Let’s do this Together…
Your Appointment
Congratulations on your forthcoming wedding! I am absolutely delighted that you are considering visiting us. I would love it if you would give me the opportunity to help you find your dream dress.Maidens and Ravens is open by appointment so if you know when you want to come in, please contact me using the booking button to arrange an appointment.
When you contact me, I will send you details of my forthcoming availability, but do please let me know if you have any particular dates or times in mind and I will try to accommodate them if possible! I understand people work at different times so please ask if normal shop opening times do not work for you.
I only ever have one bride in the boutique at a time and do not open for other customer to do general browsing when you are with us. I make sure you have my undivided attention with no unwanted visitors traipsing in that may make you feel uncomfortable. I want you to have a relaxed and enjoyable experience!
On Arrival
When you arrive, you can get settled with a drink and we will then have a chat about your wedding, your plans, your preferred styles and what you are looking for. I will tell you about the dresses then you can pick your favourites to try on! I will also pick some out for you. I do have a knack for picking a wildcard dress which can often end up being THE dress which is always fun!
What to Expect
I don’t do any silly limits on the numbers of dresses you try or have rules about taking photographs or wearing gloves. I just ask that you do not wear fake tan or too much makeup to the appointment for obvious reasons.
I deliberately do not charge or take deposits for appointments but in return, I do ask that you please let me know as soon as possible if you need to cancel so I have the opportunity of offering the appointment to someone else, especially on busy days like Saturdays.
I have a little changing room to use, and you will always have plenty of privacy. I will step in to help fasten you into the dress. I have seen lots of bodies – we are all different – and you will always be welcomed and respected here. I do not tolerate body shaming – I embrace all my brides, and I promise you, every one of you can look incredible.
I will encourage you to try on assorted styles so you get a real feel for what you like and don’t like and hopefully with my help, you will find a dress that makes you feel amazing.
After the Appointment
I don’t do the hard sell. That’s not my style. Your appointment will be relaxed and enjoyable and hopefully you will find your perfect dress.But if you cannot make a decision there and then, then that is absolutely fine too. Many brides need a bit of breathing space to think and come to a decision and you are always more than welcome to come back again to retry on your favourites again with a clear head, to decide. Also be aware, that not every bride has a moment with a particular dress – in fact, it is not uncommon to love two completely different dresses and be struggling to decide between them!
When you have Found your Dress
Once you have chosen your dress, you will normally pay for it before you leave. With our commissioned for you dresses as these are especially made for you, I require a 50% deposit to order it, and the balance is then payable when your dress arrives into the boutique.
Please note that due to the nature of the purchase, all of our dresses are non-refundable. If on the very rare occasion you change your mind about your dress, then I recommend getting in touch and I will always do my best to help. I want you to be happy and confident with your choice.
We can then do a “I said yes to the dress” picture of you and your entourage if you want! This is completely optional but can be a nice memory!
Normally your dress will stay with me in the boutique until you sort your first fitting appointment out. If you are going to use a local seamstress, then I will take your dress to them in readiness for your appointment which means you can go direct to them.
If you are using your own preferred seamstress, then you are welcome to take the dress away with you or we can arrange for you to come back to pick it up at a later date. I can also send it to you by courier if easier for you.
I will stay in touch between your appointment and your wedding so you can ask me any questions. I am always happy to give you recommendations, advice on accessories and a second opinion on anything if required. I never get bored talking weddings so you can feel free to message me if you need any advice.
After your Wedding
I never get bored of seeing my queens on their special day! Do feel free to send me your wedding pictures as I love to see you on your wedding day when everything has come together. Feel free to send me the entire album – I can pretend I am at your wedding!