We are thrilled to invite you to The 2026 Black Bride Awards Gala!
The illustrious event will not just celebrate Black excellence in the wedding industry, but will also celebrate 27 years of the Black Bride brand.
We extend our deepest thanks to our sponsors and partners. Your continued support enables us to produce an event that honors excellence, culture, and community at the highest level.
The Black Bride Awards Gala is powered by Black Bride Magazine, hosted by The Hotel at Avalon, with event planning by J. Ladson Weddings and Events and event design by Lux Lifestyle Event Llc.
We are thrilled to invite you to The Black Bride Awards Gala! The event will not just celebrate Black excellence in the wedding industry, but will also celebrate 27 incredible years of the Black Bride brand.
Mark your calendar for January 30-31, 2026, and stay tuned for announcements throughout 2025. Our host venue is The Hotel at Avalon, Autograph Collection, located at 9000 Avalon Boulevard, Alpharetta, GA 30009. The evening promises to honor the most talented Black wedding and event professionals who have achieved significant milestones in the hospitality industry.
January 31, 2026 – Saturday, Awards Gala
Awarding Black Excellence
The Black Bride Awards Gala is a premier celebration honoring the creatives, professionals, and visionaries who bring love stories to life and preserve them for generations.
Rooted in culture and elevated by luxury, the Gala recognizes excellence across the wedding and events industry—spotlighting planners, designers, photographers, filmmakers, florists, stylists, and innovators whose work transforms moments into lasting memories.
More than an awards ceremony, this evening is a gathering of community and commerce. It is a space for recognition, meaningful connection, and authentic celebration—where industry leaders, emerging talent, and supporters come together to honor impact, artistry, and legacy.
Created by Black Bride, the trusted authority serving brides and wedding professionals of color for over 27 years, the Awards Gala reflects a commitment to visibility, excellence, and intentional celebration.
This is where culture is honored, creativity is elevated, and contributions are recognized…beautifully and unapologetically. From an elegant cocktail hour to a sumptuous dinner and our celebrated awards ceremony, the evening promises laughter, connection, and unforgettable experiences. With the DJ keeping the party rocking, guests will celebrate excellence, make meaningful connections, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Our vision extends beyond the event itself.
Black Bride is committed to creating meaningful experiences that support creativity, connection, and growth within our community. While the Awards Gala is a moment of celebration, our work continues year-round through storytelling, recognition, and intentional engagement.
More to come.
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Attendees Can Expect
Cocktail Hour
Enjoy a complimentary cocktail and hors d’oeuvres.
Dinner
Savor an exceptional meal as we honor Black excellence in our industry.
Entertainment
Immerse yourself in an evening of live music, special performances, and a DJ setting the mood for celebration.
Awards
The Gala will present fantastic opportunities for networking with attendees, including the presentation of the coveted 2026 Black Bride, Black Excellence Awards. The evening offers a chance to celebrate successes across the Wedding and Event Industry. Join us for an evening of recognition, celebration, and fellowship!
Voting is officially open! Voting will end on January 10, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST
The Wedding Visionary Service Award
Best Wedding Planner | Best Designer
Honoring the visionaries who go above and beyond to craft unforgettable wedding experiences, this award celebrates planners and designers whose dedication, creativity, and flawless service set the gold standard in the industry.
Best in Decor
Best Florist | Best In Rentals/Specialty Rentals | Best in Balloon Design
A celebration of artistry and atmosphere, this award honors the florists, rental curators, and design specialists who transform spaces into unforgettable wedding experiences.
Best in Production
Production Staging, Lighting, Floor Wrapping
Recognizing the masters of atmosphere, this award honors the staging, lighting, and production teams who transform venues into breathtaking experiences through flawless execution and innovation.
Best in Fashion
Best in Groom Fashion | Best in Bridal Fashion
Honoring the visionaries who dress love in style, this award celebrates bridal and groom fashion designers, stylists, and creators who set the standard for wedding-day elegance.
Best in Glam
Best Makeup | Best Hair
Celebrating artistry in beauty, this award honors the makeup artists and hairstylists who bring confidence, elegance, and unforgettable wedding-day glam.
Best in Storytelling
Best Photographer | Best Videographer
Recognizing the photographers and videographers who capture love through still imagery and motion, this award honors those who turn wedding moments into timeless stories.
Best in Entertainment
DJ, Band, Musician
From DJs and bands to choirs and instrumentalists, this award celebrates the entertainers who set the soundtrack and energy for unforgettable celebrations.
Best in Culinary
Caterer, Cake Designer, Sweet Treats
Honoring caterers, cake designers, and sweet creators, this award recognizes the culinary artists who delight guests with flavors as memorable as the moment.
Best in Creative Paper & Design
Stationery, Calligraphy, Graphic Design
From stationery suites to calligraphy and graphic artistry, this award celebrates the creatives whose designs set the tone and style of the wedding journey.
About Our Host Venue
Experience the Hotel Avalon
Inspired by the legendary allure of Avalon, where the essence of the “Good Life” thrives, the Hotel at Avalon emerges as a luxurious reimagination of the resort experience. Here, guests are invited to embrace the timeless art of living well.
Nestled in the heart of Alpharetta, Georgia, this sophisticated destination combines modern Southern hospitality with a vibrant, walkable community offering premier shopping, dining, luxurious lodging, and entertainment. Seamlessly extending from the hotel, the Alpharetta Conference Center stands as the region’s premier venue for meetings and events, redefining luxury and excellence.
Book your stay at The Avalon Hotel, and enjoy a special rate curated just for you!
Want to Get Involved?
We extend our appreciation to our sponsors for their invaluable unwavering support. Your partnership enables us to honor professionals in the wedding and events industry and create a space for celebration. For sponsorship information or to volunteer for the Gala, email us today, [email protected]