WEDDING WARDROBE The Wedding Wardrobe had been in existence for around 20 years before Tracey Whelan bought the business from the owners who were retiring. She says, “We wanted to build on the fantastic reputation of the company, while adding our own personal stamp.” In 2016, the property undertook a huge refurbishment and reopened in September, ready to provid the perfect setting for brides. Since then, the team has added new designers to the existing collections, including Maggie Sottero, Morilee, The House of Nicholas Bridalwear, The Dessy Group and Romantica Pure, as well as a wide range of accessories. The small and friendly team works incredibly hard to provide the best service for brides when they enter the boutique right up to their big day. Each client will have a private appointment, either in the designer room or in the saleroom, and the experienced team will pull dream-worthy gowns. After finding the one, the staff offer a dress storage facility and in-house alterations by the team of seamstresses. Then when the special day arrives, the team will be on hand to dress bridal parties and dry clean the gown after the big day. The company’s sister brand, The Sewing Rooms, is an independent bridal alterations studio that also offers this service for those who have purchased their gown elsewhere. The year 2020 was the most difficult for the bridal industry. Tracey says, “It was amazing to see so many of our amazing brides able to get married in 2021 with more planned for 2022. Owning this amazing bridal boutique has been one of the most rewarding things we’ve done.” CHECK OUT: www.weddingwardrobe.com THE BLUE BOW BRIDAL COMPANY Situated on the outskirts of Durham, The Blue Bow Bridal Company is a multi-award-winning boutique that first opened back in 2016. The owner Cheryl Ashford carefully selected the location to ensure it’s easily accessible from all areas and has direct links from the A1 and the A690. Over the last few years, the company has welcomed so many gorgeous brides into the boutique and decided to move into a bigger space to offer an even more luxurious experience for couples. The team offers one of the largest collections of designer gowns within the area, with prices starting from £500 up to £1,800 to cater for different budgets. Cheryl says, “We have selected some of the most amazing gowns from world-leading designers, and we’re really proud of all our collections. We can’t wait to welcome couples into our little piece of heaven and help them find their dream dress.” When brides-to-be step into the boutique, they’re welcomed by our friendly and passionate consultants who are there to help and support them every step of the way. The team offers two-hour appointments to all new brides, so no one will feel rushed. The stylists will learn more about the brides and what they’re looking for before helping to hand-select a collection of gowns perfect for them. The team will offer guidance and advice along the way and respectfully help clients stay within the brief and budget. CHECK OUT: www.bluebowbridal.co.uk “There are so many gorgeous bridal trends around at the moment, but we’re expecting some different necklines coming through in 2022. The square necklines are looking to be a popular option, and we think offthe-shoulder gowns will be around for a little while yet as well as bold prints and 3D floral details.” – Cheryl Ashford www.djmphotography.co.uk www.djmphotography.co.uk www.laurencesweeneyphotography.com www.laurencesweeneyphotography.com “We’re seeing a continuation of whimsical A-line dresses with romantic lace and off-the-shoulder straps or detachable sleeves. Many brides are opting for stunning fitted dresses with gorgeous back and train detailing as well as some simple but elegant satin and organza dresses for brides who aren’t a fan of lace.” – Tracey Whelan BRIDAL BOUTIQUES 77
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