NO MORE NO SHOWS 

While your double-booked Saturday plans might seem nothing to you, it’s everything to the boutique.

Brides failing to turn up to appointments can have a huge effect on businesses from the ground level up, and statistics show the problem has only worsened since the pandemic. Wendy at Bridal Wish Blagdon has her say:

WE UNDERSTAND THAT BRIDES WILL MAKE LOTS OF APPOINTMENTS WHEN LOOKING FOR THEIR DRESS. MY ADVICE IS TO ATTEND THEM ALL TO GIVE YOU A BETTER IDEA OF WHAT’S OUT THERE BEFORE MAKING ANY RASH DECISIONS.

WENDY, BRIDAL WISH

There are plenty of amazing boutiques in our region to choose from, some may have been recommended to you by a friend or family member, some you may have met at a local wedding fair, or some may simply stock the designs you like. Give them all a fair chance to show you what they have.

If you can’t make an appointment, please let the boutique know as soon as possible. Not turning up for an appointment denies another excited bride the chance of finding their dream dress. Most boutiques are small independent businesses that don’t want staff to be twiddling their thumbs when they could be helping, advising and guiding another bride.

This is massively damaging to small businesses, so we urge brides to cancel their appointment as soon as they know they have to.

You heard her, be upfront brideys!

WHAT TO BRING WITH YOU

Be fitting room ready with these handbag essentials…

- Desired Heel Height - packing a pair of heels similar to what you’ll be wearing on the day is vital. It gives you a good idea of how the dress will fall and minimises the risk of misjudged alterations. Heels also make your posture look better so even a small platform is a good idea.

- Nude Underwear - avoid the dreaded VPL (visible panty line) and wear a pair of skin-coloured undies to your appointment. There’s not a lot that can ruin a sleek Enzoani silhouette, but shocking pink nickers might…

- Inspiration Photos - either printed or on your phone, coming armed with picture inspo is a great way to narrow down the dresses. The boutique’s staff will have a better understanding of what you’re looking for and thank you for it.

- Hair Bobbles and Clips - is there anything worse than flailing hair getting in the way of your view? Tie or clip that weave back. Especially helpful if you want your hair up on the day.

- Your Entourage - this can make or break the experience. If you’re easily flustered, keep invites to a minimum and only invite those closest to you.

DON’T BLOCK OUT THE BUDGET

Being upfront about your budget is key. From the boutique’s perspective, they can only really help you if they know what you can afford, and it saves tonnes of time. It’s difficult, but pull away from those dresses that you just know are out of reach.

GO WITH YOUR GUT

A tip from White Lace and Butterflies – a fashionable boutique in Buckinghamshire stocking boatloads of luxury labels.

 IT’S SIMPLE REALLY – THE GOWN THAT MAKES YOU FEEL THE MOST BEAUTIFUL IS THE GOWN YOU SHOULD CHOOSE. EVEN IF A GOWN SEEMS WAY OFF ALL YOUR PINTEREST INSPIRATION, HONING IN ON FEELINGS CAN HELP YOU DECIDE BETWEEN DRESSES AND LEAD YOU TO THAT MAGICAL MOMENT WHEN YOU FIND 'THE ONE!'

STEPH, WHITE LACE AND BUTTERFLIES

On the gown hunt? Discover all the must-visit luxury boutiques on the Belle Bridal Guest List here.