anthropologie weddings!

The first “person” I thought of was J. Crew. I’m pretty sure everyone over in their offices has been buzzing and talking about this since the announcement came out yesterday. Oh, the beauty of competition!

Anthropologie (owned by Urban Outfitters, aka URBN Inc) released fourth-quarter earnings and shared with the press about an upcoming wedding brand that should be launched online by Valentines Day 2011 and then with stores to follow.

From the Reuters and others (couldn’t find it on their corporate site):

The idea for creating a brand aimed at weddings —  featuring heirloom gowns, accessories, intimate apparel, decor and gifts — grew out of the company’s existing business, which often catered to brides and their entourages, Senk said.

There’s tons of press around this- type “Urban Outfitters wedding” into Google News and read away.

Very exciting! Obviously Anthro and J. Crew have different target markets, but I’m sure everyone’s looking to J. Crew to see what their next move is. There aren’t that many successful retailers that have moved into the wedding space, but given the momentum and energy (and success) around Anthropologie, I wouldn’t be surprised if they make a huge name for themselves this way.

Now I’m curious what they’re going to call the brand… any guesses?

Afterthought: Gap! where’s YOUR wedding brand?! Shoulda listened…