LUXURY BRIDAL WEAR
FOR THE MODERN BRIDE
Lisa Veitch has created a truly luxurious bridal wear shop in the village of Barrowford, Gail Bailey visited to find out more
A solicitor by profession, and still practising until a few days before opening, Lisa Veitch’s new business, Elisa Belle Bridal Boutique, is a fabulous new shopping experience for the bride-to-be, which really does bring city style and luxury to the Ribble Valley.
It was when looking for her bridal gown that the concept of opening her own shop came to Lisa: “About five years ago I had considered opening a bridal boutique, but the timing wasn’t just right,” Lisa explains.
“But when I began to shop for my own dress and ended up in Manchester and London, it re-ignited my idea. I decided I wanted to recreate that high end luxury experience for local brides-to-be and bring to the area the fabulous variety of bridal wear that I knew was out there.”
Some of the exquisite gowns that adorn the rails include British designers such as leading designer Stephanie Allin, Sassi Holford, renowned for celebrating the female form and individuality, Halfpenny London who design stunning, modern dresses and Caroline Castigliano, who has been at the forefront of British bridal design for nearly three decades.
“I wanted to create a luxurious but relaxed and very personable experience for brides,” Lisa says. “It’s a very special time and no-one should ever feel intimidated or rushed when choosing their dream dress. The experience is everything.”
Lisa grew up in a retail environment, having worked in her mother’s designer children’s wear shops from an early age. Lisa would often help with buying and relished the opportunity of attending international trade fairs in London and Italy: “I have been brought up in retail, so this really is a natural progression for me, and one I feel very passionate about.”
The building itself which houses the boutique is iconic, and the interior has been designed with such style that it has completely brought it back to life. As you walk through the door you immediately feel at ease, with the amazing high ceilings, original beams and stunning open fireplaces, along with plush sofas and lovely big spaces to try on the dresses.
“One of the best things about buying from a British designer is that the gowns can be tailored to any customer’s requirements,” Lisa says.
“Whether it’s the bodice, the fabric, design or colour, the designers we use are just a phone call away and pride themselves on being able to offer a bespoke and very personal service.”
Lisa will be hosting ‘Trunk Shows’ with all her chosen designers over the coming months. This will see a full collection of each designer’s styles available in store over chosen weekends.
Representatives from each brand, and in some cases the designer themselves, will be available to offer brides their expert help in choosing their perfect gown.
Lisa explains that the designers are ‘hands-on’ and love working directly with clients: “Sassi Holford, whilst famous for designing English couture wedding gowns is wonderful at helping brides choose their perfect dress. She has created many dresses for famous and even royal brides, including Alex Jones, Emily Andre and Autumn Phillips. Many celebrities also wear Sassi’s designs for the red carpet, and Holly Willoughby is often seen wearing her gorgeous creations.”
Lisa is especially excited to bring the fabulous designs of Halfpenny London, to the Ribble Valley: “Created by Kate Halfpenny in 2005 Halfpenny London has become one of the UK’s leading luxury bridalwear brands. Coveted by the fashion elite, Halfpenny London weaves Brit cool with a luxe sensibility, creating innovative, chic dresses and separates for the modern woman. I am so thrilled to be able to offer this exclusive, and incredibly stylish, label to local brides.”
Barrowford itself, just off the M65, is a fabulous small, select village with history, heritage and home-grown businesses at its core. There is a very supportive and collaborative feel about the village with a host of independent shops, florists and restaurants lining the high street – once people have sampled what Barrowford has to offer they tend to always come back!
Open Monday through to Saturday, and with Sundays and evenings available by appointment, Elisa Belle Bridal Boutique really is the most beautiful shop to find a dream wedding dress.
“We want brides to be able to have a fabulous experience trying something different without having to travel to the city,” Lisa says. At Elisa Belle Bridal Boutique, you really can be the bride you want to be.
Elisa Belle Bridal Boutique
18 Gisburn Road
Barrowford
Lancashire BB9 8NB
01282 616413
lisa@elisabellebridal.com
www.elisabellebridal.com
