A bridal boutique owner from Preston has been helping brides-to-be say “yes to the dress” with virtual appointments.

Lottie Derham, who owns Lottie’s Bridal Boutique on the Fylde coast, wanted to make sure brides-to-be could still find the all-important dress during lockdown.

Ex-Preston’s College student Lottie said: “As a bridal retailer we shut with all other non-essential shops back in March, and the wedding industry as a whole ground to a halt.

“There was disappointment, upset and panic as couples tried to work their way through what they could do for their big day. 

“As a limited company director, my only choice was to furlough myself. I thought it was important to stay present not only on social media and contact channels, but most importantly for my couples so that I could help, advise and sometimes just be an ear to listen.

“This meant I had to think of ways to help brides who had not yet found their dress and keep my much-loved business going.”

At this point, Lottie decided to start offering virtual appointments.

She said: “The brides got to try the dresses on in the comfort of their own homes, and had the dresses for a couple of days too.

“It’s been a completely unique and brilliant experience. Brides have had the ability to still choose their dress, and I’ve still been in the world of weddings making happy memories, which I love so much.”

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Lottie has so far delivered dresses to brides-to-be across Lancashire, including in Preston, Lostock Hall and Longton.

Success stories include bride-to-be Emily, whose Mum lives abroad and had had a trip home postponed. Emily was able to try on dresses with her Mum via Zoom.

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Lottie is now looking forward to being able to re-open her shop in early July.

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What do you think of virtual wedding dress appointments? Could you imagine finding your dress that way? Let us know in the comments?