Every bride - and certified wedding and event coordinator - knows about the importance of attending local bridal shows to meet vendors and check out the newest wedding trends. But the International Bridal Fashion Exhibition takes the world of bridal shows to a whole other level. The exhibition was recently held in Spain, and the four-day wedding-fashion fair brought together 132 companies and brands to represent the best ideas in bridal gowns, groomwear and formal attire for the upcoming 2011 season. We may be just now entering wedding season in America, but the international market is already looking ahead. And when it comes to running your own business - like so many of LWPI’s graduates are - looking ahead is always a good thing.

About 3,600 hundred people attended the event, and 28 designers presented their collections. The companies that participated are already reporting favorable business results, saying they have expanded their portfolios and are already building relationship with potential new buyers. This all means that the 2011 wedding season is already looking up, which is good news for wedding professionals all across the world.

The collections shown at the international event indicate that organza, gauzy fabrics and exquisite lacework are some of the trends that will dominate wedding fashion in 2011. Textured fabric is also expected to be hot, with silk garza and satin leading the way. Bright whites appear to be less popular for 2011, while natural shades - bone whites and light beiges - will lead the way.

The event also put a focus on the whole wedding, showing that weddings are no longer a one-day event. “Weddings have moved beyond the basics. These days families with good spending power look forward to a wedding that’s truly memorable, extravagant and encompasses the luxuries of life,” said Qatar Expo CEO Mr. Karim Zarka. “IWED 2010 brings together all the options that make a wedding complete. Be it wedding designers, honeymoon destinations, gifts, chocolates, beauty or wedding venues, IWED 2010 offers everything to organize your dream wedding with ease.”

Tags: bride, fashion, wedding

Did you enjoy this article? If so, please subscribe to my blog!