The rise of double-barrelled surnames
n the past couple of years, there's been a continued increase in the number of people wishing to join their...
We interview Kirsty Hadwin from Barrow in Furness-based bridal boutique, The Bridal House.
Q – Tell us about your company.
The Bridal house first opened its doors in 2017, offering a small range of bridal and prom dresses. In 2020 we took the plunge and moved to a larger premises in the town centre of Barrow in Furness. We also became a Gaia Brand Partner, expanded our collections to offer additional designers, began stocking a larger choice for bridesmaids and introduced a flowergirl range.
I carefully handpick every single style that is brought into the boutique and don't pack my rails with filler dresses. We only sell a style a handful of times to ensure we are keeping with the fashion, we live in a small town and feel this way our brides' guests will be unlikely to of seen their gown on anyone else in town.
Q – What services do you offer?
We offer bridal, bridesmaid and flowergirl appointments along with prom.
We offer services such as dress steaming, preserving and packaging, customising wedding trainers and hangers and a “dress the bride” service on the day of their wedding.
Q – What should couples expect when visiting your boutique?
To feel comfortable and put at ease, we believe your bridal shopping experience should be fun and memorable. We are there to offer our expertise whilst helping you find your dream dress.
Q – How long before the wedding should couples book an appointment?
There is no strict rule for this as we do offer off the rack dresses, which can be taken away on the day, but as a general rule designer gowns can take four-six months to arrive after ordering. Most of our brides visit us at least a year before their wedding date. Saturdays are always busy, so make sure you book in advance.
Q – What's your favourite part of the job?
I have two! Styling the brides, I love making a bride feel amazing and confident about herself! Empowering women is a highlight of my job!
Shopping, we attend Harrogate Bridal Show every September, it really is my favourite part of the year, we get to view all the latest styles, feel the fabrics and see how they move and watch all the newest trends on the catwalks.
Q – Do you have any top tips for couples?
Enjoy your wedding journey, give yourselves plenty of time to avoid any stress.
When choosing your dress, keep your entourage small. When you look in that mirror and cannot stop smiling at yourself, you will know it's the one!
Use social media for inspiration, a moodboard is a very helpful tool.
To find out more about The Bridal House, visit www.thebridal-house.co.uk