I was so excited to meet Loredana from the Italian Trade Agency at a Sydney Vera Wang event, and nearly screamed when her invitation arrived to travel to Italy to take part in “A Fashion Journey to Southern Italy: a Bridal, Evening Wear and Accessories Trade Event”. Just like a dream, I was whisked away to a little seaside town in the region of Puglia called Polignano a Mare. It was such a tease to be in such an incredible place for only three-and-a-half days, but I soaked up what could while learning about the Italian bridal trade world!
Aussie girls …
I wasn’t the only Aussie on the trip and was so happy to finally meet the lovely ladies (and sisters) of Sydney’s renowned Peter Trends Bridal! Born into the bridal world, the girls are now running the business that their dad set up many moons ago! Besides having their own label, Paulein and Monique are Australian distributors for Italian brands Fara Sposa, Novia d’Art and Rosa Clara and were excited to meet new designers in the hope to add to their extensive range.
Italian made
I’ve always had a great respect for anything Italian made and I’m sure you will agree that the quality in both craftsmanship and materials is next to none (besides our very own). It was great to experience this for myself and meet the men and women behind some of the creations I’ve grown to love. Our first full day started at the Hotel Covo dei Saraceni where buyers and media from around the globe were all in the one place to meet local designers and view new collections in the hope that they would make their way back across to many pockets of the world, and in doing so help overcome the country’s struggling economy.
The wedding
I was so spoilt throughout the entire trip with amazing food and company, and on my last night I was surprised with a traditional Italian wedding celebration. I was lavished with live music, traditional folk dance and a banquet of local handmade pastas and cheeses including hand- pulled bocconcini, all set in a picturesque olive grove. Thanks Loredana for this amazing experience – one I’ll keep with me forever!
