How it began
My name is Imogen and I have worked in fashion retail since leaving University. Following my own wedding, I wanted to run my own bridal shop and offer customers an experience to remember. The journey from the marriage proposal to the big day is one I will never forget, and I want my brides to feel the same way I did. Afterall, aside from who you are marrying the dress is THE MOST IMPORTANT THING!
Our Ethos
We are all about great customer service. We offer the experience you have always wanted. Along with all the excitement, there can also be a lot of anxiety and some brides might feel nervous and overwhelmed before they commence their search. We make sure our brides walk into a very calm, relaxing, stress-free environment. We want you to feel at ease at every stage of the process. All viewings and fittings are private and by appointment only, so that you can come alone or with your family and friends.
Our Promise
To strive to achieve style versatility with the designers we carefully curate. To provide you with the perfect experience from start to finish. To be committed to helping you throughout the entire process.
Our happy
brides
Your questions… answered
How far in advance should I begin my search?
Usually brides begin their search around a year before their wedding and tend to make a decision around 6 months before the big day. A good time to start is after you have booked your venue, then you will know what the surroundings and themes will be, which will help your decision-making process with the dress.
As we operate on a by appointment only policy, you will need to enquire for an appointment. All appointments are free of charge. Each appointment is an hour and a half long, and we recommend bringing 1-4 guests.
Is there disabled access to the boutique?
There are 3 steps up to enter into the boutique, if you require disables access, please notify us and we will do our best to provide a ramp where needed.
What do I need to bring with me my appointment?
We ask that you check our website and short list a few dresses that you like and bring this list with you. A selection of around 6 gowns will be tried to begin with. Nude underwear and strapless bra is always good to bring, we have bridal shoes in all sizes.
What sizes are the wedding dress samples at the boutique?
Our samples to try on are between UK10-14, we have one of each dress, however all sizes in each design can be ordered.
Can I take photos?
We do allow photos; however, it is recommended that you don’t take any, only because they aren’t taken by a professional photographer and so what you feel at the time of trying a dress on and what you see in a photo may differ and therefore this will make things harder with the decision-making process.
I’ve said yes! What is the process?
If you say yes to the dress, you will be measured up and the size we order will be discussed with you. A deposit of 50% will be needed as a down payment. The balance will be due on dress arrival.
Dresses usually take around 6-12 months to come in, certain designers can stock certain sizes in dresses, but this is never guaranteed. Lead times can vary per designer.
While you are waiting on the dress, you will receive lots of information from us about the next stages of the process including everything you will need to know about our recommended seamstress.
Once the dress arrives, you will be notified and then you will need to come in and collect and pay the remaining balance.
Who does my alterations?
We have a recommended third party who does all our alterations, however if you choose to use your own seamstress that is absolutely fine. If you choose to go with our seamstress, we recommend having your first fitting 6-8 weeks before, and your second 2 weeks before the wedding.
What happens when all my alterations are finished?
When the dress is finished, you will need to book another appointment with us to then have the dress steamed, this is done whilst you wait and is all part of the service at Ava Louise Bridal Wear.
