It’s all change at Brides & Belles Dalbeattie. “We’re re-branding to Isobel Florence Bridal,” reveals co-owner Julie Wong. “I’m keen to do this to echo my mother’s name, so that she’ll still be a part of my life. She passed away before we opened the store and it means a great deal to me to honour her in this way. Sadly, she never got to see us open the store, and, this way, it allows her to be involved in some way.”
Not content with a complete overhaul of image and moniker, the boutique is also in the process of ushering in its first batch of designs from the fashion force that is Ian Stuart Bride. “The introduction of Ian Stuart will elevate us into the couture arena,” she says. “We’re stocking a combination of new and classic styles, including Pracatan [pictured below left], Beltane, Silver Screen, Papillon, Dorchester [below right], Donatella [above left] Soutache [above right], Copacabana and Hawaii.
“I absolutely love them now that they’re arrived. They’re just so unique and the quality is phenomenal. Papillon is my personal favourite because it’s the dress that first made me fall in love with Ian Stuart’s work, but I think Donatella and Dorchester will be big hits with brides. Some of his designs are really out there, but these are slightly more understated and classic.
“It’s still early days but we’ve had a lot of interest already and I’m so excited for the future.”
We’re sure your mama would be proud.