There’s a reason brides gather at The Bridal Lounge Northallerton, in North Yorkshire, and it’s because owner, Charlotte Guest knows a thing or two about wedding gowns. “Be yourself and not a crowd pleaser. Rule out rather than rule in,” she says confidently. With a career spanning more than 17 years and thousands of happy clients, we find out what makes this beautiful boutique so different.

Can you describe The Bridal Lounge bride in three words?
Beautiful, elegant and feminine
Your shop in Northallerton has been open for years, what’s the secret to your success?
We believe a bride is not just buying a wedding dress, but she is buying an experience. A bride wants to invest in a shop that offers excellent customer service, as well as after sales and in-house alterations. The Bridal Lounge Northallerton and its sister store, Brides of York, are two out of approximately 100 boutiques nationwide, who are proud members of the Retail Bridal Wear Association, which offers free wedding dress insurance under the bride’s protection scheme.

What can brides expect when they visit to your boutique?
Firstly, we listen to the bride’s initial ideas then ask questions on how she wants to feel on her big day and what the most important aspect of the gown is for her. We then talk the bride through our collection and brief them on design alterations. The bride is then left to peruse our collection and make a selection before we make our suggestions.

We see you stock fantastic labels such as Ritva Westenius and Alan Hannah, how do you choose the gowns you stock?
When we go buying we are always looking for that bit of individuality, as well as quality of fabric and cut. There are so many gowns out there and we understand that a bride doesn’t want to walk into a shop and see 50 dresses that look the same.
Who’s the one designer you would love to meet and why?
Coco Chanel. Understated and elegant - a strong forthright and formidable woman.

If you could dress one celebrity for their wedding, who would it be?
Pippa Middleton
How does a bride’s shopping experience differ in your store compared to others?
We offer an initial consultation, as well as a follow up service of in-house alterations. Plus, we offer a bespoke service.

Are there any bridal trends that you’re loving?
The Dior esque wasp waisted 50’s ball gowns and clean lines.
What’s your key advice for helping brides choose their wedding dress?
Only bring along people to your appointment for a second opinion if you trust their judgment. Think about how you want to feel on your wedding day and think about your venue.
How do you know when a bride has found the one?
There are often tears!
The Bridal Lounge Northallerton
8 Central Arcade
Northallerton
North Yorkshire
DL7 8PY
01609 776 619
www.bridalloungenorthallerton.co.uk