Newly engaged designers host intimate wedding fair, disrupting bridal industry norms
Forget stuffy presentations – Tanner Richie and Fletcher Kassel, a newly engaged design duo, threw a decidedly different kind of bridal week event. On the last day of the whirlwind, they hosted a public wedding fair at Nine Orchard in the Lower East Side, showcasing both their latest collections and a curated selection of Etsy vendors.
A wedding fair born from personal planning
The inspiration? Their own burgeoning wedding plans. “We’re recently engaged and really went down this rabbit hole of planning a wedding,” explained Fletcher Kassel. “This is kind of the perfect opportunity to bring together our favorite things, and at the same time scope out potential things for our own wedding.” The event, a vibrant mix of handcrafted goods and stunning fashion, offered a refreshing alternative to the traditional industry showcases.
Celebrating community and unique style
The space buzzed with energy as attendees – a mix of potential brides, industry professionals, and Etsy enthusiasts – explored bespoke jewelry from RigbyLeighJewelry, intricate calligraphy from Katie Rhee, and a dazzling collection of pastel-hued bridal gowns and event attire.
More than just a showcase
Tanner and Fletcher’s vision extends beyond simply displaying their designs. “We’re trying to make the wedding fair kind of an extension of the collection itself,” Kassel shared. “So it’s very English countryside with French antiques – almost like a secret garden or backyard wedding.” The carefully curated atmosphere echoed the romantic aesthetic of their creations, attracting a remarkably diverse and engaged audience.
A partnership that matters
The event’s success speaks volumes about the growing desire for alternative approaches within the bridal industry. Their partnership with Etsy, already established after a September NYFW runway show, felt like a natural progression. “For a big company like that to come on board and support like a small brand that’s doing something different is a really big deal for us,” Kassel noted. “But then it’s also amazing to make it about the small businesses.”
Focusing on the makers
Vendors like David Watkins of RigbyLeighJewelry emphasized the importance of connecting directly with clients. “As a designer, I work incredibly hard to bring passion and individuality to all of my pieces, and it is so wonderful to show them in person at events such as this,” Watkins stated. “Working with wedding clients adds an even deeper resonance to work that’s already incredibly meaningful to me.”
A different kind of disruptor
Kassel’s assertion that the wedding industry can be “dusty in certain aspects” reflects a desire to shake up traditional norms. “We really wanted to stand out as something different,” he said. The open-invitation format, a deliberate departure from exclusive industry events, further underscored this commitment to inclusivity. The fair wasn't just about selling – it was about fostering connections and celebrating the creativity of independent artisans.
Final thoughts
As the sun set over the Lower East Side, the fair concluded on a high note, leaving attendees with a newfound appreciation for handcrafted beauty and the power of community. Tanner Fletcher’s approach isn’t just about wedding fashion; it’s about redefining the entire experience.