Tyneside based wedding wear company heads for glitzy award night in London.
“There is only one thing in life worse than being talked about, and that is not being talked about.” Oscar Wilde 1890.
Well plainly, Jo and Brogan, the founders of Anela Wedding Wear, have been talked about because, after launching their business at the start of the year, they’ve been shortlisted for a prestigious award with Boutique Magazine.
Boutique Magazine is widely considered to be a cornerstone publication for the UK’s independent fashion retail sector…it’s a big hitter.
And the fact that Anela was launched, not to be just another place where mothers of brides and grooms go to buy wedding wear, but to make sure their chosen piece is fashion considered and feels incredible to wear.
And yes, a large part of their wedding wear is bang on trend because they design in-house, and work with other renowned designers. In other words, one of the UK’s top fashion magazines has come knocking at the Anela door because their wedding and occasion wear is stylish and fashionable…and different.
Here’s what Gemma Ward, Editor of Boutique Magazine said… ”I’m pleased to inform you that your business has been selected as a finalist for the Boutique Star Awards 2026….so we hope you are pleased to be recognised among the industry’s finest.”
Wow…praise indeed.
“To say we were both stunned and delighted is a massive understatement bearing in mind, we were only trading for five months at the time,” said Jo. “What it shows is that mams are willing to look around for something different to wear on this very special day… something authentic to them, fashionable and crucially practical.”
“Being able to design our own pieces is something that makes us stand out,” added Brogan. “We regularly have clients who don’t know precisely what they want…they like to be guided…so we guide them to the perfect piece.
The year 2025 was a huge milestone for both of us: Brogan tied the knot in Las Vegas, and Jo’s daughter, Abbie, was married amidst the natural beauty of Kielder Water in Northumberland.
Navigating the search for Mother of the Bride outfits firsthand revealed just how difficult, stressful, and impersonal the high-street process could be. We realised that mams were consistently being underserved during one of the most important milestones of their lives.
We recognised an immediate need for a dedicated boutique – a harmonious space of creativity, warmth, and genuine care designed entirely around mothers. With that shared realisation, Anela was born.
Jo went on to say “We don’t believe in rigid fashion “rules” or matronly uniforms. Instead, we offer a personal, body-positive approach to styling-helping you discover modern silhouettes, luxurious fabrics, and curated millinery that make you feel radiant, comfortable, and authentically you”.
Which is why Anela has come to the attention of Boutique Magazine. Good news spreads fast!
So, are you looking for something special…something different which represents you as a woman and mother…
The best idea is to log onto the excellent Anela website www.anela.co.uk and study the various collections from a host of renowned designers as well as Anela’s unique pieces. You’ll end up with ideas tumbling out of your head.
Next, either book an appointment online or give Jo and Brogan a call on 07831665888. You’ll then pop into their store, which is nestled inside the historic Exchange 1856 in North Shields, the boutique is a calm, bright, and a welcoming sanctuary where North East mams can relax, be themselves, and feel truly celebrated.
You’ll be guided through the world of Anela, their thoughtful designs, refined colours, luxurious fabrics, and have something you’ll be proud to wear and be seen in.
Anela is making headlines…you can too!
anela.co.uk