Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding - May/June 2020 (Issue 80)

NEED TO KNOW Expert Steve Taylor, owner of long-established special occasion boutique Fab Frocks in Westbourne, Bournemouth shares his five-point plan to help make the wed-shop stress-free! 1. Talk to the bride Simple, yet effective. If you’ve not done it yet, sit down to discuss ideas as your first point of call before starting the search. Now would be a great time to flick through wedding magazines and Pinterest together to get on the same page.  2. Choose your colours Coordinating your colours with the bridal party will help you pick something that will look good in the wedding photos. You don’t need to match the bridesmaids but you do want to avoid clashing with them. 3. Don’t dive in It’s easy to get carried away in the excitement as soon as you get the news, but it’s always best to wait a while before shopping for your outfit. Confirmation of the venue and time of year will give you the info you need to get the look right and avoid shopping regret later. 4. Compare notes Even if you want your outfit to be a surprise, make sure you compare notes with the mother-of-the groom to avoid any embarrassment. Or better still why not go shopping together? Sharing details of the brand, colour and general style of your outfit will ensure you don’t turn up with the same look. 5. Have fun The most important thing to remember is to enjoy the process. Choose something you’ll feel comfortable and confident in all day and you can’t lose. Visit www.fabfrocks.co.uk ONE OF A KIND With more than 35 years experience in the industry, founder and creative director of Hampshire-based Olivia Bea Designs Jane Beagrie is renowned for her beautiful bespoke creations. She designs and makes original occasion wear, hats and accessories - so no fear of anyone else turning up in the same outfit on the big day! “I love creating beautiful bespoke garments and accessories that show people’s individuality and style,” she says. Visit www.oliviabeadesigns.com Couture Club 49153 Linea Raffaelli Set 230 DRESSING THE BRIDAL PARTY 61