Q&A Fashion Look and feel your big-day best with help from our experts THE SUBTLE ART OF RESEARCH I’m nervous about my first bridal appointment. What can I expect and what should I take with me? Karensa Dyson from Bijou Bridal Boutique (https://bijoubridalboutique.com) says: It’s your very first bridal appointment and the nerves are setting in but, in all honesty, if you’ve done the research on the bridal shops you want to visit based on the dress styles you like, there’s nothing to worry about. Reading reviews from past real brides is an absolute must! It doesn’t matter about the number of reviews, what matters is the content of the reviews, and whether they’re consistent throughout. If the reviews say the bride was cared for and listened to, and not given the hard sell throughout the appointment, then you can be assured that this particular shop is a good place to start as it puts customer care above all else, and hopefully your nerves can start to settle down. There’s no law that says you have to visit more than one boutique, it’s a matter of personal choice. What I’d suggest is booking an appointment at one at a time. Don’t cram in three or more in one day as you’ll feel as though you’re on a conveyor belt and the magic of finding your perfect dress could end up being more like a chore rather than the special moment it should be. In a nutshell, researching the bridal shops you have a connection with is key to finding your perfect match. As for what to take with you, all boutique consultants are equipped for every kind of scenario, so don’t worry about what to take. Go with an open mind but also with a willingness to say “yes” to the dream dress! Every bridal shop has the perfect dress if you allow yourself to feel confident and believe it. https://johnsteelphotography.com UNIQUELY YOU I’ve always dreamed of a dress that’s unique and 100 per cent me. What are my options if I go down the bespoke route? Sarah Ashton from Thimbelina of York (www.thimbelina.co.uk) says: The options are many and varied in choosing a bespoke dress that will be as individual as you are. Here at Thimbelina you’re invited to a free and friendly consultation to determine your preferred choice of style. This will result in a sketch of the dress, together with a selection of fabric samples, any colour, any lace, tulle, sparkle, colourful inserts, or crystals or beading. A choice of style from the traditional, elegant, classic, silhouette with no embellishments to a 30-layer crystal encrusted highly decorated design is possible, or any alternative, showcasing your personal style, taste, preferences and fit. We’ll offer suggestions but ultimately it will always be based around your dream dress, and in choosing a madeto-measure dress you’ll know it will fit you perfectly and comfortably for your big day. You’ll see your style of dress when a toile (mock-up) is made to your measurements, using our personal pattern-making skills. Changes can be made at this stage, for example sleeves, neckline, back opening etc before the dress is cut out in the fabric. There are many other opportunities too when choosing a bespoke dress. You can have an over-top of lace made, or bolero, even removable sleeves. Also matching mini versions for flowergirls or accessorise their dresses using some of the fabric from your bridal dress. A popular and wonderful preference just now, when it presents itself, is to use some of the fabric from a relative’s clothing, giving that extra special family significance to your own wedding dress. £3.55 SEP/OCT 2023 VENUE STYLE GUIDE Tips from the best in the business Made in YORKSHIRE Keep it local when it comes to finishing touches WED & BREAKFAST Say ‘we do’ at one of these hotel venues CAMERA READY Looking the best for your big day Sneak Peek! Exclusive wedding inspiration Cover image courtesy of https://vickybengephotography.co.uk 56
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