5 fabulous bridal boutiques from Herts & Beds to help you say 'Yes to the dress'!

LOTTE ROSE BRIDAL
Lotte Rose Bridal is a modern studio in the heart of Bedfordshire, which offers a new and fun addition to the bridal scene. The small business has created the perfect space for everyone and when brides arrive at the store, they'll get to hang out in the pink Instagramable spaces that include dried flowers and comfortable seating. They then get to chat with the team about the special day and what they're after. Why not make the experience even more special with the company's Cakes and Cocktails Package and enjoy some delicious treats while searching for the one?

Every gown is handpicked by the owner Charlotte Izzard-Cook from certain designers and is perfect for modern and fashionable brides. There's also plenty of accessories to pick from that are all handmade by small UK designers. When brides-to-be find their dream dress, the company will plant a tree in each customer's name to thank them for their purchase while giving back to the environment.

The company stocks a range of designers include Vera Wang Bride, Pronovias, Morilee, Evie Young Bridal and Riki Dalal Bridal. The newest addition is By Watters, a brand that provides the perfect gowns for micro weddings and engagement celebrations.

The boutique also offers a small collection of ready-to-wear dresses, perfect for brides who don't havetime to order a gown. Sizes in the studio are between eight to 22, with orders available in sizes two to 30.

Check out: www.lotterosebridal.co.uk

TRENDS FOR 2022
The company owner Charlotte Izzard-Cook says, "Visible corsetry is going to be very popular in 2022 with a regal and Bridgerton-inspired look. Think dreamy yet refined gowns with layered ruffles and voluminous skirts. Another trend will be ballet details including, tutu-inspired skirts, sheer details and lots of bows and ribbons. High necklines will also be a hit with modern Grace Kelly vibes paired with a fashionable twist that looks regal yet romantic.

Dress credit: Elysee

HERITAGE BRIDES
Located in a magical woodland barn, Heritage Brides specialises in whimsical and boho-style gowns that are generally light, flowy and quirky.

After opening in 2014, customers are blown away by the beautiful space that adds to their magical experience. The company is of the elite retailers for Willowby and Wtoo by Watters, each of the romantic gown brands epitomising what Heritage Brides stands for. With a whole rainbow palette of colours and tones available, brides don't just have to pick ivory dresses as blush shades are very popular, and this will continue into next year.

For the sassy and daring brides-to-be, the Enzoani collections will be perfect. Many of these breathtaking gowns feature a statement train and will look so stunning in photographs.

All designers stocked at the Hatfield House-based boutique can be ordered in sizes to cater for all, and most of the gowns retail for less than £2,000. There's also a specific range of Watters gowns, which have been introduced for curvy brides too. Only one appointment takes place at a time to allow the team to dedicate their attention to one client without any distractions. The staff will offer exceptional customer service while focusing on everything brides want.

Check out: www.heritagebrides.co.uk

TRENDS FOR 2022
The company's owner Sam Newby-Ricci says, "Say goodbye to the plunging neckline and welcome in the squared-off bodice in 2022. Splits in skirts are staying on trend next year as well as puffy and detachable sleeves. Classic Mikado gowns will never grow boring, and with pockets and hundreds of buttons it will remain a staple style."

Shop: The Ivory Wardrobe

THE IVORY WARDROBE
Located in Woburn Sands, The Ivory Wardrobe has been providing brides with stunning gowns since 2010. The team offer an appointment service to spend time getting to know each bride over the two-hour session.

The boutique's owner, Laura Buckingham-Brown, has more than 18 years' experience and is full of knowledge. She says, "The Ivory Wardrobe is my passion; I love getting to know my brides and sharing their wedding journey with them."

With designer gowns by Maggie Sottero, Rebecca Ingram and Kelsey Rose, the company can cater for all budgets up to £2,500 with sample sizes in 10 to 26.

Every bride is different, and the boutique focuses on this. The team works with brides-to-be from day one and offers free storage plus an in-house alteration service.

Check out: www.theivorywardrobe.co.uk

TRENDS FOR 2022
The company's owner Laura Buckingham-Brown says, "There's a real buzz for 2022 and 2023 weddings as things return to normal. Full skirts, lots of detail and some beautiful straps and sleeve details are my favourite trends. With more options to personalise gowns, brides are now able to get that bespoke look they've dreamed of."