There are so many awards around for people in the wedding industry these days – in fact I’ve been asked to join the juding panels of some of them. But honestly, before this, none of them really interested to me.
First and foremost the goal of the award is not to simply pat established brands on the back. The idea is to use industry connections the organisers already have to elevate a brand new designer in the wedding industry and give them opportunities they might not otherwise get. The winners won’t just be presented with a gong, they’ll be offered an impressive platform to launch themselves.
I’m all about supporting emerging talents and so I jumped at the chance to be on this judging panel… and I’m being joined by an impressive group of industry experts. Peta Hunt, fashion editor of You & Your Wedding Magazine, Rachel Atwell, owner of swanky London wedding boutique Luella’s Boudoir, Sara Smyth of online bridal boutique Ruby + Diva and Hazel Holtham of vintage store Rag and Bow. The winner we select will then have their creations stocked at both Luella’s and Ruby + Diva as well as featured in a future Most Curious Party styled photo shoot.
The entries will all be given a stand at the A Most Curious Wedding Fair in London on October 6th and the rest of the panel and I will be there to check them all out and pick our winner.
“We are looking for inspiring and innovative contemporary designers, fashion enthusiasts, ateliers, crafters, artists and creatives who would like to showcase their products and services to the coolest brides and grooms”, says organiser Rebecca. “Applicants do not have to have studied or be studying in their field, but if they are a graduate they need to have graduated between 2010 and 2012, not before. Or, if they have gone that step further and started their business already, it needs to have been established no more that 18 months ago. We are dedicated to keeping Bridal NEXT! a platform for those truly starting out in their creative careers.”
“With your entry please provide a minimum of 3 images of your work, ideally work that best reflects your vision for your brand”, she advises. “You must also be able to commit to presenting finished products at a stand at the show in London on October 6th. Your designs can be fashion, illustration, digital, textile, art, millinery, jewellery, shoes – as long as it could find a place in the world of weddings we want to hear from you. Surprise us!”
The deadline to apply for Bridal NEXT! is the 10th September 2012. Apply using the online application form. All successful applicants will be mentioned in the preliminary press for the wedding fair itself including a logo on the fair’s homepage.
So, if you’re brand new to this crazy industry of ours then get those entries in! I look forward to meeting some exciting new designers on 6th October.
