The Boutique
Maidens & Ravens is a pretty little boutique situated on historic Micklegate, through the bar walls, which is the traditional royal entrance to the city of York.
Maidens & Ravens is a pretty little boutique situated on historic Micklegate, through the bar walls, which is the traditional royal entrance to the city of York.
The street is described as one of the most handsome in York and is home to beautiful book shops and lovely places to eat. It has been used as a location for many period dramas due to the Georgian building and cobbles.
Small but perfectly formed, Maidens & Ravens is definitely not your traditional grey and white bridal shop! The vibe is colourful and pretty, a bit vintage, with a little darkness and lots of curious details. I do not do minimalist style here!
When you book in with me you will have this beautiful space completely to yourself and my aim is to give you an experience to remember. Like my dresses, I wanted the boutique to be unique, and this is definitely reflected in my choice of everything from the beautiful wallpaper to the lighting. Look out for the ravens...
The nearest carpark to Maidens & Ravens is Nunnery Lane, and we are about 5 minutes’ walk from the train station. If driving from out of York, the park and ride is advisable.
As with much of York, our building is old, and the entrance to the shop is a little narrow. There is one very low step to get inside which is still accessible by wheelchair and with a buggy. Maidens & Ravens is situated on Micklegate which does have some limited paid parking outside for up to 2 hours on a first come first served basis. I will always do whatever I can to help so please feel free to ask if you need any specific assistance.
Almost all bridalwear will need some alterations. We work closely with a number of local seamstresses who we highly recommend and will give you their details at your appointment. You are free to use someone else if you prefer.
Some brides leave it last minute and some buy a year or even two before! There is no right time. Do bear in mind that it is likely you will need a few fitting appointments for any alterations before your wedding so give yourself enough time for them. Our Treasure Trove dresses can be bought off the peg of but we only have one of each so if you see one you love don’t delay! Our commissioned for you dressed take around 4 months to make for you so ideally, we would suggest that you come in ideally at least 8 months before your wedding if you want all of the options.
Definitely not! We love alternative styles, and our Raven collection might be right up your street with colourful and not so traditional designs. We can help you create your own dress if you have something specific in mind and we are full of ideas as to how a dress can be customised especially for you. Whatever your style or budget, do come and see us!
We get you completely! Please do not worry. I have seen all shapes and sizes, ages and styles. I firmly believe there is a dress for everyone, and my job is to help you find it! Come by yourself if you prefer. I give you plenty of privacy when trying on and you will have the boutique all to yourself. I promise you that you will have a relaxed and enjoyable experience. I pride myself in being size inclusive and I am definitely not one of those stuffy look down your nose ladies!
Ask yourself why you want her there. You need to have space to try on dresses – some of which will make you feel amazing and others not so much. You need a supportive voice not a critical one. I am more than happy for you to book in by yourself initially to narrow down your options and then you can bring mum in to see the final few if you prefer. I will not have body shaming in the boutique, so I am quite happy to tactfully remind her that it’s all about you and what makes you feel special. Remember, I am on your side even if she is not.
That is absolutely fine! Come alone – I will look after you and we will have a wonderful time – I promise. Many of my favourite appointments have been with my bride by herself or bride and one other and they tend to be quieter with much more opportunity to explore what you love rather than what everyone else wants you to try. Do not feel pressured to bring a group if that’s not what you want. I will be honest and your biggest cheerleader and will help you find a dress that you feel amazing in even if you have no idea what you want.
Of course! Having one or two trusted and supportive people can definitely be a help. We have seating for three people to accompany the bride. We would not normally recommend bringing too many people to your appointment as it can become overwhelming with too many different opinions. You are also welcome to come alone and many of our brides prefer to do this.
The boutique is a unique and pretty little building situated on historic Micklegate which is the traditional entrance to the city of York. York city centre is small and pedestrianised so if you are driving from further afield and planning to stay for the day, we would recommend using the Park and Ride. We are about 5 minutes’ walk from the train station. Our nearest carpark is Nunnery Lane. There is some limited paid parking on Micklegate and Priory Street on a first come first served basis.
Our nearest carpark is Nunnery Lane, and we are about 5 minutes’ walk from the train station. If driving from out of York, the park and ride is advisable.
Fill out our form to book your appointment and I will be in touch to confirm your appointment and answer any questions you may have.