happening inside your shop. Once
inside the store, the wellbeing and safety of
your customers is in your hands. Applying
the right level of Public Liability Insurance will
protect your business against costly payouts.
• Business Interruption Insurance
This type of cover protects against loss of
income if your business is closed for a period
of time due to fire, flooding, thief or vandalism
- anything that leaves your business in a
condition that makes it potentially dangerous
or unsuitable to work in. Business Interruption
Insurance will secure the financial aspect of
your bridal shop when it’s needed most.
Always work with an insurance team that has
specialist experience in the bridal sector as it
will understand your precise requirements and
design a bespoke policy. $
Hine offers:
• specialist knowledge in the bridal
sector
• expert advice on the type and level of
insurance you need
• competitive quotations from a range of
leading insurers
• help with your claim in the unfortunate
event of a loss
• comprehensive after-sales support
Contact
Hine Insurance
+44 (0)161 438 0000
www.hine.co.uk
@hineinsurance
facebook.com/hineinsurance
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BBEH
Autumn
SALES
Read on to find out what to
expect from the British Bridal
Exhibition this September…
In Brief
Show: BBEH
Organiser: Ocean Media
Dates: 9th-11th September 2012
Location: Harrogate, North Yorkshire
Opening times: Sun & Mon: 9.30am-6pm,
Tue: 9.30am-4pm
Website: www.bbeh.co.uk.
Taking place from 9th-11th September, the British
Bridal Exhibition will once again be drawing
designers, manufacturers and retailers to the
pretty spa town of Harrogate for its bi-annual
trade show. Exhibitors include all the names
you might expect, encompassing bridalwear,
formalwear, prom, accessories, footwear,
occasionwear and more. Key bridalwear names
this year include JLM Europe Ltd, Justin
Alexander, Mon Cheri Bridals, Romantica and
Ronald Joyce.
The exhibition takes place throughout seven
halls and four hotels, with hall D set to be the
social hub of the event, thanks to its brand new
champagne and cupcake bar. Tea, coffee, bubbly
and cupcakes will be served free of charge all day,
every day of the exhibition!
If you can drag yourself away from the
champagne and cupcakes, retailers interested in
picking up trends for a/w 2011 may be keen to
view the catwalk shows. These are held in the
sumptuous Royal Hall, and feature the latest
bridalwear, designerwear and occasionwear. $
Getting to the exhibition
Airport
Leeds/Bradford airport is only a few miles from
Harrogate
Shuttle bus
A complimentary bus service to and from
Leeds/Bradford International Airport is
available. Seats are on first come first served
basis. To book seats please contact Rachel Hall
on + 44 (0)24 7657 1048 or Rachel.Hall@
oceanmedia.co.uk.
Taxis
Blue Line Taxis can be contacted on
+44 (0)1423 530 830
Yellow Line Taxis can be contacted on
+44 (0)1423 521 531.
Trains
A regular service connects Harrogate with the
main rail network via York and Leeds.
Contact
BBEH
www.bbeh.co.uk
$77,5( ·
The New Collections
Read on for our selection of the most exciting companies to visit at the British Bridal Exhibition
in Harrogate this September
Bridalwear
Art Couture
Hall C, Stand 25/39
www.artcouturebridal.com
For 2013, Art Couture is introducing new fabrics to its bridal
collection, including mikado, organza and several laces. Romantic
gowns feature prominently, whether using delicate lace and tulle, or
modern corded lace teamed with duchesse satin. Vintage-inspired
beaded appliqués, belts and bows decorated with diamantés, and
freshwater pearls add the finishing touches.
As ever, the gown structure is contemporary with pleating detail,
fan necklines and oversized ruffle skirts.
Art Couture’s wholesale prices range from £175 - £495 and full
stock is held in house, available for immediate delivery.
$77,5(
Maggie Sottero
Majestic Hotel
www.maggiesottero.com
Maggie Sottero’s spring/summer 2013 collection is a celebration of
femininity. Lace, ruffles and flowers appear across the range, combined
with illusion lace, rich beading and vintage motifs. A great emphasis is
placed on texture and volume.
BBEH
Crystal Breeze
Hall B Stand 16
www.crystalbreezelondon.net
At the British Bridal Exhibition this September Crystal Breeze Bridal
will present a range of gorgeous new styles in lightweight taffeta
and soft chiffon. The clever cut and expert working of fabrics creates
gowns ideally suited for destination weddings, or for more formal
celebrations. Prices are competitive and offer excellent margins.
Also on display will be Crystal Breeze’s stunning collection of prom
gowns and occasion wear.
Tara Keely
Hall C, Stand 24/40
www.jlmeurope.co.uk
Designer Lazaro Perez has indulged in sumptuous fabrics for the Tara Keely
Fall 2012 collection, from luxurious laces to the flattering fit of mikado
organza. Tara Keely offers glamorous styling and trend-led design, from
peplums to one-shoulder necklines and beautiful keyhole backs. Silhouettes
range from trumpet gowns to full tulle skirts.
Sottero & Midgley
Majestic Hotel
www.sotteroandmidgley.com
The Sottero & Midgley line is designed with the fashion-forward
bride in mind, featuring avant-garde styling and high-fashion couture
elements. The 2013 spring collection showcases vintage-inspired
lace, illusion necklines and three-quarter-length sleeves. Whether the
bride imagines herself wearing a fit and flare, a sophisticated A-line or
sumptuous ballgown silhouette, she should be able to find her perfect
dress in the Sottero & Midgley collection.
$77,5( ·
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BBEH
Davinci Bridal
Hall C, Stand 74
www.davincibridal.com
Davinci bridal is a label producing proven
designs at competitive price points, with no
compromise on fabric, structure and styling.
The designs are broadly reflective of
current bridal trends, giving the retailer a
commercial offering.
$77,5( ·
Bridalwear
Kay Mason
Hall A, Stand 44
www.kaymasonbridal.co.uk
It’s only been two years since the launch of Kay Mason, but the bridal
label has already gained support from UK retailers. Designer, Denise
Lennox, puts the label’s early success down to the fact that she still
runs her own boutique, and has first-hand knowledge of the styles
brides desire. For the first time in the label’s history, Kay Mason will
be showcasing its new 2013 collection at the bridal preview shows in
Harrogate this September.
$77,5(
Wendy Makin
Hall A, Stand 40
www.wendymakin.com
The new Wendy Makin
and BellaDonna collections
will continue to exude the
elegant sophistication that
make up Wendy’s signature
style. Beautiful laces and
silks are the mainstay of the
Wendy Makin Bridal Designs
collection. New styles include
lace slim-fitting silhouettes
as well as fuller styles with
flowing chiffons and dupion
silk skirts.
The new BellaDonna
collection shows the youthful
outlook of the latest Wendy
Makin range. Fabrics and laces
are embellished by delicate
handwork and beading to
present a collection for the
full gambit of weddings, from
destination to traditional.
Mohair Mix Suit which is available
in Grey from stock and Navy to be
introduced for spring 2013 - both
can be seen on stand A9 at the
British Bridal Exhibition between
the 9th and 11th of September.
*** STAND A9 ***
For More Information contact our sales office:
Telephone: 01329 550612
Or Email: [email protected]
www.jeanyves.co.uk
Mohair Mix suit
This wedding dress has been preserved
in an Empty Box Company Wedding Dress Box
for 20 years and it is still perfect....
Sell Beautiful Boxes to your brides!
The Wedding Dress Box
BBEH Hall Q Stand 43
www.emptybox.co.uk
25 years of making Wedding Dress Boxes
01306 740193
New Chiffon Collection
now avaliable
*5l4
"-"#065
5)&
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130.'30$,4

HARROGATE
9th -11th September
Visit us at - Stand Q5

Tel: 01942 238643
www.promfrocks.co.uk [email protected]
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BBEH
Diane Harbridge
Hall A, Stand 28/29
www.dianeharbridge.com
Diane launched her debut bridal collection at the British Bridal Exhibition
in Harrogate this March, and now returns with her brand new Boutique
collection. Featuring scalloped laces, twinkling tulles and silks, the gowns
offer great value for money, with excellent structure and quality. As an
extra bonus for retailers, all bridal gowns can be adjusted according to a
bride’s requirements.
Eternity Bridal
Hall C, Stand 25/39
www.eternitybridal.com
This season the Eternity
Bridal collection offers a
range of gown styles to
suit every taste.
Lace is a huge part
of the collection, with
delicate Chantilly lace
and heavier corded
styles in unusual
designs. In addition,
sequin fabrics and
lace appliqués give the
line a bohemian feel.
Straps with embellished
details, floaty lace
sleeves, detachable
single shoulder straps
and tulle wraps are
also prominent.
New for this season is
the Cara Mia collection,
comprising five specially-designed gowns with the larger woman in
mind. These are contemporary gowns cut to flatter the fuller figure.
$77,5( ·
Bridalwear
LMB Ltd
Hall M, Stand 2
www.lmbltd.com
Following its
attendance at The
Essential Collection
in July, LMB Ltd
will once again be
showcasing its new
collection of 25
styles, using lots of
lace, organza, chiffon
and satin to make
the graceful, joyful,
ever so chic designs.
Designs include
A-line, ballerina,
empire line and
mermaid silhouettes
to cover all kinds
of brides.
$77,5(
Enzoani
Hall Q, Stand 44
www.enzoani.com
Enzoani will be showcasing
a number of collections at
BBEH this year. Being the
most sought-after bridal
collection for the Enzoani
brand, Blue by Enzoani
offers an exquisite collection
of luxurious fabrics ranging
from silks, chiffon, tulle and
organza all crafted into an
array of beautiful silhouettes
for every body type at
competitive prices. With its
tie to European charm and
a touch of Asian grace, the
new 2013 Blue Collection
endeavours to bring back
classic elegance with a delicate attention to light embellishments, charming
necklines and timeless silhouettes.
NEW CHARCOAL MOHAIR FOR 2012
Already with several awards, our Stock Service garments
feature not just the traditional English look, but an exciting and
hugely successful lightweight Mohair Family: Silver Grey, Navy,
Sandford, Black and now Charcoal.
BBEH
Bridesmaids/Prom
Alvina Valenta
Hall C, Stand 24/40
www.jlmeeurope.co.uk
The latest Alvina Valenta
collection features a beautiful
palette of soft metallic silver,
rose pinks, nudes and classic
black and ivory. Touches
of metallic lace, stunning
chiffons and elegantly cut
mikado gowns can be seen
throughout the range.
Silhouettes offer variety,
from classic A-lines to
flirtatious tea-lengths and soft,
romantic chiffons.
Linzi Jay Bridesmaids
The Cairn Hotel
www.linzijay.com
Soft flowing chiffons with subtle detailing are the main theme of the
2013 Linzi Jay bridesmaid’s collections, along with an effective mix
of taffeta and lace. The size range is broad, starting at a size four and
rising to a size 40. Children’s dresses are available to match all styles.
Pretty Maids
Hall C, Stand 25/39
Key looks for this season’s Pretty Maids collection are pleated
bodices, floral embellishments and one-shoulder gowns. Contrasting
fabrics and satin waistbands are used throughout the range, along
with draped chiffon skirts and sleeves.
The collection is available in a variety of fabrics, in over 70 shades.
Pretty Maids’ wholesale prices range from £55 - £95 and full stock is
held in house, available for immediate delivery.
$77,5( ·
Lingerie and accessories
By Wishes
Hall C, Stand 62
www.bywishes.co.uk
Fresh from lingerie firm, By Wishes, is
its new backless adhesive bra, available
in a selection of cup sizes and two
colourways. Ideal for any low back or
lace dress, it has a re-usable adhesive on
the wings and under the bust.
Also new from By Wishes is the
Punto Blanco collection of men’s socks.
These are perfect for men’s hire shops
as they’re presented in a counter stand
for instant impact. Each stand contains
48 pairs of socks, providing an ideal
add-on sale opportunity for retailers.
Arianna
The Cairn Hotel
www.ariannatiaras.com
New for 2013 are fascinators, veil combs and back jewellery.
Swarovski crystal gives the Arianna collection added sparkle, while
matching jewellery and bracelets complete this latest collection of
UK-designed and made bridal accessories. There is a huge colour
range of pearls, crystals and feathers, as well as bespoke designs.
$77,5(
Body Wrap Bride
Hall A, Stand 8
www.patricia-eve.co.uk
Body Wrap Bride is a feminine shapewear collection exclusively
designed to smooth and shape all image-conscious brides on their
special day.
Using seamless technology, Body Wrap Bride features distinctive
cuts and beautiful lace panelling to slim strategic points on the body. Cleverly designed ‘lifting zones’ in the derriere and softer pockets
ensure the buttocks are not flattened, while the tummy and waist
areas house a firmer panel to help flatten and slim. Fabrics are
breathable and provide moisture management so the bride won’t feel
constricted or uncomfortable.
Silhouettes in the bridal collection include the high-waist panty,
the bra slip, the bodysuit, the high-waist long-leg panty, and the
high-waist thong all available in white or ivory and in four sizes.
BBEH
HT Headwear
Hall D, Stand 1
www.htheadwear.com
HT Headwear, the London-based bridal headwear company, will launch its first wholesale
collection at the British Bridal Exhibition in Harrogate.
Featuring an exclusive selection of HT Headwear’s best-selling hand-blocked headpieces,
floral combs, clips and headbands made with detachable birdcage veils in luxurious silks and
chiffon, the wholesale collection will be made available to selective bridal boutiques in the
UK and worldwide.
HT Headpieces are designed and handmade in England by head designer Helena Talbot.
With a natural creative flair and eye for design, Helena uses the finest fabrics, feathers and
embellishments sourced from British suppliers ensuring every piece is made with the highest
standard of craftsmanship.
Ivory & Co Tiaras
Hall M, Stand 36
www.ivoryandcotiaras.co.uk
This September, award-winning bridal accessories firm Ivory & Co
will be unveiling its debut bridal gown collection, featuring sumptuous
fabrics in chic and romantic designs.
Also on display will be some some stylish new Great Gatsby-inspired
haircombs and hairclips, many with freshwater pearl detail, as well as
versatile hairvines that can be worn across the forehead, around the neck
as a choker, or even around the waist as a belt.
$77,5( ·
Mother of the bride and
occasion wear
Jim Hjelm Occasions
Hall C, Stand 24/40
www.jlmeurope.co.uk
Jim Hjelm Occasions will present its Fall 2012 collection at the BBEH,
inspired by the season’s hottest catwalk trends of colour blocking,
removable chiffon over-skirts and peplums. Colours this season will
be bright and bold, including jewel tones, coral and fresh shades of
turquoise. Chiffon remains the fabric of choice, complemented by styles
in organza and silky taffeta for a more structured look.
Mascara by Frank Saul
Hall C, Stand 3
www.mascaracollection.com
The new Mascara s/s 2013 collection includes a selection of
cocktail and evening dresses, comprising flattering knee-skimming
skirts and well-cut tailored suits made from silk and taffeta. The
range also offers figure-hugging bodices paired with striking
embellished boleros.
Offering generous margins to retailers, the collection includes
20 different styles and, while each of them is designed with the
mother of the bride in mind, the styles also have the versatility
for a range of special occasions such as formal dinners, cocktail
parties and balls. For a younger audience, Mascara also presents a feminine partyperfect collection that includes body-con dresses in a selection
of bright colours, statement dresses embellished with sparkling
crystals, and daring plunge back details.
$77,5(
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for low back and
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To see our full collection of shapewear and solutions,
visit us at BBEH Harrogate, 9th - 11th September, stand C62
Contact us now for a copy of our latest brochure
T: 01484 888888 E: [email protected]
Eastman Staples Ltd, Lockwood Road,
Huddersfield, HD1 3QW
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Formalwear
Heirloom
Hall B, Stand 34
www.heirloomwaistcoats.co.uk
Contemporary designs are key for 2013, with great attention to
detail. Double-breasted waistcoats are currently on trend and
Heirloom’s Elite range has been in great demand with its striped
and spotted ties to complement the simple design of the waistcoat.
Expansion of Heirloom’s stock service will be a big plus to retailers
in 2013 – 30 waistcoats are already carried in stock, however
another 12 will be added to the portfolio. Heirloom prides itself
on quality and service and continues to produce all its garments in
the UK.
Cameron Ross
Hall B, Stand 2
www.hirewear.co.uk
Cameron Ross will be showing its original range of formal and highland
wear at the BBEH this September. Central to the range are the grey wool/
silk blend tailcoat and short jacket, which have become the company’s
most popular hiring garments over the last couple of years. Cameron Ross
also has a wide range of waistcoats and neckwear, which can be selected to
complement the colours of any bridal party. Finally, Cameron Ross will be
showcasing its unique ‘Help for Heroes’ kilt, which not only looks stylish,
but also contributes to a good cause.
Jean Yves
Hall A, Stand 9
www.jeanyves.co.uk
Spring 2013 will see the continuation of Jean Yves’ top sellers — the
popular Twilight and Grey Parisian coats. Midway through 2012
Jean Yves introduced a grey Mohair mix tail and lounge coat. This
has been so successful that the firm will be introducing navy and sand
colourways for 2013. The Classics will remain popular, including
Herringbone Tails, Edwards and Lounge suits, as well as the plain
black jacket and black/grey stripe trousers.
For evening wear, Jean Yves has just introduced a new budget
dinner jacket, priced at £36.90. Shoes have been launched for the first
time in 10 different styles — all are now in stock.
Finally, Jean Yves will be showcasing two collections of shirts —
Red Label is the budget shirt, available in four collar shapes in white,
ivory and black. The Prestige Plain line is cotton rich, easy care, and
comes in the same body shape, collar shapes and shades as the budget
range — this has a full double cuff.
$77,5(
PɑȐȽȇɕɉɄɜɜȨȽȝ
Debbie Carlisle
Keep your finger on the bridal
pulse with the latest trend
tips from leading UK wedding
blog, Rock My Wedding.
Ruffles and waves
Lazaro
Dreamy ruffles in all shapes
and sizes remain at the
forefront of bridal fashion
design. From luxurious
asymmetric layers to
voluminous cascades of
tulle, ruffles are the perfect
way to add romance to the
big day.
Whimsical ruffles needn’t
be confined purely to
sartorial choices. We’ve
spied this hot trend in other
aspects of the wedding
too. Brides are opting to
reflect the soft frills of their
frocks in their table linens
by adding chiffon drapes
and textures to the backs of
chairs, and by using similarly
textured flowers such as
peonies and garden roses in
their bouquets.
Raspberry and mint
One bridal trend that’s been gathering strength over
the past year is wrist adornments. From the statement
cuff to the corsage, more brides than ever are
choosing to decorate their wrist for instant glamour.
Utterly romantic, this trend can be interpreted in
a myriad of ways. We’ve seen everything from real
flowers, ribbons, swathes of lace and oodles of gold
chains enveloping wedding party wrists this season —
all the way from the mother of the bride or groom, to
the bridesmaids.
Indeed, for female attendants a floral wristlet
makes a wonderful alternative to the traditional
bouquet. We particularly love corsages created using
anemones and gardenias because of their thick,
beautiful petals. Equally, modern brides can mirror
the embellishments within their gowns by wearing
a wide cuff scattered with pearls, crystals or even
precious stones.
$77,5(
A sister trend to last year’s popular
poppy red and teal colour scheme,
we’ve noticed that a soft and feminine
raspberry and mint palette is rapidly
becoming the colourway of choice for
fashion-forward brides.
Younger, lighter and fresher than its
teal counterpart, the colour mint has a
cool crispness that flatters everybody.
Paired with raspberry shades within
the bridal party, grooms sporting mint
hues look fresh for modern wedding
celebrations, as well as possessing enough
subtlety for vintage wedding parties too.
Brides are incorporating the softest
shades of minty greens into all aspects
of their wedding day — from table linens
and furniture to wedding stationery and
bridesmaid dresses. Why not encourage
your brides to extend this theme by
making mint and raspberry-flavoured
signature cocktails for their guests? $
Nicki Macfarlane
Contacts
Rock My Wedding
www.rockmywedding.co.uk
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Majestic Textiles Ltd
Organic Silk
Majestic textiles Ltd is now certified organic by the Soil association
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A Decade of ɑȐɕɕȐɕ
Wedded Bliss in Southampton recently celebrated its 10th anniversary. We speak to co-owner of
the boutique, Tara Reddish, to find out the secret to her success…
From l to r: Tara Reddish and Andrea Wyatt
When did Wedded Bliss first open its doors
to brides?
Andrea Wyatt and I opened Wedded Bliss in
2002 as co-owners. As the business grew, we soon
realised we needed more space but were reluctant
to relocate as we were already established in
the area. In 2008 a beautiful premises became
available just across the road, which was four
times the size of our boutique. We could not
believe our luck! We moved within two months
and have never looked back!
How would you describe your current in-store
bridal collection?
Having a varied collection is important, so we try
to cover as many shapes and styles as possible to
suit every bride’s needs. More and more women are
asking for straps or jackets with their gowns and
lace is definitely a favourite fabric with our brides.
Which designers do you stock and why?
We have beautiful collections by Maggie Sottero,
$77,5(
Amanda Wyatt and Lou Lou Bridal. In addition,
we have been a stockist of Benjamin Roberts
since the beginning and love the personal service
and loyalty they have given us over the years. I
have complete confidence in all the designers
we use; they all provide us with fabulous gowns
and exemplary service. We have stopped using
designers in the past, simply because they have
not met our high expectations.
What do you enjoy most about your role and the
bridal business in general?
It is such a special experience to be able to help
brides find their dream dress. Every aspect
of owning a bridal boutique is exciting and
rewarding, from meeting new brides-to-be, to
our trips to the trade shows to choose our new
collections, it is all a pleasure. It makes us very
proud when we receive thank you letters and
cards from happy brides!
What do you feel makes your shop special and
how do you self promote?
I believe what makes us stand out is the passion
we all have for what we do: from the minute a
bride walks through our doors she is made to feel
special. The bridal party can relax with a glass
of champagne and enjoy the experience. The
majority of our customers now come to see us
through recommendation so our reputation is
very important to us.
“It is such a special experience to
be able to help brides find their
dream dress. Every aspect of
owning a bridal boutique
is exciting and rewarding, from
meeting new brides-to-be, to
our trips to the trade shows to
choose our new collections, it is
all a pleasure.”
Facebook and Twitter have also become
important tools, as we can keep in regular
contact with our brides, providing offers and
news at the touch a button.
Do you hold any in-store events? If so, what
events do you have planned for later this year?
This year is our 10th anniversary so we have
planned plenty of celebrations! We held a party
in May with the friends we have made through
the business over the years, and we’re hosting a
special event later in the year for our brides.
Throughout the year we hold Designer
Weekends, which is a great opportunity for
brides to see a larger collection of gowns by their
favourite designer. We are fortunate enough to
have a spacious shop in which we can hold events
such as wedding fairs and champagne receptions
to launch new collections.
Retailer interview
Contact
How do you ensure that the service your
boutique provides is second to none?
Having a luxurious, spacious bridal studio, caring
and professional staff and those extra personal
touches, goes a long way to providing our
brides with the best possible buying experience.
Customer service is everything to us so we always
go that extra mile to make sure every bride
feels special. There is always a bottle of fizz and
refreshments on offer and our amazing team will
always give an honest opinion and sound advice
to brides. What do you believe is the key to running a
successful bridal business?
The key to our success is a combination of factors
including professionalism, enthusiasm and
honesty. We never take anything for granted and
the whole team works hard to make the business
the success it is today. In this way we always try
to stay one step ahead of our competition.
What would you say are the main challenges you
face as a bridal shop owner?
When you are lucky enough to do something
that you love, most challenges are easy to solve.
I would say our biggest hurdle is to find enough
time to keep up to date with all our marketing,
advertising and administrative tasks.
What are your plans for Wedded Bliss over the
next few years?
We would love to expand again at some point,
but are currently concentrating on doing what
we do best and continuing to raise our profile.
You never know what is around the corner or
how the industry will change so it is important
to be as proactive as possible and to keep up with
the changes.
What developments have you witnessed within
the industry during your time as the Manager of
a boutique?
Over the past few years more and more brides are
buying their wedding dresses over the internet.
As most of them find out the hard way, what you
think you are buying is not always what you get!
We are often faced with a heartbroken bride who
has bought what she thought was a ‘designer’
gown at a fraction of the price, only to discover
Wedded Bliss Bridal Studio
+44 (0)23 8084 2555
www.weddedblissbridal
studio.com
the wedding
dress is a poor
quality copy.
In addition,
brides are not afraid
to ask for discount or free
accessories now, which never happened a few
years ago. Finally, what advice do you have for other bridal
boutique owners who are just starting out?
Don’t expect success to come overnight! Your
success will depend on your reputation and
a good reputation takes time to achieve. Be
prepared to work hard and make some mistakes
along the way. Most importantly, enjoy it! $
“Over the past few years more
and more brides are buying their
wedding dresses over the internet.
As most of them find out the hard
way, what you think you are buying
is not always what you get!”
$77,5(
Retro Phone Cream,
Berry Red, £55
+44 (0)1432 274 805
www.berryred.co.uk
The Vintage Wedding Dress Company
www.thevintageweddingdresscompany.com
Sixties Style
Nancy Hayes chooses
a selection of products
to create a chic retro
window display.
Stone Crystal Bracelet,
I Kandi, £18
+44 (0)7772 580 137
www.ikandi.co.uk
Lo Ray Sofa, Rume, £1,900
+44 (0)1273 777 810
www.rume.co.uk
Tassel Earrings, I Kandi, £12
+44 (0)7772 580 137
www.ikandi.co.uk
Leather Journal,
Fairwind, £17.50
+44 (0)845 196 0256
www.fairwindonline.com
Twiggy Lockers, THE
OLD CINEMA, £825
+44 (0)20 8995 4166
www.theoldcinema.co.uk
Stratford, Yull Shoes, £110
www.yull.co.uk
$77,5(
$77,
Lamp Rose Pompon,
Jasmine Way, £55
+44 (0)20 8715 2520
www.jasmineway.co.uk
Stripe Console, French Bedroom
Company, £1150
+44 (0)845 644 8022
www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk
Location,
ȵɄȃǸɜȨɄȽѮ
Four bridal shop owners share their secrets on offering
brides the very best customer service…
Dudu Sibanda, Couture & Tiaras Bridal
What would you say are the three key ingredients
necessary for giving brides the very best experience of
shopping for (and hopefully buying) their wedding dress?
At Couture & Tiaras Bridal we believe that when a bride is spending a huge
amount of money on a dress, she deserves to feel absolutely spoilt. We pull
out all the stops in making this an enjoyable experience, from the moment
she enters our doors to the time she walks out with her purchase.
Our brides are each assigned their own bridal consultant, who assists
in selecting the gown. We give all new brides around one and a half hours
consultation time to ensure that they have adequate time to select ‘the one’.
We look after their mums, sisters and friends too. While they sit and
watch ‘the show’, as we call it, they are offered tea in pretty china cups. Once
the purchase is made, we also offer a glass of bubbly to toast the bride.
Tell us about a particular instance when you’ve had to go over and above
the call of duty for your brides.
All of our brides are special, however, some are more precious than others.
A disabled bride chose one of our Pronovias dresses, which had to be
custom made. She was nervous about the prospect of falling over, so we
organised a rehearsal with the venue and car service to prep her for her big
day. We delivered her gown and dressed her on the big day. She had the
most fantastic wedding and could not thank us enough for the confidenceboosting preparation.
What is the most important piece of advice you’d give to a new bridal
retailer about excelling at customer service?
Good customer service is the key to success in every business, but even more
important in the bridal industry as we mainly depend on word-of-mouth
referrals. I would make sure your team has some training in customer care
and that you have zero tolerance of any member of the team stepping out of
line as it will cost you heavily.
$77,5(
Location
Joanne Cooke, Curvy Couture Bridal
necessary for giving brides the very best experience
of shopping for their wedding dress?
1) Environment/atmosphere: The purchase of a luxury
dress deserves a luxurious setting, with a relaxed and
welcoming atmosphere.
2) Empathy: We have experienced disappointment and humiliation at the
hands of bridal retailers ourselves, which allows us to have real empathy
with our brides. Unless you have had that experience, it is impossible to
understand just how traumatic a visit to a bridal shop can be for a bigger
bride-to-be.
3) Time: Allowing plenty of time for an appointment is key. There is
nothing worse than being rushed or an appointment being abruptly ended.
Our appointments are two hours each, although we allow for an extra half
hour between appointments in case of overrun.
I was contacted by a distraught bride-to-be whose partner of 12 years had
just been diagnosed with a terminal brain tumour. They had not planned
to get married so soon, and had a limited budget. With the help of one of
our suppliers, we managed to secure the dress of her dreams. Our seamstress
gave her services for free and our neighbour, Blue Bee Florist, generously
provided the wedding flowers at a reduced cost. We donated the shoes and
accessories to the bride to complete her look. The morning of the wedding
we dressed the bride and attended the day to prepare her for the evening
reception. It was an extremely emotional, yet rewarding day.
What is the most important piece of advice you’d give to another bridal
Being a specialised bridal boutique, it is hard for me to give advice to
mainstream bridal outlets; however, I would say that when dealing with a
plus-size bride, she should be treated with respect and understanding. Our
ethos is “every bride deserves to look and feel beautiful on her special day
regardless of her size”.
Retailer round-up
Maggie Chadwick, The Wedding Shop
necessary for giving brides the very best experience of
shopping for their wedding dress?
1) To welcome each bride by introducing yourself to her
and her party and explaining that you’ll be looking after
them during their visit. The first impression of the shop and the staff in it
make a lasting impression. If it is warm and friendly and she feels she can
trust you, even if she doesn’t buy that day, it may bring the her back weeks
later to buy her dress.
2) I know it may seem obvious, but having a clean and tidy environment,
with the dresses spaced for easy viewing is essential. We had a bride telling
us the last shop she was in had a bin overflowing with coke cans and a bag of
chips on the desk…not really conducive to the special occasion it’s supposed
to be. We’re constantly cleaning the mirrors and floors so it always looks
fresh, with a big bunch of flowers on the table at the entrance.
3) The third key ingredient would be patience and to take a keen interest
in her. Ask about the venue, where she met her fiancé, honeymoon plans
and so forth. This takes her mind off the fact that she’s standing half naked
with a complete stranger. After the third dress she’ll usually relax and enjoy
the whole process. This also gives her a feeling of trust and she may try on
dresses they would never normally choose because you suggest it.
A bride came in and said she had been let down by a well-known designer
and could we do anything for her. We had a dress made in two weeks and
had a week to fit when it arrived. We even went to the house to dress her as
her mother and bridesmaid lived far away and so had not been shown how
it should be fastened. What’s the most important piece of advice you’d give to a new bridal
It would depend on the experience of the new retailer. Mostly I think it
would be to never assume anything. Indeed, the girl who comes in with
attitude may just be apprehensive. The girl who comes in wearing an old
tracksuit may be an off-duty doctor. Treat everyone who comes through
your door with the same respect, and it will reap its rewards.
Katherine Allen, Katherine Allen Bridal
necessary for giving brides the very best experience
of shopping for their wedding dress?
Firstly, and mostly importantly, it is customer
service, which has to include offering brides a relaxed
atmosphere in which they are given time to make the right choice, together
with attention to detail and no hard sales pitches. This is one of the biggest
decisions they will ever make so it’s important not to put them under too
much pressure. We often tell brides to go away and think about it before
committing and, more often than not, they come back. We pay close
attention to detail and make sure they understand that nothing (or almost
nothing) is too much trouble.
Secondly, you have to actually listen to what the bride wants. We often
get feedback that brides don’t feel shop assistants listen to their wishes
and are just told ‘you look like a princess’ which, for 99 per cent of our
customers, is not a line that works. You have to work with them, not try to
sell them something they don’t want.
Thirdly, you have to have a diverse and fashion-conscious collection.
Most brides these days have done considerable research into the dresses,
know what they want, which designers to look at and where to buy, so if
your collection is out of date and tired they won’t hang around your shop
long enough to try something on, let alone buy!
A lovely bride of ours rather sheepishly told us that she’d put on some
weight leading up to her wedding and, sure enough, her dress was two sizes
too small. She was distraught at the fitting and it was all we could do to
stop her from calling the whole thing off. We convinced her to leave it with
us and after numerous phone calls, we managed to source the same dress
one size larger. Obviously we still needed another couple of inches so our
seamstress replaced the zip with a gorgeous corset back and, hey presto,
the dress was a perfect fit. We could have sent her packing and demanded
payment as it was clearly her fault, but we wanted to help her as much as we
could - she was thrilled and luckily the wedding went ahead as planned!
What’s the most important piece of advice you’d give to a new bridal
Do your research - offer brides something that no one else in the area does,
whether that’s tea from china cups or one-to-one appointments. Have
patience - you will deal with lots of emotions and many indecisive brides.
Change according to your customer - you may need to be a mother, sister,
best friend or all three. Be interested in them - they aren’t just a cash till; get
it right and they are your future years of trading, get it wrong and they are
your closing down sale! $
$77,5(
At Work and Play
The British Bridal Association’s (BBA) Chair, Joe Sweeney, takes a light-hearted look at some of
the memorable moments he has encountered while expanding British bridal exports…
Over the years the BBA
has arranged numerous
exhibitions in British
Embassies across the world,
thereby helping UK bridal
suppliers to improve and
expand their exports. While
the focus has clearly been on commercial gain,
each venue has produced its own hilarious
moments over the years. Below, we share with
you some the lighter moments from these events.
Dublin, Ireland
In Dublin the exhibition was held in a
large hotel complex, rather than in the
British Embassy, for security reasons. We were
delighted to receive a visit from the Ambassador,
who arrived at the exhibition complete with
security guards and two vehicles. Unfortunately,
he was driven to the wrong entrance and had
to run round the outside of the building in the
rain – not quite the dignified arrival he had
originally anticipated!
Chicago, United States
We visited Chicago in October.
Following a lovely reception in the
Consul General’s 22nd floor apartment, we all
went shopping only to find that it really was ‘the
windy city’. We were blown off our feet at every
street corner.
Moscow
1
2
Chicago
Berne, Switzerland
In Berne, I was taking breakfast in the
hotel when the Manager appeared,
informing me that Mrs Williams (the bridal
designer, Ritva) wanted me to go to her room
immediately. The dining room was suddenly
very quiet! In fact, Ritva was feeling unwell and
needed assistance.
Vienna, Austria
On the first of three trips to Vienna
we held the exhibition inside the
Ambassador’s residence which was magnificently
furnished with antique Louis XIV furniture. On
the second day the Ambassador played on the
beautiful Grand Piano and was accompanied by
Karen Taft from Benjamin Roberts – this has
to be one of my most memorable moments at
an overseas exhibition. The Ambassador’s wife
looked after us extraordinarily well and that visit
paved the way for future exhibitions at the same
venue. Vienna holds no less than 500 balls each
season and the Venetians buy large numbers of
ball gowns every year.
3
4
$77,5(
Moscow, Russia
Following the exhibition in Moscow,
we had been invited to the British
Embassy for an evening press reception.
Afterwards, we asked the Embassy staff if we
could book a taxi to the hotel. The Embassy was
on the corner of a major thoroughfare and a girl
from the British Council said she would help
us. She walked out into the roadway and just
pointed at the first car to come along and ordered
it to stop at the kerb, it was a brown Lada. We
thanked the girl but conveyed our concern that it
wasn’t an official taxi. She replied that in Russia
every car is a taxi and will take you anywhere.
We set off for the hotel at a cracking speed with
Phil Collins changing colour rapidly as the driver
sped down the narrow hotel driveway straight
at another car coming the other way. Seconds
before a collision, our driver shot off to the left
and a rather green Phil got out shaking. He’d
been making derogatory comments all along the
journey about the car and the driver only to find
that the driver spoke excellent English and had
understood every word.
The serious side of the Moscow visit showed
that the bridal market in Russia is divided into
two distinct halves. There are those at the bottom
of the social scale who can only afford a really
low priced gown and then there are the mega
rich who will spend a fortune in the few high end
retail shops that have their own security guards.
At the upper end they have to pay in US Dollars
as the shops generally do not want Russian
Roubles. Effectively there is no middle market in
Russia - clients are either extremely poor or very
well off.
Paris, France
Paris was not the easiest place to hold a
bridal exhibition. Frankly, we felt that
although we had good meetings with the staff at
the Embassy, they didn’t really want us to hold
an exhibition in Paris. Instead they encouraged
us to exhibit in the annual bridal exhibition run
by a French trade magazine. This was the only
Embassy where we had a negative response.
5
6
Paris
Madrid, Spain
The trip to the Madrid exhibition was memorable for a side
visit to the Bernabeu Stadium of Real Madrid. We enjoyed a
conducted tour of the grounds, where they had just cut the grass. Despite
plenty of signs warning visitors to keep off the pitch, somehow a handful of
the grass cuttings found their way out of the stadium and distributed among
interested members of the bridal trade.
The main Spanish brand is Pronovias, based in Barcelona, and it
has a large number of its own retail outlets in the south of Spain. The
independent shops are, therefore, mainly in central and northern Spain,
hence the large trade exhibition being held in Madrid.
Athens, Greece
In Athens we held the exhibition in the Gasworks Museum,
surprisingly, an ideal venue. Security was tight, with a permanent
guard holding a large Alsatian dog. Unfortunately, one exhibitor was bitten
on the leg by the dog and had to have treatment at a local pharmacy. When
the exhibition closed all the UK bridal companies were outside, awaiting
transport to the hotel, when the guard came round the corner with his
dog. The same exhibitor took one look at it and climbed up the nearest
lamppost. We had an awful job getting him down again, even after the dog
had gone.
Commercially all the exhibitions produced orders, contacts with local
agents and a continuing boost to British exports. However, we make no
excuse for enjoying the lighter moments as well. $
7
8
Athens
Contact
The British
Bridalwear Association
+44 (0)121 321 3939
www.bbabridalwear.com
Planning
AHEAD
@elliesanderson1
Award-winning retailer, Ellie Sanderson, discusses the intricacies of operational
planning in a rather unusual year.
Like all retailers I spend a lot of time planning
for the year ahead and, therefore, analysing
the key elements of our business activity. This
isn’t just for sales targeting, but also for the
operational needs of my clients. Having your
staff in place ahead of this is key, but not always
easy to achieve. This year for us has been quite
different to the last. Indeed, with two stores in
full swing, mixed with an unusual operational
service pattern (dress fittings and collections), we
have been pushed to the limit. We’ve also seen
a massive change in the sales pattern - those of
you that have been doing this for years will know
there’s never really any rhyme or reason to it but
this year has been even more difficult to predict.
I believe that the Olympic Games has had an
impact, with more weddings in June, August
and September, creating a dip in July. From
conversations with other retailers, many have
experienced a similar pattern to me, and the same
operational challenges.
So, how the heck do bridal retailers cope
when the operational demands peak and trough
so dramatically?
Trading Hours
The first obvious adjustment to coping with a
massive influx and change of activity is to review
trading hours. We usually trade from 10am8pm to service our fittings and collections – we
do this in both stores two day per week. This
does, however, mean that we can’t see brides for
consultations on these days. This year, however,
we have moved our hours to 9am-9pm to
accommodate the sheer volume of fittings, but
even that’s tight. I’m adamant that we won’t
outsource our brides for fittings as I personally
feel you cannot sell a £2,000 wedding dress and
not offer the expected in-house service.
Clearly losing two whole days per week for
fittings and collections has meant that the rest
of the week is under pressure, so we now offer
$77,5(
Tuesday and Thursday late night to ensure that
our clients are still able to come in to buy dresses.
This year, for the first time, we are offering
Sunday appointments during the summer
months – again most unusual.
The key here is having the flexibility in your
core staffing to cope with these changes. We work
shifts all year but even more so at peak times –
this means we can have greater flexibility. We
trade almost 56 hours over six days so it’s a given
that the girls will work shifts – nobody has a 56
hour contract!
Next year’s strategy will see us manage our
operational service very differently. We will move
the entire fitting and collection operation off
site, as the impact fittings and collections have
had on our commercial operation this year has
been significant. Clearly there are massive cost
implications to taking on other premises but I
know that our service level will be improved; our
appointment availability for both service and
selling appointments will be better and our work
space will be calmer. This will be a positive move.
Changing direction with the operational needs
of your business is not always easy. Sometimes
the change can be a shock but anticipating
what’s going to happen before it has happened
is the difference between failure and success. I
track fittings delivered by month as well as sales
achievement. That way I can plan and predict
the requirements of the business in advance.
We all know how difficult it is to recruit good
seamstresses but planning this is critical.
I was talking to a fellow retailer last week who
is about to go through her second Christmas and
we were discussing how busy December is, as
well as the required trading hours. I, therefore,
thought it might be useful to share some more
detailed operational activity throughout the
year with those who have only just started out in
bridal retail.
It’s fascinating to see the following:
Randall Ribbons
Since 1918
A comprehensive selection of hat
trimmings and materials
Flowers & Decorations
Our flowers are available in a wide variety of materials
including polyester, velvet and many more.
Untrimmed Hats
We have a huge selection of untrimmed hats, all
hand made in the UK.
Combs & Bases
We stock the widest range of combs and bases in the UK.
visit our website for all our
products and prices
SERVICE AND OPERATIONAL PATTERNS
75 per cent of fittings are performed
May - September
Five per cent of fittings are performed
January - March
SALES PATTERNS
35 per cent of sales are completed
May - September
40 per cent of sales are completed
January - March
(*source across three bridal retail companies over two years)
The good news is that as bridal retail sales drop in the summer, fittings
increase, meaning team priorities change and vice versa in the winter/
spring.
The real tricky time of year to manage is December, when sales are only
at five per cent of the yearly total and fittings are only at three per cent.
Appointment requests are also low.
I use my own internal Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s) and one key
this identifies is the number of appointments by month and our capacity
levels. I know that December is always low in terms of girls wanting
appointments.
I also know our sales are low in relation to the rest of the year. I know we
don’t have lots of fittings. December is our down time. To be honest it’s our
only down time in an industry that has a fairly constant pattern of activity.
My advice is to take this time to celebrate and chill out. We work less
hours cutting from 55 back to 40 hours and we cut back from six days a
week to five. We close for two whole weeks and we take time to recover. We
paint and refresh the stores, we paint and refresh ourselves and get geared
up for the start of the New Year.
Planning and understanding the operational needs for the business is
critical. Without doing it I would feel like I was chasing a steam roller down
a hill! $
www.randallribbons.co.uk
Tel: +44 (0)1582 721301
Fax: +44 (0)1582 720060
12 Frederick Street, Luton, LU2 7QS, England
Making a memory
Nicola Russill-Roy, PR Director of Propose PR, offers some top tips on how bridal retailers can
hold a successful event.
I’m a firm believer that one of the best ways
to generate good publicity is to hold a truly
fantastic and memorable event. It’s a great
way to impress the industry and, in turn, your
clients as a result of the media coverage your
event will receive. Word of mouth and personal
contact are the two most powerful forces in PR
and are both impossible to create inorganically
– but a successful event can reap both of these
benefits. Not only do people get to know you
and your business, but if the event has the
desired effect, they will be talking about it for
months, even years, to come. So how do you ensure that your event gets
people talking for the right reasons?
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To begin with, give your event a good angle – don’t just throw a party for
the sake of it. Try to tie it in with a national event, a special date that means
something to you or to the industry, an anniversary or birthday. Make sure
you’re clear about your goals too – there’s no point in just throwing an
excellent party for your nearest and dearest if you’re looking to increase your
contacts within the industry, or if you’re trying to reach valued customers.
Think carefully about your guest list and get a few trusted colleagues
to vet it to make sure you haven’t missed anybody. For a non-seated and
ticketed industry event, always over-invite as there are bound to be lastminute drop outs. No matter how promising an event, all it takes is bad
weather, transport problems or illness to leave the room half empty.
Next you want to promote your event. Start with small teasers a few
months before to generate interest. Social media is a fantastic way to do this
as you can drop little hints, perhaps by using visual and interactive media
such as Instagram. Create a hashtag on Twitter to encourage news of your
event to go viral.
Once you’re ready to send out the invitations, continue the promotion
on your website, social media accounts, and send out a targeted press
release to the media representatives you would like to attend. Targeted,
personalised, paper invitations may be costly and time-consuming, but
they’re also well-received, particularly by the press. Commission a talented
designer to create something that reflects your brand and your event. Follow
any non-replies up with a friendly phone call – it breaks the ice and gives
you a better idea of who will be attending.
To host a successful event, you need some gravitas. Even if you’re a
well-known brand, having celebrities or well-known industry professionals
attend your event will increase its popularity, as will brand collaborations.
For example, as a bridal retailer, if you stock a range of gowns from a wellknown bridal designer, ask them to attend your event in person, to associate
their brand with the party. You could even use the event to showcase or
launch new collections and designs. Or perhaps tie the event in with a
charity and donate the proceedings of the evening? In short, there are many
worthy and creative ways to raise the profile of your event.
Using such initiatives will attract local and industry journalists to the
event, which will become more newsworthy with every high-profile guest
you attract. Goodie bags are another effective way of helping your guests to
remember your event long after it’s over, and a great way to tie in with any
brands that are associated with the event. Many will donate a small token
for the goodie bags if the event looks like it will be a success.
The post-event PR is as important as the build-up itself, so book an
exceptional event photographer and brief them thoroughly on the key
moments and guests to snap. You can then distribute the resulting
photographs to key media along with a post-event press release.
Finally, get an events team together to take the pressure off yourself,
and make sure you assign clear roles. One of these roles should be
monitoring social media, last-minute promotion and checking emails and
messages for any last-minute drop out or attendee requests.
There is no quicker way to create a splash with your business than to
host an event that people will remember – just take advantage of the wave
of interest and make the most of every opportunity an event can bring. $
Contact
Propose PR
Tel: +44 (0)20 3286 5992
Twitter: @ProposePR
Web: www.proposepr.com
Collection focus
ɄȵȵȐȃɜȨɄȽ
Focus
Vivien Felstein talks to Attire
Bridal about the launch of
Veromia’s newest collection,
Dress Code, created to
provide women with stylish
mother of the bride wear.
$77,5(
·
Collection focus
When will you be launching your mother of
the bride collection to the trade and what
prompted your decision to expand into this
sector of the bridal market?
We are already selling the collection in our
London showroom. With regards to trade
exhibitions, we will be launching Dress Code
at Moda Woman (stand G12), as well as
showcasing it at the British Bridal Exhibition
in Harrogate (stand C16). We decided that a
mother of the bride range would complement
our current offering so employed the Head
Designer of Frank Usher, Helen Swaine, and
Sales Manager, Avril Bell, to drive the new
brand forward.
How would you describe the debut mother of
the bride collection?
Our collection includes beautiful organza
coats and jackets over little shift dresses,
with a hint of delicate beading. We also have
pastel brocades, stretch dresses and jackets
with smart piping, not forgetting lace styles in
cappuccino and cream.
Who designed the collection, and what
inspired the designs?
Helen Swaine designed the collection and has
taken her inspiration from glamorous women
through the ages.
“The market for stylish
mother of the bride attire has
expanded over the past few
years, and is continuing to
grow. Every woman looks for a
beautiful and striking outfit to
wear for a special occasion.”
These designs chiefly appeal
to women aged 30 upwards,
who are looking for something
a little different from the
occasionwear that’s currently
available.
What do you think sets this collection apart
from other mother of the bride collections?
It has its own signature style so is very different
from what’s currently available. It’s perfect for
many special occasions, for example race
days, but the key focus is firmly on mother of
the bride.
Which designs do you predict will be your
best-sellers and why?
Our two lace styles seem to be selling very well
at present.
What type of customer would these designs
appeal to?
These designs chiefly appeal to women aged
30 upwards, who are looking for something
a little different from the occasionwear that’s
currently available.
How many pieces are in the debut collection
and how often will you be launching new
designs for the range?
The collection has 20-25 dress and jacket,
or dress and coat combinations. We will be
updating the collection for spring/summer and
autumn/winter.
What is the price range of your mother of the
bride gowns and how does this fit with your
other collections?
The collection is very well priced, starting at
around £139 and increasing to £235.
What is your short and long term strategy
for establishing the collection in the UK and
securing quality stockists?
We put considerable research into what the
occasionwear market was lacking, and we
feel we have an excellent offering as a result.
Customers who have already purchased
from the Dress Code collection have been
overwhelmingly positive, so we are confident
we are on the right track.
How would you describe the current market
for mother of the bride attire, and how do you
think this market will develop over next couple
of years?
The market for stylish mother of the bride attire
has expanded over the past few years, and is
continuing to grow. Every woman looks for a
beautiful and striking outfit to wear for a special
occasion. We feel we have achieved this with
Dress Code. $
We decided that a mother
of the bride range would
complement our current
offering so employed the
Head Designer of Frank
Usher, Helen Swaine, and
Sales Manager, Avril Bell, to
drive the brand forward.
Contact
+44 (0)20 8502 2257
www.veromia.co.uk
$77,5(
Ǹɑȵɴ
DAYS
Sisters Lauren Wade and Kelly Merrifield are Co-Directors of a new Essex-based boutique, Mili
Mili Bridal. We quiz Lauren to find out how the pair turned their dream of owning a bridal shop
into reality.
Congratulations on the
launch of MiliMili Bridal –
what inspired you to set up a
bridal boutique and how long
has it taken from the initial
idea, to opening?
Thank you! I always dreamed
of opening a bridal shop but
never had the opportunity
until recently, when I decided to take redundancy from my role as Financial
Advisor at a high street bank. I was due to return from maternity leave, and
felt that my career would no longer fit in with my new family life. This gave
me the impetus to do something completely different. My sister, Kelly, had
just moved to my local area of Colchester in Essex, and was also looking
for a new career direction that would fit around her young daughter. I
suggested that we open a bridal boutique and, after much discussion and
research, we decided to take the plunge.
How did you go about finding the perfect premises?
We decided upon a property in Sir Isaacs Walk, located in the town centre.
Colchester already has a number of wedding dress shops but rather than
seeing this as a negative, we felt that this was a good thing. Our research
showed that people would come to Colchester from all over Essex and the
surrounding counties as it has such a wide choice of bridal wear available.
We spent a good few months viewing premises but there always seemed
to be something not quite right; it was either too big, too small, too
hidden, not enough window space, and so forth. However, when we
walked into number 19, Sir Isaacs Walk, we knew it was perfect. The street
is predominantly made up of independent retailers so we felt we would
complement the existing offering. Many people use this street as a shortcut
between the main high street and the shopping street running in parallel
$77,5(
with it. It, therefore, has a good footfall, and we knew we could make full
use of our window to showcase our beautiful dresses.
How did you officially launch the business?
Mili Mili Bridal officially opened its doors on Saturday 28th April, 2012. We
held an open day event with champagne and cupcakes for all our guests. It
was a really busy day, topped off by our first dress sale!
How have you found the first few weeks of trading?
It’s been hard work, but ever so rewarding. It’s lovely to come to work each
day and enjoy the job. We are learning every day - juggling toddlers and
your own business isn’t easy! The weather over summer has been incredibly
disappointing for the most part, and we definitely noticed a difference in
the volume of shoppers during the torrential downpours. Hopefully the sun
will make an appearance for the rest of the summer!
Which bridal designers are currently stocked at MiliMili Bridal and will
you be welcoming any more names over the coming months?
We currently stock Charlotte Balbier, True Bride and Pure Bridal by
Romantica. We will be expanding our Charlotte Balbier range shortly, as we
await delivery of gowns from her new Romantic Decadence Collection.
We also stock Amanda Wyatt and Charlotte Balbier accessories,
and have recently received an order of beautiful veils by Helen Martin.
They’re handmade in Norfolk and can be tailored according to the bride’s
individual requirements.
What are your future plans for Mili Mili Bridal?
To continue to provide brides with their dream wedding dress and an
amazing customer experience. At some point in the near future, we would
like to stock additional bridal accessories, including a range of fashionforward shoes. $
Contact
Mili Mili Bridal
+44 (0)1206 616 368
www.milimili.co.uk
Prices range
from
£12 - £60
Bridal Hair Accessories Specialists
Tiaras | Vines | Jewellery | Bird Cage Veils
Excellent range – ready for immediate despatch
Wholesale website for ease of ordering
Established for over 20 years
T: 01202 477873 | F: 01202 485220
E: [email protected]
www.blossomwholesale.com
Unit 3 Groveley Road, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 3HB
Profile
Flying High
Following a successful show at The Essential
Collection 2012, we speak to Owner of Phoenix
Gowns, Tian Hong O’Donnell, about what the
future holds for this popular bridal brand.
When was Phoenix Gowns first launched?
I launched Phoenix Gowns in March 2005,
with a view to providing retailers with modern
bridal dresses that use the very latest fabrics and
techniques in the construction.
What tactics have you employed to grow the
bridal business?
Our key tactics have been to ‘walk before we run’
and to build up a client base whilst maintaining
our 100 per cent commitment to giving the
best service. We have been carefully building a
solid, healthy and, above all, reliable service for
stockists since we started trading.
What inspired the latest bridal collections and
which of the gowns do you predict will be best sellers
in the UK?
Our inspiration comes from designing dresses
with a vintage feel but with a modern twist,
using modern fabrics and techniques. I hope that
all of the gowns in this year’s collection will be
received enthusiastically by our stockists as we are
sure that we have designed a collection that will
suit all tastes. We feel very proud of this year’s
range, particularly after the positive reaction we
received at The Essential Collection trade show.
Where are the gowns are designed, made and
finished, and for what reason?
I design the gowns, which are then made and
finished in China. I spend a considerable amount
of time liaising with my Chinese manufacturer,
discussing my designs and overseeing the sample
dresses as they are made. By doing so, I am able
to alter dresses before they are in their final form.
We offer stockists a six week rush cut service,
which has proved invaluable for many of our
clients. In addition, if a customer requires a
bespoke service we can tailor any of our designs
accordingly, with the help of a dressmaker who
works very closely with us. Our ultimate aim is to
ensure that brides are happy, which is obviously
very important to our stockists.
What do you expect will be the key bridal trends
with regards to style, fabric and embellishment for
next season?
I envisage that next season will be all about the
fishtail look, embellished with French lace.
What makes Phoenix Gowns stand apart from
other bridal ranges?
Phoenix Gowns stands apart from other bridal
ranges by being able to offer beautiful dresses
using high end fabrics and finishes, whilst
remaining competitive on price. We use the latest
cutting methods to provide perfectly-fitting
gowns, thereby virtually eliminating the need
for additional alterations. We are proud to be
able to offer our clients the six-week rush cut
service, mentioned previously, as this has proved
extremely popular. We cater for all sizes so brides
with a fuller figure can also wear our gowns.
$77,5( ·
Can bridal retailers see your designs at any trade
shows in the UK?
We will be exhibiting at the British Bridal
Exhibition this September, and have done so for
the past eight years. This has always been a good
event for us, and enables us to meet our stockists
face to face. We also exhibited at The Essential
Collection for the first time this year. This show
gave us the opportunity to showcase our 2013
collection for the first time in the UK, and
exceeded all our expectations.
How do you work with your retail partners to
support sales of your gowns in store?
We support our retail partners by always going
that ‘extra mile’, be that by getting a gown to
them as a matter of urgency or tailoring a dress to
specific requirements.
We do not have a minimum order threshold
and we do not discontinue any of our previous
collections. This is very important for stockists as
they are able to continue to sell any samples they
have previously purchased, without the pressure
of having to meet sales target deadlines on a
certain gown before it is discontinued.
We also support our retail partners by
attending designer days when requested. This
gives our clients the opportunity to ascertain
the degree of interest in our gowns before they
purchase their samples. This has proved a great
help to our clients, especially in these difficult
financial times.
What are your future plans for Phoenix Gowns
and how often do you launch new bridal
collections?
Our primary plan of action is to forge new
retail partnerships, while strengthening the
relationships we have with existing retailers. We
have recently launched a Twitter feed, which
we hope will be a great platform for keeping
retailers informed of our news and events.
We launch a new collection every
summer, and will continue to do so for
Phoenix Gowns
the foreseeable future. $
+44 (0)1689 831 841
Contact
$77,5(
Browse our website
for fabulous wedding
accessories including
swarovski crystals, beads,
charms and bracelets.
tel: 01924 240 947
email: [email protected]
web: www.beadmaster.com
¯:PSRZ
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ACID
Fight for equality
Equal Intellectual Property (IP) rights for
designers – what does it mean and why
is it necessary? CEO of Anti Copying in
Design, Dids Macdonald, reveals more.
Should a product designer have less intellectual
property (IP) protection than an artist? Does
it seem fair that a packaging designer or a
stationery designer (2d design) can rely on
copyright protection for approximately 25 years
and yet a jewellery designer (3d design) who
relies on unregistered design right cannot?
In the UK, a designer relying on unregistered
rights has only five years before someone else
can apply for a reasonable licence to reproduce
the product (it’s even less time in Europe, only
three years).
A registered design, on the other hand, offers
protection for 25 years and an EU registration
in 27 member states. Design registration, whilst
not cost prohibitive, is only as good as having the
budget for timely and effective enforcement if
infringement occurs.
In extreme copyright cases it is possible to take
criminal action and for copyists to be landed
with a criminal record or a prison sentence, and
yet those relying on unregistered and registered
design rights can only take civil action.
Who can measure the innovative input
between an artist and a product designer, and
why shouldn’t it be the same? That is why we are
calling for equal rights for designers!
Copyright and design right are both property
rights. Intellectual Property is, quite simply,
the generic description for trade marks,
patents, copyright and design right, and other
information property rights. Intellectual
Property (IP) rights are about ownership and
giving someone else permission to use those
rights. In the same way that you own a house
or rent a home, you will have a piece of paper/
agreement or title deeds which authorise use. IP
rights are exactly the same – it’s all about gaining
permission to use someone else’s property.
If the disparity between rights seems unfair
to you – then read on and take action! ACID
(Anti Copying in Design) has been campaigning
to government for over a decade to obtain
equality of rights for all designers. After a long
and difficult road, we are finally gaining ground
and we are in continuing and very positive talks
with government.
An impact assessment has now been completed
and the next stage is for a full government
consultation into equality of rights for designers.
ACID, through its membership of the Alliance
of IP Theft, has secured this as a key campaign
objective to maintain its position on the
government radar.
ACID’s Chief Legal Counsel, Nick
Kounoupias of accredited law firm DMH
Stallard, has submitted the legal case for parity
of rights and has been a tireless supporter of
the campaign objective from the basis that we
have a robust legal argument. The fight is not
yet won but ACID would like to thank all of its
supporters, media supporters, trade association
partners and members for their support.
Designers – a call to action!
Do you know a design buyer who does not
comply with IP law? Tell us and we will write to
them offering helpful guidelines.
Do you know design buyers who do comply
with IP law and with whom you want to work?
CONTACT
Visit the ACID
website
www.acid.uk.com
Tell us and we will shout about them.
Do you supply to independent retailers who
support original design? Tell us and we will
invite them to become one of our independent
retail supporters
The Voluntary Code of Conduct, together
with a simple set of industry standard guidelines
for design buyers to avoid unintentional
infringement, aims to help businesses with IP
compliance in the workplace to ensure that
employees are not illegally copying original
design. Sometimes this can happen inadvertently
because of a lack of knowledge of current design
law. Further information about how to join our
campaign, sign up to the Code of Conduct and
the Design Buyers’ Guidelines can be found on
our website www.acid.uk.com
Whilst the majority of retailers support and
respect design origination, there are some retail
design buyers who do not! With the recent
emergence of a stream of look-alike designs,
never has there been a better time for all design
buyers to put their full weight behind British
designers and join ACID’s Commission it, Don’t
Copy it! campaign. The campaign aims to garner
support from the UK’s major high street chains
and independent retailers to commission original
designs and never to produce lookalikes. $
$77,5(
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Retail technology
New EU
cookie rules
- Part 1 -
In the first part of his new series, David Mackley looks at cookies and the different types
available, and provides a guide to the new Cookie Law introduced on 26th May, 2012.
If you own a website then you should be aware
of the new Cookie Law introduced on 26th May,
2012. This is part of a set of regulations intended
to protect people’s privacy, and impacts on all
owners of websites that use cookies.
The rules have caused much debate in the online community, as businesses try and interpret
their meaning. Many commentators say that the
guidance seems to be intentionally vague and
leaves many questions unanswered. Nevertheless,
it is up to the business owner how they interpret
the rules and determine the appropriate course
of action.
Where do these new regulations
come from?
The new rules on the use of cookies are driven
by the European Union and enforced by the
Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) in
the UK. They can be found at
www.ico.gov.uk (search for cookies).
Put simply, the spirit of the legislation is that
visitors should actively choose to receive cookies
as opposed to just having them dropped in. In
some cases a clear and comprehensive notice
about the cookies used will be sufficient, in
other cases the user must opt-in before a cookie
is installed. Does this mean millions of websites
suddenly switching to an opt-in approach? All
with pop-up boxes to explain which cookies
are used and why? It sounds like an irritating
interruption that will put a lot of people off
visiting completely harmless websites.
Another challenge is that few consumers will
know what they are opting in to. The ICO’s own
research indicates that consumer understanding
of cookies is very limited. In 2011, from
1,000 individuals asked, only 13 per cent were
confident they understood what they were. The
issue here is that a consumer will not know what
a cookie is and they will not know what they are
opting in to. The ICO hopes that the cumulative
“Visitors should actively choose to receive cookies as opposed
to just having them dropped in. In some cases a clear and
comprehensive notice about the cookies used will be sufficient,
in other cases the user must opt-in before a cookie is installed.”
effect from all these websites informing users
about cookies will raise awareness of the issue.
Penalties
The ICO has powers from the Data Protection
Act that allows for fines of up to £500,000 where
serious breaches are “likely to cause substantial
damage or distress” (remember, this is the stated
maximum penalty).
EConsultancy says in its April 2012
whitepaper that organisations that are actively,
diligently and demonstrably “seeking to comply”
with their legal obligations are unlikely to
be fined, despite having not achieved all the
requirements. This caveat is unlikely to last
beyond 2012 and should not be relied upon as
a legal defence. So whilst there could be a ‘do
nothing’ approach to this, it would be advisable
to begin the compliance process.
Sadly though, retailers will undoubtedly
receive emails from unscrupulous organisations
looking to make a quick buck by using the
$77,5( ·
£500,000 figure to potentially scare them into
buying unnecessary products or services.
In addition, Dave Chaffey, the UK internet
marketing guru who writes and lectures on
matters such as cookies, said that the ICO in this
case, is not expecting instant compliance even
after 26th May, 2012. Although not strictly legal,
you are unlikely to be prosecuted provided that
you are seen to be ‘moving towards compliance’.
What is a cookie?
A cookie is a small file of letters and numbers
downloaded on to a device when the user
accesses certain websites. Cookies do lots of
different jobs, like letting you navigate between
pages efficiently, remembering your preferences,
and generally improve the user experience. They
are used with most shopping carts. They can also
help to ensure that adverts you see on-line are
more relevant to you and your interests.
There are different kinds of cookies that have
varying levels of ‘intrusiveness’. Whilst the
ICO regulations define these different types,
businesses have found it hard to understand
which cookies fall into which categories. A more
business focused guide that bridges the gap
between the legalistic ICO regulations and the
need of business owners to understand what to
do is available from the International Chambers
of Commerce (ICC) and is certainly worth a
read. The ICC’s guide places cookies into four
separate categories:
Targeting or advertising cookies
Have you ever noticed when ads follow you
around the internet? They do this by collecting
information about your browsing habits and
then serve up targeted ads. Not only do these
cookies remember which websites you have
been to, they sometimes share this information
with other organisations such as advertisers.
One thing to be careful of is that you may not
have intentionally put this type of cookie onto
your website, they are often produced by a third
$77,5(
“A cookie is a small file of letters and numbers downloaded on
to a device when the user accesses certain websites. Cookies
do lots of different jobs, like letting you navigate between
pages efficiently, remembering your preferences, and generally
improve the user experience. They are used with most
shopping carts.”
party. For example, you may have a deal with an
advertising company and the cookie is put on
your website as part of that deal.
What to do: These cookies are highly likely to
require explicit consent from users before they
are used, so it is likely you would need an opt-in
facility on your website.
Performance cookies
These collect anonymous information about
how visitors use a website, for example which
pages are visited. The ICC includes analytics,
advertising and pay-per-click cookies in
this category – provided the information is
anonymous and can’t be used for behavioural
targeting of ads.
Functionality cookies
These allow the website to remember choices the
user makes, such as your user name, language or
the region you are in, and provide more personal
features. For instance, a website may be able to
provide local weather reports or traffic news by
storing in a cookie the region in which the visitor
is located.
What to do: Depending on the nature of the
cookie, you may want to ask for consent before
the cookie is used and/or amend wording on
your site to clearly communicate the use of these
cookies to all users.
Strictly necessary cookies
These are probably the least significant of the
categories. They are related to a service provided
on the website that has been explicitly requested
by the user. These are often used in shopping
carts for the tracking of movement between
pages in the website. For example, if a website
shopper adds items into their basket, then they
navigate to other pages before going back to the
basket again, they will expect the items to stay in
their basket. The cookie will enable this feature.
These cookies tend to destroy the information
they have saved when a browser session ends
so are not stored long term. Therefore they are
considered less intrusive. The ICC says that user
consent is not usually required for this category
of cookie. However, the website should clearly
state that they are being used.
In the next issue we look at what actions you
can and should take to move towards compliance
as well as a look at the debate on analytics
cookies. $
Contact
David Mackley MBA BSc is MD of
Intelligent Retail – providers of
Multichannel EPoS and eCommerce
websites for independent retailers.
If you have any questions you can
contact David on
+44 (0)845 680 0126 or
[email protected]
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Just Out
Introducing… ǸɑǸ4ȨǸ
Amanda Bradwell, Director of The Eternity Group, chats to Attire Bridal about a new plus size
range that will minimise alterations for retailers, and thrill curvy brides.
What prompted you to introduce a plus size range,
and why this year in particular? We had discussed introducing a plus size range for
the past couple of seasons, and spent time talking
to our clients about their requirements. Indeed, the
main reason we launched Cara Mia was to help our
retailers — the dresses have a slightly larger waistline
than our regular size chart so should reduce the
number of in-store alterations, thereby saving our
stockists time and money.
What is the size and price range of the new gowns? The dresses range from a US size14-28, with the prices in keeping with our
regular styles.
Are the Cara Mia designs based on any of your existing bridal designs? If
so, how have they been adapted for plus size?
We asked our clients what they were looking for in a plus size range and, as
a result of the feedback, we created five bridal gowns that will flatter curvy
brides. Design features include asymmetric pleating, beading placements
to enhance necklines, and lace up backs to emphasise the waist. The dresses
have increased boning and structure to make the bride feel her very best.
What fabrics/embellishments have been used in the collection and why? The main fabrics used in the gowns are satin and taffeta as per our regular
bridal collections. They are the most desired fabrics for all bridalwear.
How often do you plan to introduce new styles? The Eternity Group produces two collections per year, so Cara Mia will
follow suit.
How do you see the market for plus size gowns developing over the
coming years? Cara Mia is a small collection that fills a gap in our retailers’ stores. Any new
collection is developed in consultation with our stockists. $
Contact
Cara Mia
+44 (0)8707 707 670
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We offer a fast, reliable and friendly service on our continually increasing range
(currently over 3,500 choices) of bridal fabrics, embroidered and beaded edgings,
motifs and accessories.
Range includes: plain and shot taffeta, velvet, duchess satins, organzas, chiffons, crepes,
laces, brocades, various embroidered and
beaded fabrics, inc tulles and chiffons.
Our range of dress accessories now
exceeds 600 articles including many
brooches and buckles with crystals.
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Sample a World of Bridal Fabric from
Quality Silks, Taffeta’s, Lace
and Satin’s
Occasion Wear, Dress Making, Tailoring
Haberdashery, Ribbon,
Sewing Accessories
Telephone (0115) 926 3154 or Visit
www.millcrofttextiles.co.uk
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ɑȨȇǸȵ
To advertise here call
+44 (0)1376 535612
or visit www.attirebridal.com
Websites
The importance of Twitter,
Facebook, blogs and YouTube
SiteWizard’s Barbara Aspin explains the
vital part that social media networking
can play in your e-tail business.
Imagine the scenario – you have a website that
looks good and shows who you are, what you
do and where you do it; but for some reason the
amount of traffic going to it just isn’t what you
were expecting and the phone isn’t ringing off the
hook. What went wrong?
Just having a website these days isn’t enough,
but there are things that you can do to increase the
amount of traffic to your site for little or no cost.
Here is a checklist to help encourage Google to list
your website higher in its rankings.
Twitter
Did you know around half of the 100
million active users of Twitter log into their
accounts at least once a day? That’s a lot of people
reading their Twitter feeds. This kind of exposure
allows for mass B2B and B2C communication all
over the world. Twitter is the perfect channel for
businesses to reach wider audiences – it just takes
an investment of time, and absolutely no money!
The most obvious use for Twitter is of course, to
network. This may be through following existing
clients and keeping them updated with short and
sweet tweets, following potential clients and target
markets, or simply by commenting on the latest
trending topics.
However, when used appropriately Twitter can
help guide vast amounts of traffic to your website;
opening your business up to a much wider online
audience. Incorporate this with your search engine
keywords and Meta tags, and things could get all
the more exciting.
Placing a Twitter feed on your website is a
fantastic way to link together your Twitter account
and website, whilst making Google very happy.
Showing that you’re regularly updating your
website and that you’re serious about your business
helps boost your position in Google.
To get others interacting – and to prove
Blogs
you’re not a robot – it is best to open up your
tweeting options and not to focus purely on your
own business. If you have a question you need
answering, or have just heard a fact that you
think others will find interesting or useful, tweet
about it. If you come across an article to do with
your industry, post a hyperlink to it in a tweet,
accompanied by a short description of
what the article is about. If a similar business
to yours posts some interesting statistics about
the relevant industry, retweet it. Or better yet,
start a discussion about the statistics and what
impact they may have on the industry, by trending
#hashtag topics worldwide.
Why not push the boat out more and invest a little
time – again, not money – in writing a blog? You
can make links between your Twitter, blog and
website by promoting connections to each one.
Create a short tweet about your latest blog
entry with a hyperlink to the blog, or write a blog
post about your brand new Twitter account and
encourage people to take a look around.
Another way to encourage movement of traffic
from one location to another is to hold incentive
competitions. Ask your followers for their opinions
about your blog content, or perhaps what their views
are on your flashy new website; all for a chance to be
entered into a competition to win prizes.
$77,5( ·
“Did you know around half of
the 100 million active users of
Twitter log into their accounts
at least once a day? That’s
a lot of people reading their
Twitter feeds. This kind of
exposure allows for mass B2B
and B2C communication all
over the world.”
Facebook
If you have a Facebook page for your business,
then make sure that you include the link from your
website to your page; if you don’t have a Facebook
page then get one created – it’s free to do so. The
more people that you can get to ‘like’ it the better,
as yet again this will improve your Google position.
Schedule updates (you can pre-plan these via a
free service called Hootsuite, which also works
for Twitter and LinkedIn). Ensure that you have
a decent timeline photo as well, as this will entice
people to look further.
YouTube
Include videos on your website that you have
created using your own YouTube channel. The
videos could be a slideshow of your product and
store images. The main thing is that the video has a
title and a description containing search words that
you would like to be found in Google. Remember
to include a link back to your website in your
video description. If you use Google Chrome as
your internet browser, videos often come up in
search results therefore offering the chance of more
people finding out about your business and then
linking to your website.
Trade Association Links
If you are a member of a trade association, then
it is important that you include a link from your
website to theirs as Google ‘likes’ websites that
are affiliated with membership organisations and
websites that it deems as authoritative.
Google Places
Have your website listed in Google Places under
as many search terms as you can think of e.g.
$77,5(
“Another way to encourage
movement of traffic from
one location to another is to
hold incentive competitions.
Ask your followers for their
opinions about your blog
content, or perhaps what their
views are on your flashy new
website; all for a chance to be
entered into a competition to
win prizes.”
take a look at the design or content on your home
page. A bounce rate is the number of visitors to
your website that don’t go further than the home
page of your website.
Google analytics does require your website to
store ‘cookies’. Cookies are a type of file that is
stored on the user’s internet surfing device that
make the shopping experience easier, as the cookie
remembers details. One way to see how you could
carry this out is by visiting www.cookielaw.org.
We have a free guide available to every Attire
Bridal reader on how to install Google Analytics
and also how to get the best out of it – please visit
www.SiteWizard.co.uk/attire.
bridal shop Kent/bridal shop Maidstone/fashion
accessories Maidstone/bridal stores Kent, bridal
stores Maidstone etc. The more that you cover
for your area, the better; so really think about the
services that you provide, and check to see if there
is a Google Places listing for that search area.
Another important consideration is to find out
how much traffic your website is generating; what
visitors are typing in to find your site and if they
like what they see when they get there. One way
of finding this out is to have Google Analytics or
something similar installed. It really is important
to know if the website that you have is actually
working for you. Google Analytics has a feature
called a bounce rate and if you are looking at the
figures for the home page of your website and the
bounce rate is over 50 per cent, then you need to
Barbara Aspin is the Business Development
Manager at SiteWizard.co.uk. She has 10 years
of experience within the website design industry.
SiteWizard has been trading for 15 years, and has
designed websites for thousands of companies.
If you have any questions regarding anything in
this article, or if you would like more information
regarding SiteWizard, contact the company by
calling +44 (0)845 060 8860 or visit the website
www.sitewizard.co.uk/attire. $
Contact
Barbara Aspin
+44 (0)1622 200 045
[email protected]
$77,5( Online
ɑȨȇǸȵ
Featuring excellent usability, easy navigation and bags of content,
www.attirebridal.com is updated daily to ensure you’re in touch
with the latest industry news and trends.
Download our latest issue, free of charge online. Those working
within the bridal retail trade can register to receive free regular
copies of the magazine.
LɤɉɉȵȨȐɑȨɑȐȃɜɄɑɴ
Improved supplier directory, enabling instant access
to 100s of bridal suppliers.
ǸȃȰ$ɕɕɤȐɕ
Every issue of Attire Bridal is now available to
download from our Back Issues Archive.
PɬȨɜɜȐɑ
Live Twitter feed, giving you
real-time industry updates from
www.twitter.com/attirebridal.
If you would like to find out more, log onto
$77,5(
$77,5(
Twitter 7ZLWWHU
WEB WATCH
Total num
ber of
followers
:
3500
Attire Bridal is at the very heart of the online
bridal community. Here’s a quick update to
what’s been going on…
SHORT AND TWEET
One of Attire Bridal’s many followers, Emma Draper, talks to us about
how Twitter helped her, even before her bridal boutique opened…
Name: Emma Draper
Company Name: Love Bridal Boutique
Follow me at: @love_bridal
When did you set up a Twitter account and
what prompted you to do so?
At the time of writing this our boutique wasn’t even trading (launching
August 2012!), but we felt it was important to get our social media
platforms set up well before we opened to spread the word amongst
future brides, businesses in the local Cheshire and Manchester
community and our wedding friends. My husband (wedding
photographer Jonny Draper @jonnydraperfoto) and I set up our Twitter
account on 23rd May, 2012 and within just five weeks we welcomed over
300 followers.
Has your new business benefited as a result? If so, how?
Brides have already been in touch with us and we have our first bookings
in the diary! We’ve also been introduced to other like-minded businesses
who we can collaborate with in the future.
How often do you tweet and what do you tweet about?
We tweet as often as we can, several times a day as a minimum! It can
simply be to tell people about what we’re up to with the boutique, or it
could be to ask our contacts for recommendations for a specific supplier.
What advice would you give to first-time tweeters?
Be true to yourself and your personality; there’s nothing worse than
meeting somebody and they’re nothing like their twitter alter-ego. Tweet
about things that are relevant to the industry you’re working in, but don’t
be afraid to tweet about things that are just topical at that time, that’s an
even better way of building up your contacts.
Which bridal companies do you enjoy following on Twitter?
We love to follow our own designers so we’re completely in tune with
what they are doing as a brand, but also we’d be lost without tweets from
the likes of @LoveMyDressBlog @Bridesupnorth @styallodge and
@heatonhousefarm
\ȐǸɑȐȽɄɬȘɄȵȵɄɬȨȽȝѰ
This month on Twitter we have mainly been:
i Announcing exhibitors already signed up to The Essential
Collection 2013
i Posting video links from the catwalk at The Essential
Collection 2012
i Welcoming many more followers
i Retweeting all the latest industry news
\ȐȵȃɄȹȐɜɄɄɤɑ
ȽȐɬȐɕɜȘɄȵȵɄɬȐɑɕѰ
@miasolanobridal
@LochDress
@LeonieCBridal
Bridal brand,
Mia Solano
Scottish dress designer,
Mary Wood
Central Brighton
bridal shop
@VillageBridesLC
@gilingandwhite
@EssentialColl
Cotswold-based
bridal shop
New bridal boutique
Bridal trade show
taking place every July
Bridal brand
Bridal retailer
Videographer
@AlfredAngelo
Alfred Angelo
@CliffordBurr1
Clifford Burr in Ware
@JSPVid
JSPV
$77,5(
LɤǾɕȃɑȨǾȐ
online
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PɄɉұɑȐǸɕɄȽɕɜɄɕɤǾɕȃɑȨǾȐ
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Brands focusing on the UK
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$77,5(
ɑȨȇǸȵ
ISSUE 32
November/December 2012
Available from: 29th October, 2012
Advertising deadline: 12th October, 2012
Lily Bella Bridal
@ȵɤɕ
Business advice
News and events
Collection focus
$77,5(
First Year
in Retail
Bridal retailer, Rebecca Doyle, reflects on the
changes she’s made since she launched
Isabella Grace Bridal almost one year ago.
Well, here we are, nearly at the
end of our very first year in
retail, and what a perfect time to
reflect on the past 12 months.
The Team
I am so happy that, apart from
one Saturday consultant who left for a full time
role, I still have my original team with me. And
what a team they are: being a mum of four-yearold twins and running my other business, Chez
Bec, alongside Isabella Grace, I honestly couldn’t
do without them. We have become a close-knit
group and it’s been wonderful to see each team
member flourishing over the last 12 months.
The Dresses
Starting a new business during the worst financial
crisis since records began hasn’t been easy. We’ve
had to think on our feet and not be afraid to
make changes to our working practices, when
required. Our designers have changed — we still
have two of our original four, but we have added
four new ones to the mix: Enzoani, Martina
Liana, Nicola Anne and the LM diffusion
collection by Lusan Mandongus. We’re also
thrilled to announce that we will be stocking the
fabulous new So Sassi collection by Sassi Holford
from September. These changes have and will
continue to allow us to keep our dresses fresh and
immaculate for our brides.
“When we opened last September,
we wanted brides to have exclusive
use of the boutique during their
appointments. However, within a
month of opening, we had a six-week
waiting list for a Saturday appointment
so I had to change my ethos.”
$77,5(
The Size
When we opened last
September, we wanted
brides to have exclusive use
of the boutique during their
appointments. However,
within a month of opening,
we had a six-week waiting
list for a Saturday appointment so I had to
change my ethos. By December we had created
a second, private fitting suite and, as a result,
doubled our appointment capacity. I thought
this would be enough to accommodate all of
our brides, but it seems not. We’re still fully
booked on Saturdays, as well as some weekdays
throughout the summer, so will be expanding
again! Celebrating our six-month anniversary
was a real milestone. I know they always say
that time flies when you’re having fun (and
busy!) but it really went by in the blink of an
eye. Six months seemed like the right time to
do a complete business evaluation and, with the
British Bridal Exhibition in Harrogate falling
just after our six-month anniversary, in March, it
worked out perfectly.
The Brides
We’re not, and have never strived to be, a
wedding factory. We’re a boutique and proud of
our offering. We welcome hundreds of brides,
rather than thousands, into our boutique and this
enables us to offer the personalised service our
brides value. Word-of-mouth recommendations
have been key to our growth and we put great
effort into nourishing our relationship with each
bride individually. That’s not to say that all of our
brides have been easy — we’ve had our fair share
of bridezillas and mothers-from-hell — but I’m
happy to say that the lovely ones far outweigh the
difficult ones!
The Parties
We opened with a fabulous launch party on 5th
September, 2011. This was followed by a ‘Brides
Night In’ accessories party in November, and six
designer weekends between November, 2011 and
August, 2012. We had originally scheduled 12
months of other events but there simply haven’t
been enough hours in the day to bring them to
fruition. It’s something at the top of my to-do
list for year two! We’re hosting a week full of
birthday celebrations and promotions at the start
of September to celebrate our first year.
The Low Points
Other than major supply issues with one
designer, which resulted in the termination of
the business relationship, there haven’t been any
low points. Running a bridal boutique isn’t the
bed of roses that some imagine, but I went into
this business with a wealth of industry experience
and knowledge, and I’m not afraid of hard work.
Nothing beats seeing the smile on a bride’s face
when you find her the dress of her dreams. $
Contact
Isabella Grace Bridal
www.isabellagracebridal.com