Couples planning their big day will have the chance to connect with some of the region’s most trusted wedding professionals when the New England Wedding Showcase returns to Armidale at the end of this month.
The much-anticipated event has moved to a new date this year and will take place on Sunday, 22 February 2026, from 10am to 2pm at the Main Pavilion, Armidale Showground, bringing together more than 40 premier wedding vendors from across the New England region under one roof.
Designed as a relaxed and inspiring day out, the New England Wedding Showcase offers couples the opportunity to explore a wide range of wedding services and creative ideas in one convenient location.
Event organiser and local Celebrant and MC Samantha Skinner is the brains behind the event.
“Both through my own work, and through organising my own wedding, I could see that there was a real need to bring together all our local vendors. I often have couples asking me for recommendations, so this just gives people a great opportunity to spend a day wandering around chatting to some of our fantastic local businesses and finding things that fit for their big day,” she said.
Vendors on the day will include stunning local venues and décor specialists, talented bridal makeup artists and hairstylists, celebrants, photographers and DJs, along with florists, caterers, fashion designers and a range of other wedding professionals. The diverse lineup aims to showcase the depth of expertise available locally, helping couples plan a memorable wedding while supporting regional businesses.
“New this year, we’ll have Homestead Road Bridal Co on site with some beautiful bridal gowns,” said Ms Skinner.
“We’re very excited to have them on board, and they’ll also be offering some fitting appointments so that brides can try dresses on at the Showcase.”
Whether attendees are searching for inspiration, locking in final suppliers or simply wanting to see what’s possible, the showcase is designed to suit couples at every stage of their wedding journey. Visitors will be able to speak directly with suppliers, view displays, ask questions and gather ideas tailored to their individual style and budget.
In addition to meeting vendors, attendees can look forward to a number of event-day extras, including exclusive showcase-only offers and discounts, exciting giveaways throughout the day, and a raffle featuring prizes valued at more than $1,000. These added incentives are designed to help couples get more value while planning one of life’s most significant celebrations.
Importantly, the event also supports a vital community cause. All proceeds from the New England Wedding Showcase will be donated to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, which plays a critical role in saving lives across regional New South Wales.
“I’m the Chairperson for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Armidale Support Group, and all the proceeds from the event are going directly to the Tamworth Base, so the community is directly benefiting,” said Ms Skinner.
“Over the last 2 years, we’ve raised over $800,0 so I’ve set myself a goal of $5000 for this year’s event.”
“As an extra fundraiser this year, we’ll also be selling The Whole Bride biodegradable confetti – not only will it be available at a discounted price, but 30% of sales will also go directly to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter.”
Tickets are priced at just $5 per person and will be available both at the door on the day and in advance via TryBooking, making the event accessible for couples, family members and friends alike.
“Even if you already think you have your wedding planned, please come along, it’s a great really inexpensive way to see all the great vendors we have here in the area – you might find something new or cool that you’d like to incorporate in your day, or you might even find some inspiration for another upcoming event,” said Ms Skinner.
For updates, vendor highlights and announcements in the lead-up to the event, locals are encouraged to follow @neweddingshowcase on Instagram.
The New England Wedding Showcase will be held at the Main Pavilion, Armidale Showground, Dumaresq Street, on Sunday, 22 February 2026, from 10 am to 2 pm.
Advertising with New England Times is a cost effective and reliable way to reach New England locals who are interested and engaged. Find out more here.