We bring our ideas to life—regardless of stereotypes.

According to Global Market Insights (GMI), the global wedding dress market is expected to grow from $42.1 million in 2024 to $61.6 million by 2032. The U.S., where brides spend around $28,000 on wedding-related expenses, dominates this market.

Opportunities here are seized not only by American but also by international brands. One vivid example is Kotapska Bridal Couture, whose production is based in the smallest regional center in Ukraine—yet the gowns are loved across Europe and the U.S. Celebrities wear them, they’ve lit up New York Fashion Week, and outlets like Vogue and Marie Claire have written about them.

The brand’s founder, Iryna Kotapska, has even served on the jury of one of the most notable U.S. business awards—American Business Expo 2025.

How did you, a Ukrainian businesswoman, end up on the jury of this prestigious international award? 
The American Business Expo invites recognized experts and leaders across business sectors—people who have launched successful projects, implemented innovative solutions, created new products or services, and made a tangible contribution to their industry or the broader economy. They’re looking for professionals whose track records are respected far beyond their home countries—people who understand market trends, can dissect business models, and have a feel for promising ideas and ventures. Apparently, I matched those criteria.

Tell us about your business model. 
It rests on several principles. First, a strong, well-coordinated team with a clear structure in which everyone understands their role and responsibility. Second, meticulous planning of all processes—this is the foundation for sustainable growth and scaling. Third, impeccable service that puts the client’s needs first. For example, I set a rule for our staff: we respond to every inquiry within 15 minutes. And finally, we devote tremendous attention to promoting our products.

Where and how do you promote Kotapska Bridal Couture? 
We use every available channel—from word of mouth and social media to major international bridal shows and trade fairs: National Bridal Market Chicago, Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week, European Bridal Fashion Week, and Expo Wedding Fashion Ukraine. But our true gateway to high fashion was New York Fashion Week.

To appear at such high-profile events, collections must meet the highest standards. How do you achieve that? 
Years of experience in apparel design taught me every nuance of materials and cut. I know how to use lace, textures, and fabrics to highlight each woman’s unique beauty, taking into account every detail of her figure. I also monitor fashion innovations closely and regularly attend international textile and lace exhibitions—new patterns and textures instantly spark sketches in my mind. Unlike many foreign peers, at Kotapska Bridal Couture we’re not bound by stereotypes. We bring our ideas to life, whether or not it’s “the accepted way” to sew—and it pays off. Our dresses have been worn by TV host and actress Kady McDermott, model Ellie O’Donnell, Miss Paris 2023 Elena Faille, artist Sonia Morozjuk, and designer Andre Tan.

How does designing wedding dresses differ from producing other apparel? 
I’m deeply convinced that a wedding dress is not just an outfit—it’s the beginning of a family story. It’s also a dream, living in a woman’s heart since childhood. With that in mind, I strive to help brides feel confident, graceful, and unforgettable.

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Optional headline & dek for U.S. media:
Headline: From a Small Ukrainian City to New York Fashion Week: Inside Kotapska Bridal Couture
Dek: Founder Iryna Kotapska on building a disciplined team, answering every inquiry in 15 minutes, and designing gowns that defy stereotypes—now winning fans from Europe to the U.S.