Being a Judge at the Bridal Awards

Last year, Bridal Buyer Magazine  invited me to join the judging panel for the Bridal Buyer Awards, often described as the Oscars of the bridal industry.

I was absolutely delighted.

I regularly contribute articles to Bridal Buyer, but judging the awards felt like a real honour. Earlier in my career, I entered these awards myself – sometimes winning, sometimes not – so stepping behind the scenes as a judge felt like a completely new experience. (You can read more about my journey in the bridal industry here.)

Since then, I have also returned as a judge for the 2025 Bridal Buyer Awards, which made the experience even more special.

Why the Bridal Buyer Awards matter in the bridal industry

The BMany people regard the Bridal Buyer Awards as one of the most respected bridal industry awards in the UK and internationally.

The judging process sets these awards apart. Unlike many wedding industry awards, the organisers do not decide winners through public voting or popularity. Instead, an experienced panel of industry judges carefully reviews every entry.

Each judge independently assesses the applications, which allows businesses to gain recognition for merit, innovation and impact, rather than marketing reach or size.

For bridal brands, retailers and wedding creatives, a shortlist or win can:

  • strengthen credibility within the industry
  • increase visibility with stockists and clients
  • build trust with brides and collaborators
  • highlight innovation and leadership within the market

The awards genuinely celebrate the creativity and dedication that drive the bridal world forward.

For bridal brands preparing for opportunities like this, strong positioning can make a real difference. You can learn more about Joanna’s bridal brand coaching here.

Judging the entries

I judged a dozen categories, including areas I care deeply about:

  • sustainability
  • customer service
  • bridal retail
  • inclusion and diversity

The judging process is thorough.

I examined each entry carefully and explored the business behind every application. I reviewed websites, social media channels, customer feedback and overall online presence to understand how each brand operates in practice.

Strong visual storytelling often influences first impressions as well. Editorial imagery and brand presentation can communicate a great deal about a business at first glance.

The process required time and attention, but I genuinely enjoyed it. It gave me the perfect excuse to indulge my inner bridal geek.

The judging deadline arrived just after New Year, so I celebrated the moment with a well-earned glass of champagne.

Bridal Week and the awards gala

The awards ceremony takes place during Bridal Week in Harrogate, one of the UK’s most important bridal buying events.

I loved walking through the show, catching up with familiar faces and discovering exciting new brands. The atmosphere felt vibrant and optimistic. Buyers wrote orders on stands, designers unveiled new collections, and conversations filled every corner of the event.

During the show I also spoke with several designers about a major project I will be working on in Europe this summer, which made the trip even more enjoyable.

Choosing my gala outfit

For the awards evening, I wanted my outfit to champion a bridal business.

I asked Phiney from Poppy Perspective whether I could wear one of her stunning vintage dresses for the gala. She kindly lent me the dress pictured above, and it was an absolute dream.

The embroidery and tassels created such a beautiful statement. I felt incredibly special wearing it – thank you again, Phiney.

Celebrating the bridal industry

he gala itself was brilliant.

More than 350 people from across the bridal industry gathered in one room, which created a lively and joyful atmosphere. Everyone celebrated the winners, shared stories and connected with colleagues throughout the evening.

Moments like this remind me how passionate and supportive the bridal community can be.

Thinking about entering bridal awards?

If you run a bridal brand, retail store or wedding creative business and have considered entering bridal awards, I would absolutely encourage you to do it.
The Bridal Buyer Awards are free to enter and judges assess every entry on merit. That means businesses of all sizes have the opportunity to gain recognition.
Whether you win, reach the shortlist or simply submit an entry, the process offers valuable reflection on your work and achievements.
Thank you to Bridal Buyer Magazine for inviting me to be part of the judging panel.