Australian womenswear label Bec & Bridge is celebrating 22 years of operation in 2024. In this Q&A, Bec & Bridge founders Becky Cooper and Bridget Yorston reveal their secrets for continued success.
What is an average day for you both at Bec & Bridge?
No two days are the same. From the beginning we have made all the business decisions together and still today we work collaboratively across every area of the brand. We could be designing, visiting our stores, planning for upcoming events or catching up as a team internally to workshop product and branding. Balance is key for us, so we work to a schedule that allows for time outdoors and the flexibility to enjoy time with our families after the working day.
Over the brand’s 22-year history, what are three key business highlights you achieved?
Twenty-two years has gone by so quickly but with so many learnings and successes. In terms of highlights, the first would be growing an amazing team; we have incredible people working with us, a high percentage are women and together we achieve great things.
Another high point would be watching the business steadily grow in overseas markets – the US is our biggest market outside of Australia and the Bec & Bridge brand has gradually grown in reputation there over the last 5-10 years.
Our third business highlight has to be making it through the pandemic and continuing to grow after such a turbulent time in fashion and retail. That was our biggest challenge yet and we were so proud of the team for adapting and showing real determination whatever was thrown at us in those years.
What are the three key business lessons you learned in that time?
- Never get complacent. Continually work to push the brand forward.
- Consistency is key – there’s something to be said for slow and steady growth rather than overnight success.
- Never underestimate your customer. Earning and maintaining their loyalty, and constantly discovering their wants and needs is crucial to our business.
What key project are you working on right now?
It’s all about Australian Fashion Week for the first half of the year, as we prepare for our solo show. Refining the collection, working with our creative team on the show concept, locking in sponsorships, casting models… It’s a huge project and months of preparation leading up to what feels like minutes on the runway. But we love it and it’s a huge privilege to showcase our designs in our home country’s leading fashion event.
Do you have a goal for 2024?
We're excited to build on the momentum we're seeing in the US and China, Bec & Bridge is thriving in both markets.
Bec & Bridge has 11 boutiques and two bridal showrooms across Australia. It is also sold through David Jones along with other stockists.