CLIFTON BRIDES Where Bristol The Boss Michaela Gair When opened 1994 in Bristol, but established in 1989
Labels carried Lillian West, Madison James, Alan Hannah, Eliza Jane Howell. Since doors have reopened Definitely busier – brides more focused and ready to order. What’s in demand Boho feel still a ‘vibe’ but nothing too outlandish! Less plunging necklines, and definitely a feature back. Budgets – any big changes Budgets didn’t seem to have decreased; we’re finding brides are happy to spend a little more. How is your appointment book looking Looking good, and filling up fast. How are you reaching out to potential customers Most of our business is word of mouth from other brides. Also, we have lots of nurses and doctors from the local hospitals, so word spreads. Could your suppliers be doing more in the way of support Suppliers on the whole are very
accommodating and helpful, while others a little rigid on ‘policies’. Loan service is a great addition and really helps. Which exhibitions are you planning to attend We will likely just do our annual trip to Harrogate. Are your new brides planning to marry this year, or beyond We have a lot of enquiries for 2023
weddings, but in the main the brides aren’t ready to buy. The majority are for summer 2022. How do you think this year will roll out We are really looking forward to 2022. Covid is with us and we have adapted well, and so far weddings are back and brides are planning and being positive. Your New Year resolution for your business Well I guess it’s to stop fretting about social media. You know, looking at our order books, getting thousands of likes and followers doesn’t make a good business! We’ve been going over 30 years and actually I would say that 2021, despite the bumps, has been one of our best years in the last five or so.
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