Edmonton, Alberta, Canada (September 15, 2025) — Known as Western Canada’s Bridal Expert, Gay Derk has spent over 40 years redefining the bridal market as Founder of Bridal Fantasy Group, Editor-in-Chief of Bridal Fantasy Magazine, and past president of Derks Fine Group of Companies. Under her leadership, Bridal Fantasy has grown into the leading bridal show in Western Canada, offering Edmonton and Calgary signature events that feature professionally choreographed fashion shows, innovative exhibitors, and unparalleled networking opportunities. Her Bridal Fantasy Magazine, available across retail outlets in Western Canada, expands the brand’s reach with lifestyle, health, empowerment, and wedding content, while her newest venture, Love Anthropology, blends digital media, podcasts, and blogs to explore the foundations of love, communication, and healthy relationships.
The International Order of Fantastic Businesses (IOFB) is proud to announce the induction of Gay Derk, along with her companies Bridal Fantasy, Bridal Fantasy Magazine, Derks Fine Group of Companies, and Love Anthropology, into its distinguished international network. In recognition of her four decades of entrepreneurial success, brand leadership, and transformative influence in the wedding and lifestyle industries, Gay Derk has been awarded the Global Brand Visionary Award 2025.
“It is such an honor to be inducted into the IOFB and to receive the Global Brand Visionary Award 2025,” said Gay. “For me, Bridal Fantasy and Love Anthropology have always been about more than business—they are communities that celebrate connection, creativity, and love. I’m grateful to share this journey with my family, my team, and now the inspiring leaders of the IOFB.”
Gay’s influence extends far beyond event production. Through partnerships, vendor markets, master classes, and digital engagement, she has built platforms that empower engaged couples and wedding professionals alike, transforming her vision into a global brand ecosystem. Her work has been recognized with numerous accolades, including honors from Bridal Show Producers International, Western Canada Fashion Week, ACE Awards of Distinction, and her leadership as Chair of Women in Retail at the University of Alberta.
“Gay Derk has transformed the bridal and lifestyle industries with vision, creativity, and unwavering dedication. From building Bridal Fantasy into a world-class brand to launching Love Anthropology, she has elevated businesses and inspired communities for over four decades. The IOFB is proud to recognize her achievements with the Global Brand Visionary Award 2025.” Said Dr. Allen Lycka, President and CEO of the IOFB.
The IOFB proudly welcomes Gay Derk and her companies into its global community, celebrating her enduring legacy of innovation, empowerment, and brand leadership. Learn more about Gay and her extensive work in the bridal industry by visiting https://www.linkedin.com/in/gayderk/ and https://www.linkedin.com/company/bridalfantasy/. You can find more on Instagram by going to www.instagram.com/gayderk, www.instagram.com/bridalfantasy, and www.instagram.com/love.anthropology.
About the International Order of Fantastic Businesses:
The IOFB is a premier international organization uniting exceptional businesses and leaders who exemplify innovation, integrity, and impact. Through recognition, global media exposure, and collaboration, IOFB provides its members with a platform to expand influence, elevate their brands, and build lasting legacies. Learn more at https://www.fantasticprofessionals.com.
For more information on the IOFB initiatives, contact:
Tami McCalla, Director of Operations
Email: [email protected]
Media inquiries contact:
Lynette Hoy
Email: [email protected]
