New Delhi, Aug 19 - Weddings can defy recession. From the looks of it, that's what the Bridal Asia exhibition here next month is out to prove, bringing big names in couture and jewellery design along with mehndi artists, planners and travel companies under one roof.

'We cater to many brides and grooms who are out shopping for that dream wedding and serve as the perfect platform where bridal dreams come true and a perfect wedding gets planned,' Bridal Asia founder Divya Gurwara told IANS.

The 11th edition of Bridal Asia will be held at Ashoka Hotel from Sep 19 to 21.

Gurwara insists that weddings make for a recession-proof industry and people don't mind splurging for good designs.

'I have always believed that wedding is a recession-proof industry. Last year people were cautious buyers but still we did exceptionally well. This time the tables have turned upside down, the condition is improving and I am sure people would again shop with enthusiasm,' explained Gurwara.

No reliable figures are available for the Indian wedding market but various estimates place it at Rs.500-600 billion, with an annual growth of 15 percent.

This year the designers participating in the event include Rina Dhaka, Reynu Taandon, Pallavi Jaikishan, Falguni and Shane Peacock, Siddartha Tytler, Prashant Verma, Nikki Mahajan, Anjalee and Arjun Kapoor.

'This is the best wedding affair and people love to show off for a wedding, especially if it is a Punjabi wedding.