Locals say Bridgerton launch was the 'best thing to happen to Bowral'

As part of the launch, the town was decorated with regency-inspired floral displays, bunting, and many businesses also embraced the occasion.

Some made Bridgerton-inspired treats and created special menus, some were approached by Netflix to include displays for people to take photos.

There were also exclusive screenings of the first episode weeks before its release in Australia.

While consumer spending figures are not available yet, the impact for businesses and the town has been nothing but positive.

"Lots of people were relieved," Lotus Magic owner Craig McDuff said.

"We were just happy that people came."

Cammy Pritachard owns the rare and vintage high-end silver jewellery business 925 Club Southern Highlands, and has seen the impacts of the bushfires and pandemic.

She said a boost of spirit and activity has been "needed for so long".

"This is the best thing to happen to Bowral," she said.

Author and founder of romance bookstore Books Ever After Kat T. Masen said the launch put the town "on the map", and brought more people to the store.

"The experience was fantastic for us," she said.

Coach House Collective was one store that had photo opportunities, and owner Sarah Bevis said the amount of foot traffic translated to sales.

"It was really fun, I was amazed by how many people dressed up," she said.

It was not the only opportunity to dress up - people also grabbed their best gowns, suits and headpieces for the Bridgerton garden party at Milton Park.

At the party, there was dancing, the chance to enjoy treats from local vendors, plenty of chances to take photos, and attendees also got to meet, and see some of the stars.

An exclusive launch of the first episode, was also held at the venue, and was attended by actors Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton, and Bridgerton showrunner Jess Brownell.