A FAMILY business is bursting with ‘bride’ after celebrating four decades of business in Colchester.
The Wedding Shop was opened by husband-and-wife team Les and Jean Coverdale, in 1980.
Having started in a small converted shop in East Street, opposite the Siege House, the business soon outgrew its premises and moved into St John’s Street, being taken over by daughter Nicola Garton.
As it continued to flourish, the business moved again in 2012 and is now based in a four-storey building in the High Street, opposite Fenwick.
Meet the team - The Wedding Shop staff
With 16 team members, the shop sells wedding dresses, occasion wear and matching hats.
“We’re celebrating 40 years in business,” said a proud Mrs Garton, who lives in Lexden.
“Being in a beautiful four-storey building has allowed our business to flourish and gives the brides and their families a truly memorable experience.
“The last year has certainly been challenging, with all our lovely brides having to put their weddings on hold.
Early days - Les and Jean Coverdale outside their shop in 1981
“However, we’ve been supporting them behind the scenes and moved fitting dates on many occasions, telling them we can alter dresses at short notice.
“We’ve also reassured brides and mums yet to choose their dresses that there’s still time.
“The future’s looking bright and we’ve had the most amazing makeover during lockdown.
“Brides have loved the new space on the bridal floor and we’re now a licensed premises, so can offer brides and mums the ultimate luxury champagne appointments.
Bride of place - The Wedding Shop, in Colchester’s High Street
“Who doesn’t deserve a special treat after lockdown?
“Since we’ve reopened, the community has been amazing.
“Someone left a comment on our Facebook page saying how much they loved our window display and that we added some glamour to the High Street.”
Mrs Garton says she feels privileged to share “special moments” with brides and parents.
Plenty of choice - the shop's occasion wear department
“It’s always such a special moment when a bride chooses her dress and even more so when they tell us their mum bought her gown from us over 30 years ago,” she said.
“To be part of those moments that have been carried down through generations is truly wonderful.
“We’re very blessed to be a part of such a journey.”
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