Meet the lovely Debbie, owner of Somerset Bridal

Meet Debbie, owner of Somerset Bridal...

Tell us about your boutique and what makes you different?
We ask brides to imagine a bridal boutique that does not judge them on their size – that's us! We back this promise up with dresses from the world's best designers and in samples sizes that will actually fit. We are experts in body-positive bridal.

We do have rules though..
- No diet/weight talk  
- No Criticism of anybody's size or shape
- No discrimination relating to our brides' choices
- All bodies are good bodies so no shaming allowed.
- And the most important rule, which is 100 per cent non-negotiable: brides must laugh, dance and enjoy themselves.

Our boutique looks a bit different to your standard boutique – not a hint of pink in sight! We have monkeys, a jungle print changing room and a gold gin bar; it's all very fun, beautiful and unique – just like our brides.

What's your background and why did you launch your business?
Like many bridal shop owners, and as a larger bride, I had so few choices six years ago when looking for my gown. I ended up wearing a really unflattering dress that I hated. I never want this to happen to any other brides, so five years ago Somerset Bridal was born.

What are you looking forward to most about reopening?
Seeing our fantastic brides again, they really all do become friends and they have had such a hard time I just want us to be that sanctuary where they can forget about the hard times we have all had and reconnect with their wedding plans.

Is there anything new happening in your business?
We have taken on a new designer during lockdown, Pronovias, which we are just so excited about. I have had a crush on this designer for years, the gowns are impeccably designed and luxurious. We constantly evolve the experience our brides get and there are some surprises in store – but you have to be a bride to find out about them!

What's your top tip for brides looking for their wedding dress?
Research the boutiques you are going to visit; brides are choosing to visit fewer boutiques so make them the right ones. Ring ahead and chat to the owners, check out their sample sizes and make sure they feel like people you want to spend time around.

Debbie | www.somersetbridal.co.uk