Two years before launching the wedding trousseau exhibition, Bridal Asia (formerly Bridal 99), Divya Gurwara personally visited designers, jewellery makers and wedding planners across India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. The idea of an event dedicated to couples-to-be was unheard-of in the 1990s. But what was clear was a gap in the Indian market for a curated bridal fashion and jewellery service.

With a background in gemology, Gurwara introduced the idea of presenting bridal wear in a centralised format of a six-day event; three days of fashion shows and another three for an exhibition. This was 1999 and the city was New Delhi. “Bridal Asia was born with 44 exhibitors. Today, the number has gone up to 90, and we see a footfall of 20,000 in Delhi,” she says. The latest autumn/winter edition wrapped up in Mumbai last week. In a span of over two decades, the event continues to be a sort of launchpad for up-and-coming fashion and accessories design talent, including names like Payal Singhal, who is today known for her lighter, effortless lehengas.