BRIDAL BOUTIQUES 67 SISTERS OF GRACE BRIDAL 0191 260 5270 | www.sistersofgracebridal.co.uk Where? Newcastle Prices? £600–£4,500 Sizes? 2–30 The lowdown: “Sisters of Grace brings our curation of contemporary luxe bridal wear to the North East,” says owner Danni Hesketh. “Our designers have been handpicked to reflect our ethos and our brides’ unique styles. From free spirited bohemian laces and fashionforward two pieces, to bold hand painted florals and chic modern statement makers, we house the dream edit with an experience to match.” The trends: “Hitting the catwalks for next year are coloured florals, statement puff sleeves and bold ballgowns with chic splits,” continues Danni. “Having said that, your dress should always reflect you and your personal style.” Ordering your gown: “Around 12 months before your day is the perfect time to find your dress, as it usually takes four to six months for it to be made and delivered. Your final alterations start six weeks before the day, too. This means you’ve a couple of months between your dress arriving to finalise all the little details for your special day.” Danni’s top tip: “Comfort and confidence are two main points to keep in mind when dress shopping, and they go hand in hand with one another – you want to shine all day long!” SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW SUSTAINABLE BRIDAL WEAR 07594 351166 | www.facebook.com/SomethingoldSomethingnew2022 Where? Darlington Prices? £50–£999 Sizes? 8–30 The lowdown: “All our wedding dresses are preloved, but some are new with tags on,” says director Deborah Atkinson. “All of them are either half price or less. We promote brides to be eco- and budget-conscious, which means you save money and do your bit to save the planet. We offer 0% budget plans for up to six months following a 25% deposit, if a gown is £600 and over, and up to three months following a 25% deposit, if under £600. We also give £10 to charity for every dress bought, giving back to the community.” The trends: “Dealing with only preloved dresses, our trends tend to be previous seasons,” continues Deborah. “However, we also cater for older brides, as well as those renewing their vows and getting remarried, who aren’t necessarily looking for current trends. We do still get dresses in stock that have only been worn a few weeks previously, all of which are cleaned and turned round ready to make a new bride shine.” Ordering your gown: “We advise you buy your dress six months prior to your wedding, to ensure it can be altered in time. However, as our dresses are preloved, we’ve had many brides walk out with their dress not needing any alterations, which again is good for your budget.” Deborah’s top tip: “Try on as many dresses as you wish or that we have available in your size. We want your appointment to be relaxed and fun, giving you the chance to find what you feel the most comfortable in. We’ve had some brides try on 15 dresses – and some only three and found the one!” THE WEDDING DRESS COMPANY 01434 634444 | www.theweddingdresscompany.co.uk Where? Corbridge Prices? £1,300–£3,000 Sizes? 8–22 The lowdown: “Our brides tell us we have the best selection of dresses in the North East,” says owner Sarah Stokoe. “Whether you’re looking for simple, boho or glamorous, we have it. The dresses are important, but we also have luxurious décor in a pretty village location with lots of quaint shops and places to eat. Each bride also gets completely private use of the boutique, and we even stock our own accessories.” The trends: “Sleeves are big at the moment, whether it be fitted, blouson, off the shoulder or voluminous,” continues Sarah. “Bridal gloves are set to be another trend, as are dresses with leg splits, and gowns made of luxurious fabrics such as sand washed silk or liquid crepe.” Ordering your gown: “We suggest brides buy their dress 12 to 18 months before their wedding. Some of the designers are on an eight month delivery schedule, and then you need to choose your accessories and have any alterations after your design arrives.” Sarah’s top tip: “Be prepared to fall in love with a dress as soon as you start trying them on – it happens more often than not, and the process isn’t as difficult as people tell you! We don’t set a limit on how many dresses you should try, as each bride is different. Some know what they want, so will usually try less than another bride who’s open to every style.” www.abigailgracevideography.co.uk www.abigailgracevideography.co.uk
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