There are so many crucial decisions to be made when planning a wedding – and the bride’s dress is right up there at the top of the list. Which style, which material, which supplier? Here is some food for thought for brides-to-be from the 2017 collections
Before making the all-important decision about a wedding dress, it helps to have some idea about what you want. The best advice is to talk to the experts and keep it local, not just for the sake of the Hampshire economy, but also for ease of communication.
There are some excellent bridal suppliers across Hampshire and word of mouth plays a big part in the final choice. Talk to friends and relatives for their recommendations. Draw up a shortlist if you can and look at their websites and social media presence. How long have they been in business? Have they won any awards? Are there customer reviews to guide you? Are they members of a trade association?
In other words, before you start researching the dress, research the supplier. Laura Ward started her career as a wedding organiser with country house and international hotels before launching Brides of Winchester in High Street in 2010, focussing on dresses designed and made in Britain.
The firm won Bridal Retailer of the Year for London and the south east at the 2017 Wedding Industry Awards and will find out if it has clinched the national crown in London on January 12. It has also been accepted as a member of the Retail Bridalwear Association (RBA), after passing rigorous checks and signing up to its code of practice.
Ellis Bridals started in London in 1912, supplying wedding dresses to the aristrocracy. Today, it is an international business with its creations on sale across the world. Its 2017 collection has a large range of dresses and separates in various materials and style.
Brides of Winchester, Winchester. 01962-867751 bridesofwinchester.co.uk
Ellis Bridals’ Hampshire suppliers: Sass & Grace Bridal, Winchester. 01962-774160 sassandgrace.co.uk; JC Brides & Grooms, Portsmouth. 023 9277 9686 jcbrides.com; Crystal Boutique, Fleet. 01252 612575 crystalb.co.uk
