Discover / Accessory Designer Andrea Henderson

After Bridal Week Harrogate, we overheard a conversation about accessories at the show, and how there seemed to be a smaller selection of companies, resulting in less choice for brides. But then - in the other ear - we hear about the band of brilliant accessory designers whose names are about to hit the wedding scene. That group includes one designer that we have had our eye for some time because she is an established name in bridal – Andrea Henderson…

Andrea says: "I started creating jewellery as a child, always fascinated by stones, beads and vintage jewellery. I spent a big part of my childhood taking apart old jewellery and using it to recreate new pieces and most of my pocket money was spent buying beads, wire and findings. I made gifts for family and friends and sold my designs at school fetes and I loved seeing people wear my creations. My creativity evolved throughout school and I eventually went on to study Fashion Design at university where in my final year I specialised in bridalwear. I established my couture wedding gown and accessories business the year after I graduated."

WIN: As it stands, how do brides browse your collection?

Andrea: Customers can buy my designs online at www.andreahenderson.co.uk but I am also looking to be stocked at selected bridal boutiques.

WIN: We know you used to design wedding dresses, too. Why did you decide to focus on accessories?

AH: After graduating, I began creating couture wedding gowns and accessories. It was a dream to help brides create the look they wanted and I have many happy memories, designing dresses and accessories, but after over 10 years the combination of becoming a mum and progressing arthritis meant that it became more and more difficult for me to do dress fittings and work with heavy dresses. I had to accept it was time to hang up my dress-making shears, which was really hard. Thankfully I could continue creating bespoke accessories and find a way to continue to be part of bridal design.

WIN: What's new for 2024?

AH: I’ve been working with liquid acrylic which you can see in my Patia designs. It's such a versatile medium, which allows an absolute freedom of creativity with shape and colour. A number of my new designs are created using this technique. I love working with colour and this allows me to hand-paint designs and offer even greater individuality to my customers.

WIN: What trends have you noticed? What are brides wearing?

AH: Florals are still big news and I’m seeing more statement gowns with more significant and dramatic embellishments. Also, lots more colour. Generally, more personality comes through so that brides can feel themselves and find a look that’s truly, individually theirs.

WIN: Do you mirror trends in bridalwear or do you create the trends FOR bridal wear?

AH: I’m always following trends to see what looks are emerging, however, my pieces are very timeless as they are mostly inspired by nature and light so can complement many looks.

WIN: Do you have iconic pieces that you think could have been worn 20 years ago and will still be being worn in 20 years?

AH: When I think back to the number of tiaras I was making in the early 2000s, I laugh as I can’t really see brides wearing them now. However, some crystal and diamante headband style pieces still sell well and suit many of the popular hairstyles today.

WIN: Do you have a favourite piece or set of pieces?

AH: I love my clay flowers and particularly love the Hydrangea collection, especially the pins. They can be worn in so many different ways. 10 brides could wear the same set and still create 10 unique looks.

We love this beautiful selection of delicate designs, and this is your unique opportunity to get these stylish new pieces before anyone else! To find out more about Andrea Henderson's work and designs or to enquire about stocking them in your boutique, head to: www.andreahenderson.co.uk email: info@andreahenderson.co.uk or follow Andrea on Instagram @ah_couture_accessories