CHOOSING the perfect wedding dress can be a very difficult decision for brides-to-be, with many styles, designs and shades to pick from.
But Sade Parker, who previously worked in social care, has embarked on a new venture and is hoping to take the stress away with her new boutique's collection of dresses.
SJP Bridal, in College Street, will be opening its doors for the very first time tomorrow with an array of attire for everybody.
Sade said: "I previously worked in social care and this is the first time I have done anything like this. I am very excited and slightly nervous, too.
"I recently got married and when looking for my dress, I felt something was missing from the whole experience, such as a boutique. This experience is very special for women and their families and friends who come with them. When I was looking for my dress, many shops would just have lines of dresses and it is very confusing."
But Sade, who tied the knot in Stroud, is hoping to keep a small number of dresses in store to make that all-important decision easier for brides with the jitters.
She added: "SJP Bridal will have around 16 dresses that will offer different styles. We have teamed up with Busy Needles, in Worcester Street, who will carry out any alterations needed. We wanted to choose somebody local and they have a lot of experience.
"We are based near Gloucester Cathedral which is such a beautiful location. We will be selling dresses from the 2016 collection, so they will be very up-to-date in terms of fashion and trends."
It seems the vintage theme is still very popular for couples, as well as lace and mesh dresses which continue to be a hit with brides-to-be. Sade added: "Vintage is still huge and button-back dresses are selling well, too; they are making a comeback. It is not just the traditional colours brides are picking, many are choosing ivory oatmeal, pale pink and even purple."
Award-winning wedding planner Jane Riddell from Highnam said brides should be open to different styles.
She said: "Keep your options open to styles and designs, listen to expert suggestions from the boutique owners and you may surprise yourself by loving a dress that you didn't expect to suit you.
"Know your body shape. A dress in a magazine looks totally different on a model so be sure to choose a dress that's flattering for your figure."
