Newlywed designers throw open doors to indie wedding vendors
Forget stuffy bridal week presentations – Tanner Richie and Fletcher Kassel of Tanner Fletcher are redefining the industry with a decidedly down-to-earth approach.
A knot of community: designers host exclusive wedding fair
The pair, recently engaged themselves, hosted a public wedding fair on the rooftop of Nine Orchard in Lower East Side, NYC, offering a refreshing alternative to the traditional, invite-only showcases. It’s a bold move, directly addressing the gap between established bridal brands and the burgeoning ecosystem of independent Etsy vendors.
The event, held on the final day of Bridal Week, showcased both the couple's new wedding and event collection – a whimsical blend of English countryside aesthetics and French antique influences – alongside a curated selection of artisans from Etsy. Guests, RSVP’d to online, were treated to bespoke jewelry, handcrafted calligraphy and a truly personalized experience.
“We really wanted to meet people who are part of our customer community we haven’t met before, meet some of Etsy’s customers, and meet some of the sellers that we’ll be working with for our wedding and for our events,” Kassel explained. “It's really community driven.”
The design duo, who previously collaborated with Etsy on a September NYFW runway show, highlighted the importance of supporting small businesses and disrupting the often-stodgy traditions of the wedding industry. ‘We really want to create something that doesn’t exist,’ Kassel stated, referencing the desire to move beyond the established norms.
David Watkins, designer at RigbyLeighJewelry, showcased his Montana sapphire pieces, emphasizing the passion and individuality inherent in his work. Katie Rhee, a calligrapher, offered an interactive experience, engraving gifts for wedding guests – a tangible reminder of the special occasion.
The atmosphere was palpable with excitement and a genuine desire to connect. Attendees browsed the collection, discovered new vendors, and, crucially, engaged directly with the designers themselves. Richie and Kassel even hinted at incorporating some of the vendors’ creations into their own upcoming nuptials.
Rey Photography captured the event's vibrant energy, showcasing the collection’s romantic and eclectic spirit. This isn’t simply about selling dresses; it’s about fostering a network and celebrating the diverse talent fueling the next generation of weddings.
Ultimately, Tanner Fletcher’s wedding fair represents a significant shift – a visible commitment to community, creativity, and a more authentic approach to the world of weddings.