Your South Wales Wedding - November/December 2019 (Issue 70)

The WOW factor The Queen B, a mother-of-the-bride and occasion wear boutique in Penarth, recently celebrated its 10 year anniversary. The owner, Jodie Tanner, said: “I opened the boutique in 2008 after leaving a career of 25 years in banking. I decided to follow my dreams and open an affordable yet fashionable women’s shoe shop. Although everyone called me crazy for opening an independent boutique during a recession, I saw a gap in the market for footwear that was both comfortable and stylish. As the boutique’s following grew, I later introduced casual clothing and finally occasion wear, which is how The Queen B got to where it is today. We are so grateful to be where we are in such a competitive retail climate and hope to keep styling ladies for the next 10 years to come!” To find out more, visit thequeenb.co.uk All the latest from around the region Nearlywed NEWS Dressed to impress Pleser is a family-run bridal and occasion wear specialist that’s celebrating 30 years of business. We spoke to Bethan Mair to find out more: “When Marian Williams’ husband was offered redundancy from the local coal mine, they decided that the payout should be invested in a wedding boutique. In no time at all, more hands were needed and luckily, her daughters were able to join the business. “The business has been going for nearly 30 years now and what Marian has achieved is a huge inspiration to me. As the business moves forward into the future, customers can be assured that quality and personal service will remain central to all that the company offers. The boutique stocks exclusive designers, including Mooshki, Jesus Peiro, Rembo, Marylise, Rosa Clará and many more. It also offers gorgeous veils, shoes, headwear, jewellery and bags perfect for all styles.” Visit pleser.co.uk to find out more. DRINK IT ALL IN The Vale Resort in Hensol has recently opened a craft distillery. Visitors can distil, bottle and take home their very own bespoke bottle of gin in the basement of the 400-year-old Hensol Castle. Located in the grounds of the four-star Vale Resort, the distillery features a bonded warehouse, gin school and visitor experience. The marketing manager, Stephanie Metson, said: “Every maid-of-honour and best man want the hen and stag they’re organising to be unique and memorable. Where else can brides and grooms indulge in Wales’ largest spa, get involved in adrenaline-fuelled activities and enjoy a gin they’ve concocted themselves? Their bespoke gin creations can also be re-ordered at any time, whether as a gift for the bride and groom or the bridal party. If the happy couple love their creation, they can even order the recipe as wedding favours for their guests on the big day.” For more information, visit valeresort.com philip-warren.com YOUR ESSENTIALS 13