An Essex Wedding - Page number 67 - May/June 2021 (Issue 98)

BRIDAL BOUTIQUES 67 THE ONE Finding We catch up with some of Essex’s top bridal boutique owners and designers SAY HELLO TO KELLY HULL OF ERIN KELLY BRIDAL Describe your boutique and service in five words… Modern, loft-style bridal studio. What designers do you stock? Watters, Willowby by Watters, Catherine Deane, Karen Willis Holmes. How did you come to launch your business? When searching for my own wedding dress I felt that everything was a bit dated and uninspiring, and the service was flat – which is the opposite of how you should feel when shopping for your wedding dress! I brought my 25 years of fashion and design experience into the business, carefully choosing the designers, style of the studio and the experience our brides receive. Why should brides choose to get their dress from a local boutique? Keeping business local is so important. It gives an element of personal service, which is crucial for such an emotional and personal purchase. I’m always on hand, and I love helping brides find the extra touches to complete their style. It’s not uncommon for the bride and her whole gang to have a full try-on session in the studio – it’s so much fun! What’s your top tip for brides looking for their dream dress? Build up an idea of your own wedding style and ideas – Pinterest is perfect for this – but be open-minded to different options. Visit www.erinkellybridal.co.uk Kelly’s favourite dress : Bentlee by Watters SAY HELLO TO SHARYN WARNER OF BRIDAL RELOVED MALDON Describe your boutique and service in five words… Welcoming, luxurious, fun, elite and intimate. What designers do you stock? I’m not tied to certain designers, so we have a great range including Temperley, Mia Mia, Mori Lee, Pronovias, Charlotte Balbier, Sassi Holford, Watters and lots more. How did you come to launch your business? I was working as a wedding and events manager at a local venue when an ex-colleague contacted me asking if I would like to buy her Bridal Reloved franchise as she was selling for personal reasons. My partner had been looking for an investment – and who better to invest in? Four months later I was the owner! Why should brides choose to get their dress from a local boutique? Although part of a franchise, we operate separately and personalise our boutiques. I have excellent contacts and can personally recommend local suppliers and venues. My Maldon High Street shop is easily accessible and we offer the services of a local seamstress for those all-important alterations. What’s your top tip for brides looking for their dream dress? Wear comfortable underwear when shopping. Tights are useful if you get hot as it helps the dresses slip on easily. Visit www.bridalreloved.co.uk Sharyn’s favourite dress : M152S by Alan Hannah