Prior to me starting wedding dress shopping, I always imagined that I would have a lace backless dress. That was all to change! Went I stepped in a boutique for the first time and met the helpful assistant she picked something totally different for me to try. Personally, always having a larger chest, I tended to stay away from strapless tops and dresses as I have never before had the support I needed. I tried on about 3 dresses before I found my perfect Ronald Joyce dress, the 'Amanda' and I just knew it was the one. It was a style that I wouldn’t have ever picked without trying it on. My dress was purchased from the Bridal Lounge in Poulton Le Fylde.

When I tried on the dress, I instantly knew that it felt right. It fitted perfectly and had the support I really needed. I knew I didn’t have to worry about finding a bra which was such a relief for me. At the shop I had my mum, my future mother-in-law and my nan and they all instantly fell in love with everything about the dress. The fit and especially the style and material which seems to be more popular than ever especially with Meghan Markle’s royal wedding dress being so publicly adored. The day of my wedding my dress was hung up and the photographer took it out of the bag to be photographed. She said it was one of her favourite dresses as it was so different. I worked very hard in the gym on the lead up to my wedding knowing that the dress was such a tight fit. When the time came to finally put my dress on after having my hair and make-up done, it all came together perfectly.

I teamed my dress with a white pair of Valentino’s that my husband’s best man had dropped off as a wedding gift, some beautiful earrings from my mum and a simple diamond bracelet from one of my best friends who was unable to attend the wedding. To finish the look one of my bridesmaids lent me her beautiful veil. I honestly felt amazing and really didn’t want to ever take the dress off.

So of course, my top tip for brides-to-be is to try on everything and see what suits you. Go along to a professional wedding gown boutique and let the experienced assistants help you. Be really open and if you think something isn’t for you, just try it anyway and enjoy your time dress shopping. Take along your mum or best friend, someone who’s opinion you can trust.

I you haven’t yet found your dream dress take a look at our latest designs from Ronald Joyce and the Victoria Jane Collection.