Highlights from Our Supplier Networking Event at The Old Rectory, Killyman

On Monday 20th May, we had the pleasure of welcoming an incredible group of local wedding suppliers to the beautiful Old Rectory in Killyman for an afternoon of connection, collaboration, and community. As The NI Wedding Directory, we’re proud to be an online platform supporting Northern Ireland’s wedding industry, but there’s something special about stepping out from behind the screen and getting to know our members face to face.

We’re thrilled to say this was our busiest supplier networking event to date, with more attendees than ever before. From videographer and photographers to stylists, content creators, stationers, florists and more, the room was absolutely buzzing with energy, ideas, and conversation.

Warm Welcomes

We greeted guests with sparkling pink lemonade on arrival, setting a cheerful and refreshing tone for the day ahead. We also made sure everyone was well-fed and fuelled for great conversation with a beautifully presented lunch spread from Flamin' Outback. From fresh fruit platters, pastries, and traybakes to a variety of sandwiches, salads, and more, it was the perfect mix of light bites and sweet treats. Food always brings people together, and this was no exception!

Why In-Person Networking Matters

In an industry as people-focused as weddings, relationships are everything. When suppliers connect in real life, it doesn’t just build professional bridges, it brings trust, referrals, and collaboration opportunities that benefit everyone. Whether it’s teaming up for styled shoots, promoting each other on social media, or recommending each other to clients, stronger supplier networks lead to stronger businesses.

For us as an online wedding directory, events like this are invaluable. In addition to our wedding fairs, we get to hear firsthand what our members need, what challenges they’re facing, and how we can better serve them. It’s also a chance for us to put faces to names, celebrate the talent in our community, and say thank you for being part of The NI Wedding Directory family.

Inspiration & Insights from Guest Speakers

Alongside networking, we wanted to make sure everyone left with fresh ideas and inspiration. That’s why we curated a fantastic lineup of guest speakers, each sharing insights designed to empower suppliers in both business and mindset.

• Manifestation & Mindset: We kicked things off with a thought-provoking session from Carly Anderson from Flipping Belfast, on manifestation, helping attendees tap into their goals, visualise success, and build a business with intention and belief.

• Social Media Strategies: We explored how to stand out in a crowded digital space, with practical tips for creating engaging content, using Instagram effectively, and growing an authentic audience from the fantastic Gemma Mailey.

• PR for Your Brand: Alana McPhillips from The Clearbox Group unpacked the power of public relations, guiding suppliers on how to get their work featured in media and how to build those connections, and why being seen in the right places elevates your credibility.

• The Power of Print: In an age of digital everything, Steffi & Mega from Kaizen Print brought it back to basics with a talk on tangible branding tools, like merchandise and print that leave a lasting impression on couples and businesses alike.

A Grateful Community

We’re so grateful to everyone who came along, shared their stories, and helped create such a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The Old Rectory provided a stunning backdrop for meaningful conversations, and we’re already excited at the possibility of the next one!

To all the suppliers who attended: thank you. Your passion, professionalism, and positivity are what make the Northern Ireland wedding industry so special.

And to those who couldn’t make it this time, keep an eye out for upcoming events. We’re committed to building not just a directory, but a community.

Until next time,
The NI Wedding Directory Team