Real Bride, Thirza wearing Wendy Makin ‘Florence’
Gorgeous Thirza came to Lavender & Jude as a last minute decision, mainly to confirm her decision in another boutique was the right one. We spent a lovely appointment together just the two of us, me helping Thirza come out of her comfort zone and encouraging her to explore a little and feel more confident about herself and her body. After that appointment Thirza left to process everything and thankfully returned with her decision makers and said “Yes” to the fabulous Florence by Wendy Makin.
Here in Thirzas own words is her experience at Lavender & Jude and some helpful tips for future brides-to-be. Thankyou so much Thirza for writing such a beautiful blog. Truly grateful to you xoxo
On a cold December Saturday morning I saw an Instagram post for an appointment at Lavender & Jude for that afternoon. I messaged and asked if it was still available and had a quick reply. We had booked our wedding the month before for the 06.11.24 at Elms Barns.
I had visited one wedding dress shop so far but hadn’t really decided on anything. I had decided to go on my own, but Claire had invited me via the message that I could bring up to 4 people to the appointment. I really didnt want to go to any big wedding dress shops and liked the idea of visiting smaller independant ones. I loved the location of Lavender & Jude being in Southwold and it was one of my late Mum’s favourite places so really felt special to me visiting this dress shop. I arrived at Lavender & Jude, and I wasn’t disappointed, the shop is beautifully presented and very claming and relaxing. Claire was ready and waiting to meet me. She introduced herself to me and we had a chat about how I wanted to feel on my wedding day and what kind of dress I thought I might like. I am a person who doesn’t like trying things on in shops and do struggle with body image. But I straight away felt relaxed and at ease with Claire. She is certainly very passionate and clearly really loves what she does.
Claire picked out several dresses for me which I tried on, she took her time, gave advice, didnt rush me. At the end of the appointment, I had narrowed the choice down to a couple of dresses but really felt that the purchase of my wedding dress would be from Lavender & Jude, It just felt right! Claire didn’t put any pressure on me at all and was helpful with arranging another visit. I visited the shop later in December this time with a second opinion as I had my daughter and sister with me. It was lovely to see Claire again and re-cap on my previous visit and the dresses that I had liked. I again tried the ones that we had narrowed down, I tried on Wendy Makins Florence dress again and really fell in love with it, it is a beautfiul dress and fely elegant but so comfortable to wear and even had pockets!!
It was exactly what I was looking for with the sleeves and fitted in with the autumnal theme I was hoping to create for our wedding day. Claire helped me accessorise this dress with a gorgeous pearly veil. It was at this point I knew I had found the one!
Claire was amazing throughout the process from start to finish and even offered me advice on underwear too, sharing with me websites and types of underwear she thought would be suitable. Her knowledge and expertise are endless. I felt like she really cares and certainly wants the best for all her brides. I would recommend Lavender & Jude to any bride to be, the service from Claire is exceptional, her communication is excellent and so nice to visit a small independent shop in the lovely seaside town of Southwold.
My advice to any bride to be is enjoy every moment from planning to the big day. Take your time when choosing your wedding dress and choose what makes you feel special.
Try not to stress too much (easier said than done) and be as organised as you possibly can, this all helps to creating the most perfect wedding day.
Suppliers for Thirzas wedding were,
Venue Elms Barn
Photographer Hannah Betts
Mua Lovemoi makeup
Hair Jemma at Lavish Hair salon
Venue Styling, props & decor Epic Events Norfolk & The Rustic Wedding House
Grooms Suit Trotter & Deane
