Your Sussex Wedding - October/November 2019 (Issue 81)

89 BRIDAL BOUTIQUES You’re in excellent hands with Sussex’s bridal boutiques I t’s time to start dress shopping, but where to begin? We believe there’s no substitute for a local bridal boutique, and in Sussex, you’re spoilt for choice, with some of the country’s best, staffed by passionate bridalwear experts ready to lend a helping hand. If I had a pound for every time a bride told me her vision for her big-day dress wasn’t working out until the boutique assistant encouraged her to try on their wild-card pick – which turned out to be the one – well, I’d be a wealthy lady! Don’t forget: For the people who work in these boutiques, helping you make this important choice isn’t just a job but a passion. They have a remarkable talent for knowing what will suit you, coupled with the patience of a saint! What’s more, when you appear for your appointment, you and your entourage will be welcomed with open arms and treated to an experience worthy of what is arguably the most important dress you’ll ever buy. The county’s bridal boutiques have opened their doors to Your Sussex Wedding as we find out what’s in store for you during the big shop. FOR THE AISLE Style EMILY CUMMING AT BELLA MAY BRIDAL Hassocks, BN6 9PX bella-may-bridal.co.uk When you visit Bella May Bridal, you can expect an exclusive appointment by having the luxury surroundings of the boutique to yourself, with its fun and calm atmosphere. You’ll be offered professional advice to assist you in finding your dream dress for your dream day. What top tip would you give to brides when dress shopping? Wear a strapless skin-tone bra. This can help you achieve a great look for all dress styles. What’s your trend of the moment? We’re seeing brides chose elegant sleek silhouettes in heavy crepe fabric or soft tulle with intricate beading. What’s your favourite dress in the boutique? Lyra by Danielle Couture, with its sweetheart neckline, detachable straps, stunning beading highlighting gorgeous appliqué and long-line bodice leading to a fine soft pleated tulle skirt with a chapel train. If you could dress any celebrity, who would it be and what dress would you pull first? With rumours of Lily James and Matt Smith being engaged, I would love to help Lily choose her bridal gown. As we know, Lily suits a Cinderella-style dress, but she’s also tall, slender and elegant, so our choice would be the gorgeous Marlene from Wendy Makin’s French collection. It’s a vintage-style halter neck with stunning beading and flowing soft tulle. KAREN HACKETT AT BLESSINGS OF BRIGHTON Brighton, BN1 5GG blessingsbridal.co.uk You’ll enjoy a personal service during your appointment, when you’ll have sole use of a beautiful Brighton showroom with ample floor space, 180-degree mirrors and seating for your guests. The team offers a full consultation, getting to know your likes and dislikes until you can narrow down the search to the one. Plus, each design is displayed with a suggestion for the perfect accessory to complement the dress. What top tip would you give to brides when dress shopping?  Ignore sizes! Wedding dress sizes are vastly different from your high street clothing. At Blessings, we work by fit not by size. What’s your trend of the moment? Our top trends vary from body-hugging jersey under lace to whimsical French tulles and fresh simple crepe designs. What’s your favourite dress in the boutique? It’s got to be Stella York 6767, Myree . The fitted and fluid crepe skirt edged in a beautiful lace and beaded straps is just divine! If you could dress any celebrity, who would it be and what dress would you pull first? Adele is a timeless and classic beauty, relaxed and so natural. I’d select Alandra by Stella York for her. The delicate long lace sleeves and the satin back chiffon A-line skirt would be perfect for her.  Marlene by Wendy Makin Alandra by Stella York