20th bridal show promises variety

IT’S the show every bride-to-be looks forward to in anticipation. The NWJ Bridal & Events Show is KZN’s premier show held at the Durban Exhibition Centre from 7-9 March, which draws thousands of brides-to-be and their girlfriends with its smorgasbord of gorgeous displays of decor, fashion, make-up, accessories, stationery and service providers.

For bridesmaids, it’s also the go-to place for fun ideas and supplies for hen’s night parties.

This year the NWJ Bridal and Events Show turns 20, and promises more variety to draw inspiration from, including Africa and Asia. On show will be an eclectic collection of more than 100 top operators, many of which will be offering exclusive show specials.

One such exhibitor is A2Z Décor, who boasts an extensive collection of wedding décor. This Durban-based exhibitor has the largest range of traditional African decor in Kwa-Zulu Natal. “When brides come to me, they don’t have to look back home for the goods to decorate their weddings with; they can just put it in the back of the van and go,” said owner-operator Ingrid.

Jasmins, the family run business, is the first and longest standing bridal store in Durban. Established in 1972, the previously run cosmetics store was converted into a bridal wonderland after receiving many enquiries about wedding gowns. Today, Jasmins boasts over 200 styles of dresses modelled on leading fashion trends from the Middle East, Europe and the United States. Each year the innovative business adds 150 new dresses to its collection. It’s no wonder Zanele Mbokazi chose not just one, but two dresses from Jasmins for her wedding.

The Windmill Resort will be on show this year to demonstrate why it has been awarded, for the second time, the ABIA Bride’s Choice Award for best coastal boutique hotel. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Crane Private Game Reserve, its mix of modern comfort and country charm includes luxury lodges, cozy fireplaces, private Jacuzzi’s and personal chefs. The hotel also scooped the ABIA Bride’s Choice title for best in-house wedding planner.

The NWJ Bridal & Events Show might be filled to the brim with romantic locations, dreamy dresses and a list of service providers to make your heart sing, but show visitors can also expect a bit of naughty fun too. Man International will put on a performance which promises to make you blush! Furthermore a world-class fashion show will feature high-end designers, the latest trends and the perfect opportunity to taste-test champagne while haute couture floats by.

And if that isn’t enough, brides can take advantage of the new ticket pricing. For just R90 visitors will be able to return to the show throughout the weekend, as many times as they wish. Standard tickets cost R70 and can be purchased through CompuTicket or at the door.

WIN

FIVE lucky Berea Mail readers can win double tickets to the NWJ Bridal and Events Show. SMS BMBRIDAL to 42910 (cost R1.50) or email wandad@dbn.caxton.co.za and put NWJ Bridal Show in the subject line, along with your name and contact number. The competition will run from Thursday, 27 February and will close on 6 March at 10am. Winners will be contacted telephonically. Tickets will be collected at the door on the day of the show.