Feb 14, 2024

Formal Markets bring updated resources to Atlanta

Formal Markets in Atlanta showcases its full collection of bridal, formal and social occasion resources for its first buying event of the year, with expanded educational opportunities, hallmark fashion events and amenities, April 9-11 at AmericasMart Atlanta.

“The social occasion industry is booming and Atlanta’s formal offerings continue to grow to meet demand with more collections, more categories and more inspiration than ever before,” said Caron Stover, senior vice president of apparel at ANDMORE. “This April edition is a can’t miss, with top brands under one roof, complimentary amenities and celebrations and business insights to boost sales.”

Sourcing expands

The April buying event will feature Fall/Winter ‘24 in key categories — bridal; homecoming; quinceañera; wedding party; men’s formal and evening — in 250-plus Formal Markets individual collections presented across permanent showrooms and temporary exhibits on three floors. Among highlights in sourcing resources this April is Anne Barge, Aerie Couture, Lovesome and Perfect Dress joining temporary exhibits for the first time.

Alongside expanded and new brands, Formal Markets will present notable brands across AmericasMart Building 3 floors 10, 12 and 14: 2Cute Homecoming, Adrianna Papell; Allure Bridals; AMARRA; ASHLEYlauren, Ava Presley, Casablanca: Chandalier, Christina Wu; De Blossom Collection; Design by Conception, enVogue Bridal Accessories; Evie Young; House of Wu; JH Bridal; Johnathan Kayne; Jovani; Justin Alexander; Mac Duggal; Madi Lane; Martin Thornburg; Mon Cheri; Morilee; Portia & Scarlett; Primavera; Rachel Allan; Sherri Hill; Sydney’s Closet Plus Sizes; Tarik Ediz; Teri Jon and more. A full list of Formal Markets exhibitors is at https://www.atlanta-apparel.com/exhibitor/directory.

Events, education and amenities

Adding to the market experience, Formal Markets attendees are invited to the Kickoff Party, Tuesday, April 9, featuring a reimagined fashion show, themed Revolving Runway, showcasing the newest Fall/Winter ’24 fashions in the Fashion Theatre on Floor 15 of Building 3. Attendees will have the opportunity to network and enjoy music, food and cocktails, giveaways and more while featuring looks across bridal gowns, flower girl, mother of the bride, bridesmaids dresses, quinceañera, homecoming, tuxedos and accessories.

“Lunch and Learn,” sessions will educate attendees throughout the market, with an Expert’s Panel at noon on Tuesday, April 9, featuring key buyers sharing tips and tricks for successful business. Patrice Catan, gown designer, bridal salon owner and podcast host of, “Tales from Behind the Veil,” shares insights about the newest in bridal at noon on Wednesday, April 10.

New-to-market buyers can participate in the New Buyer Orientation sessions daily at 9 a.m., led by Sarabeth Jackson, director of buyer services for apparel at ANDMORE. Jackson aims to help buyers effectively navigate the market and take full advantage of all of the resources, education and networking opportunities.

Through an exclusive partnership with Formal Markets, Mon Cheri Academy will host an all-day, intensive session for retailers on Monday, April 8, from noon to 8 p.m., providing new insight about investing in the future of business in 2024. Lunch, coffee and dinner will be included.

Both permanent showrooms and temporary exhibits at Formal Markets in Atlanta run Tuesday, April 9 and Wednesday, April 10, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Thursday, April 11, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.