International Women’s Day, observed annually on March 8th, is a global celebration of women’s achievements, contributions, and the ongoing struggle for gender equality. We are celebrating women’s achievements and power.
This day holds historical significance, originating from labor movements in the early 20th century. Today, it serves as a powerful platform to acknowledge the achievements of women worldwide and advocate for a more inclusive and equitable future.
The roots of International Women’s Day can be traced back to the labor movement in the United States and Europe. The first National Women’s Day was organized by the Socialist movement in the United States on February 28, 1909. Inspired by this, the International Women’s Conference in Copenhagen in 1910 proposed the idea of an International Women’s Day to promote equal rights, including suffrage, for women across the globe.
The first official International Women’s Day was celebrated on March 19, 1911, in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. Over the years, the date was shifted to March 8th, and the day gained global recognition as a rallying point for women’s rights.
Importance of international women’s day
International Women’s Day serves as a reminder of the progress made in the fight for gender equality and the challenges that still lie ahead. It provides an opportunity to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women, highlighting their roles in various fields, including business, science, politics, and, notably, the bridal and wedding sector.
In the realm of weddings, women play an integral role in shaping the industry with their creativity, resilience, and dedication. From wedding planners to designers, photographers to florists, women contribute significantly to creating magical moments for couples embarking on a new journey. The bridal and wedding sector showcases the talent and innovation of women who bring dreams to life, turning visions into reality.
The wedding industry, traditionally associated with romance and tradition, has evolved to reflect changing societal norms. Women in leadership roles within this sector challenge stereotypes and inspire others, demonstrating that every woman has a place at the table and a voice that deserves to be heard.
Empowering women in the wedding industry with Wendy Adams & Georgia Flynn
Wendy Adams and Georgia Flynn, Event Directors on Bridal Week Harrogate and White Gallery, in England, joined NP Magazine on this very special day to talk a little about the importance of women’s role in the world and in the industry, with an emphasis on the bridal sector, where they both work.
Wendy’s foray into the bridal industry began in 1986 when she embarked on a role at a hotel in Harrogate. Little did she know that this would mark the starting point of a transformative journey. During her early days, the bridal events she encountered were modest, featuring just 20 small brands showcasing bridalwear. Over the years, her efforts have elevated the event to a global scale, now hosted in a professional venue that draws visitors and exhibitors from every corner of the world. Wendy’s instrumental role has solidified the event’s status as one of the largest B2B bridalwear shows globally.
In 2010, Georgia’s journey in the bridal industry began as Wendy’s assistant. At that time, the shows were known as the British Bridal Exhibition. Over the years, Georgia’s dedication and hard work didn’t go unnoticed. Gradually, she assumed more responsibilities, showcasing her capabilities and commitment. By 2020, Georgia had climbed the professional ladder to become the Event Director of the March Bridal Week event and White Gallery. Her story intertwines with the Harrogate Convention Centre, where she had initially worked during university holidays, handling various administration tasks for exhibitions. It was during this period that she crossed paths with Wendy, eventually securing a full-time position under her mentorship.
"Luckily, in such a female-dominated industry, we’ve never encountered any issues with being a woman so far! We have worked in other industries where it has been a problem, but we have always managed to work around these, and after producing a successful show whatever the industry have gained respect and praise for doing so."
Wendy and Georgia, with their experience of 38 and 14 years, respectively, have become integral figures in the bridal industry. Their enduring commitment to the Bridal shows stems from viewing the industry as an extended family. Their dedication is evident in their desire to create the most exceptional shows, ensuring exhibitors thrive and businesses flourish under their meticulous guidance.
The positive impact of Wendy and Georgia’s work on the bridal world is multifaceted. These women take immense pride in the shows they produce, with special emphasis on the launch of White Gallery, a designer showcase that has become a notable highlight. Witnessing the captivating catwalks featuring designers’ creations is a source of pride for Wendy and Georgia.
Notably, the Sunday night fashion show at Bridal Week Harrogate in September stands out as a memorable occasion, where over 800 bridal professionals gather in the Victoria Theatre to cheer on the latest designs. “We’re also very proud of the educational program we run at Bridal Week which are incredibly popular and help support and develop our boutiques in the UK to be world leading retailers.”, they explain.
International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate progress, honor achievements, and reflect on the ongoing journey towards gender equality
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it is crucial to recognize and empower women in the bridal and wedding industry. Supporting women-owned businesses, acknowledging their contributions, and fostering an environment of equality and respect are essential steps towards a more inclusive future.
In the bridal and wedding sector, women contribute significantly to creating timeless memories, showcasing their talents, and breaking barriers. As we mark this day, let us continue to champion the rights of women everywhere, ensuring that every woman has the opportunity to shine and make a lasting impact in her chosen field, including the enchanting world of weddings.
