If you're anything like me, you love wedding dresses - I could honestly spend all day trying on stunning gowns! Well, I was lucky enough to immerse myself in bridal heaven the other week when I visited Tanya at Lucia Veil, the newest bridal boutique in Tunbridge Wells, which opened in August 2022.
As soon as I walked in I was immediately wowed by the beautiful decor; Tanya has really put a lot of thought into creating a welcoming environment for her brides. It was a cold January day, but the boutique was beautifully warm - there is nothing worse than having to get dressed in a freezing room! Tanya has thought of everything - there was plenty of space to hang up your coats and brollies, warm rugs, comfortable seating areas and snacks (as well as the usual bubbles!).
A Lucia Veil bride is someone who is looking for individuality and romance, whilst also being daring and wanting something a bit different and sparkly. I can confirm - the dresses at the boutique tick all of these boxes, they were beautifully embellished with sparkle to suit any taste! Tanya stocks international designers Jane Hill, Enzoani, Enzoani Blue, Miss Scarlett and Zavana amongst others; designers who are great at creating dresses for the modern, daring bride. Tanya's passion for finding her brides the perfect dress was evident, she came alive describing how amazing she wants her brides to feel in their dresses.
Tanya not only stocks wedding dresses in her boutique, but she also has an array of veils for brides to choose from, having designed a number of the veils herself! One thing I really admire about Tanya is that she knows exactly who her brides are; she's taking this one step further by releasing her own collection of dresses which will be appearing in Spring 2023.
Tanya's Top Tips for Wedding Dress Shopping:
Leave enough time to order your dress. Tanya recommends that you start looking for your dress about 9-12 months before your wedding date. Dresses can take about 4-6 months to come in to store, then you need to leave time for any alterations.
Know your budget and research the shop before you book an appointment. When you're there, don't be shy to say your maximum budget and what you're comfortable with. You don't want to put a dress on and fall in love, only to realise that it is way out of budget.
Have a clear idea of the designers and styles that you like before you go shopping. You want to go to a store that actually stocks the designer or style of dress that you like. But be open to trying a wild card - it may take your fancy, or just confirm what you already knew!
Consider your wedding when choosing your dress. You need to pick a style of dress that goes with your wedding - from your venue, the time of year that you're getting married, what colours you're having, even to what the top table is going to be like.
Don't be stuck on classic ivory, although it is a timeless choice, brides are now looking for different tones; for example nude and ivory, ivory and champagne or blush and ivory. Ivory tones are on trend at the moment - and actually suit people more.
Bring 2 or 3 people to your appointment, too many opinions can make it harder to find your dream dress. You want to bring people who will build your confidence, and will give you supportive feedback.
Choose your veil carefully, so that it goes with the style of dress that you've picked. If you have a minimalistic dress, then you can have a dramatic veil; or choose a paired down veil for a more embellished dress.
When you book a bridal appointment at Lucia Veil, you know that you are going to be looked after. Tanya is there to support and assist you whilst you find your dream dress; she brings together your ideas from Pinterest to finesse your vision. As much as purchasing a wedding gown is the bride's ultimate decision, Tanya was keen to point out that she understands that the friends and family you've invited to your appointment also matter. You won't feel happy in your dress if those you care about aren't feeling it too. Tanya was also keen to reiterate, not all brides get that 'wow' moment, some people need time to go away and think - something that she encourages if the bride isn't 100% sure.
I had such a lovely afternoon getting to know Tanya and Lucia Veil more; I would highly recommend the boutique to any bride who wants to be sexy and daring, whilst also romantic. I'm secretly hoping that I can pop back in to the boutique to have a trying on session myself!!
If you're looking to purchase your wedding gown, then get in touch with Tanya now to book your appointment! If you'd like help with planning your entire wedding, including finding that dream dress, then send me a message to book in a free call!
Thank you Tanya for welcoming me in to your beautiful boutique x