Your Bristol & Somerset Wedding - June/July 2020 (Issue 77)

SAY HELLO TO MICHAELA GAIR OF CLIFTON BRIDES BOUTIQUE How would you describe your boutique? Our boutique is classic and elegant with a relaxed and friendly approach. You’ll find us in an enviable position in Clifton, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Inside our newly refurbished boutique, we have created a beautifully calm space for our brides and their guests to see our gorgeous collections. What designers do you stock? Our designers include Alan Hannah, Alma Novia, Justin Alexander Signature, Mikaella Bridal, Lillian West and Eliza Jane Howell. Tell us about your favourite dress? I love all the dresses I choose for the shop, but my current favourite would have to be style 66067 by Lillian West. A sexy, flirty gown, it has an illusion bodice in soft cotton lace and a floaty skirt. What’s your stand-out moment in your bridal career? Firstly, it has to be reaching our 30 th anniversary. I can’t believe it’s been that long until I look back at the old pictures! Secondly, we loved sponsoring the Gok Wan One Size Fits All event in Bristol. Seeing the crowd’s reaction to our dresses on the catwalk was great – and what a nice man Gok is too! Visit www.cliftonbrides.co.uk SAY HELLO TO SARAH HACKETT OF ROOKERY BRIDAL BOUTIQUE How would you describe your boutique? We pride ourselves on two things: excellent service and quality products. We do everything we can to make sure our brides feel welcome and comfortable, while giving the best advice and support to help them find the one. We stock a large range to cover all shapes, sizes and budgets. We love helping our customers, and this shines through in our approach. What designers do you stock? Essense of Australia, Paloma Blanca, Justin Alexander and Rosa Clara, alongside Richard Designs, Dessy bridesmaids’ dresses and Rainbow Club shoes. What designer, past or present, would you choose to design your own dress? I would be tempted to go for an independent designer so my gown was completely bespoke. In terms of the design, I love the idea of wearing a totally over-the-top style with plenty of sparkle, a drop waist and a full tulle skirt. What’s your stand-out moment in your bridal career? I think that might be about to come. It’s currently a secret, but I can say there are exciting things happening at Rookery Bridal! I purchased the boutique in October 2019, and have been working closely with suppliers to push the business forward. On a daily basis, seeing a nervous bride leave feeling full of confidence defines my career. Visit www.rookerybridal.co.uk BRIDAL BOUTIQUES 57 Michaela’s favourite dress : Style 66067 by Lillian West Sarah’s favourite dress : Style 88074 from Justin Alexander