IN CONVERSATION WITH… JUSTIN WARSHAW
Justin Warshaw on the importance of Rome Bridal Week
Expected to be a vital and vibrant player in the 2025 bridal exhibition arena, Rome Bridal Week, taking place from 16-18 March at Fiera di Roma, is setting the stage for success not only with the important 'Made in Italy' collections, but also the key international names that attract a big audience.
Justin Warshaw of multi award-winning house Justin Alexander, with its portfolio of five design-driven brands and a global network of 2,000 retailers, talked to us about the industry today, the value of the right exhibition environment, and his reason to making Rome Bridal Week a focus for 2025.
"The exclusive feel and intimacy of the event play a significant role," says Justin. "The carefully curated environment allows for meaningful interactions between designers, retailers, and industry professionals, building strong relationships and collaborations. The location in Rome adds a unique charm and allure. Rome's rich history, culture and elegance provide the perfect backdrop for showcasing bridal fashion, enhancing the overall experience for attendees.
"The high-quality exhibitors and diverse international participation ensure that the event remains fresh and exciting each year. This diversity brings a wealth of perspectives and styles, making it a must-visit for anyone in the bridal industry.
"Trade shows are invaluable for expanding our network. Exhibitions are about creating and building relationships, gaining insights, and growing our network. Rome Bridal Week is crucial for raising awareness and attracting new retailers. It provides a unique platform to showcase our latest collections and innovations to a broad audience of industry professionals, helping to build our brand's reputation and appeal. Italy is a key market for us in Europe and Rome's international draw makes it a key event for us in 2025."
Exhibitions remain a crucial aspect of the bridal business today, both for exhibitors and visitors. The Justin Alexander Group of brands are featured at some 25 trade exhibitions per year to reach local buyers. "Retailers increasingly value dedicated time and attention from suppliers, which can be more effectively achieved through smaller, more intimate events or one-on-one meetings. This shift allows for deeper connections and tailored experiences, ultimately benefiting both retailers and suppliers," says Justin.
At RBW, the five core brands – Justin Alexander, Justin Alexander Signature, Adore by Justin Alexander, Lillian West, Sincerity, each catering to the diverse tastes and preferences of brides, will have a dynamic presence. In addition, the Thanks & Goodluck Accessories line allows brides to personalise their look.
The priority is to maintain strong, personalise communication with both retailers and brides. The Rome show is central to that!
Breaking news is that the company is planning an exclusive, invitation-only evening event in RBW that promises to be spectacular, marking the debut of its spring/summer 2026 collections.
"While we want to keep the details a surprise for now, our goal is to entertain and captivate our retail partners on a global scale," says Justin. "We will be inviting our top partners, media, and global influencers to join us. We are excited about the creative execution of this event and look forward to sharing more details as our plans are finalised!"
27-11-2024
