Why I’m not Throwing a Wedding Fair…
I'll let you in on something: I've never loved wedding fairs.
If you've been to one, you'll know the feeling. A big hall, rows of stands, a tote bag slowly filling with leaflets you'll never read, and that slightly hunted sensation of being sold to from every direction. You leave with tired feet, a sugar crash from the cake samples, and — if you're anything like the brides I meet in the studio — no clearer idea of who you actually want by your side on your wedding day.
Here's what I believe instead: today's bride doesn't book the supplier who shouts the loudest. She books the people she feels a genuine connection with. The florist whose eyes light up when she describes her colour palette. The photographer who makes her mum laugh. The winemaker who tells her the story behind the bottle.
That connection doesn't happen across a trestle table. It happens over a glass of fizz, in the sunshine, with no pressure and nowhere else to be.
So we're doing something different
On Sunday 16th August, from 11am to 3pm, we're opening up the courtyard at Fisherton Mill for Lyra's first ever Summer Soirée — a relaxed afternoon for brides-to-be and their favourite people. Bring your partner, your mum, your girl gang, whoever makes wedding planning feel like fun rather than admin.
There are no stands competing for your attention. Instead, there's a small, hand-picked circle of local suppliers I genuinely rate — people I'd want at my own wedding — plus a couple of much-loved names you'll recognise.
Here's a taste of the afternoon:
A glass of Wiltshire fizz and canapés on arrival, courtesy of Bluestone Vineyards and A Little Place
Beautiful florals from Gullicks Florists
Permanent welded jewellery from The Sacred Rose — a lovely one to do with your bridesmaids
Brow consultations and shaping with Brow Therapy
Hand and arm massages from Jo Malone London
A photo backdrop with Nicole Walker Photography — your pictures sent to you afterwards
A goody bag for every bride, with treats from Jo Malone and Rituals
And the Lyra studio open all afternoon to browse — no appointment, no pressure, just gorgeous dresses and good company
The important bit
The Soirée is completely free for brides-to-be, but it isn't open to the general public — it's an RSVP-only afternoon, so we can keep it intimate and make sure every bride gets a proper welcome (and a goody bag with her name on it).
Reserve your free place here — or find all the details on our Summer Soirée page.
I can't wait to raise a glass with you.
Philippa xx
Lyra Bridal Studio · Fisherton Mill Courtyard, Salisbury SP2 7QY
