Michaela and the Start of Clifton Brides
Posted on 27th November 2017 at 19:37
It all began with me, a feisty , determined 18 year old with some intensive sales training in a large retail company wanting to run my own business. With my childhood dancing influences and creative side and a mother as a dance teacher of some 30 years and seamstress we joined forces and our first little shop opened back in 1989 in Weston-super-Mare.
It soon became clear that this wasn't the right location and I wanted to grow the business quickly so we ventured to Clifton , where Clifton Brides was founded !
Working with brides over the last 28 years has been a wonderful honour and despite life's challenges along the way , I love meeting so many different people , making new acquaintances, and creating a wonderful memory that remains always and obviously finding the perfect dress!
The passion and creative eye required for bridal , can't be taught or learnt on a course, its something you have. Perhaps being surrounded by costumes , dance and performances as a teenager I took part in and organised I think has been the basis and transition to bridal.
One of my fave dresses "Tiffany" modelled by me back in the day 1997
1992 - Whoa! When bustles and flouncy sleeves were BIG!
Throwback to 1996!
Inside the boutique now 2018
We have occupied the beautiful location opposite Clifton Downs since 1994 and love the vibe of Whiteladies Road. Out of the busy city centre , with plenty of space around us and a private forecourt ,we have a perfect location.We have made many changes to the boutique over the years, with two lovely private changing and viewing areas for brides to enjoy a totally private experience when choosing their dress. Plenty of natural daylight too through the huge double fronted windows . There is a warm , cosy, feel to the boutique where brides and their families can feel relaxed and looked after.
A wonderful part of my job is spending days away at the buying events held in various destinations around the UK and Europe sourcing new styles to add to our collections.
I always believe in being true to myself when choosing dresses for Clifton Brides as we have become known for having something a little different , without being too way out!! I definitely go for the more timeless classic dresses rather than the "fashion now" styles .
Buying Trip Luxury
Yes we'll have this too
Choosing 2018 dresses
My gorgeous husband and complete rock!
Mum and I at the NEC 2016...out of her retirement box again
Its a real privilege to work on such a personal level with hundreds of brides each year , and nothing is better than finding a bride "The dress" especially when its nothing like she thought she'd wear!
Having two young daughters myself, who love coming in to give their opinion on current dresses, they will hopefully carry on the Clifton Brides name for many years to come , but for now its here's to the next 10/20/years .
Mum "retired" three years ago , but often likes to come back and work the odd day as she , like me has "bridal in the blood". Ask anyone who works in the industry , and they all say you're either in it for a couple of years or you're in it for life!
If you have any memories to share with us of your time at Clifton Brides , please do send them over , as I want to have as many pictures of all my brides over the years to make into the biggest memory book ever!!
Thank you for reading my little intro blog and I'm looking forward to sharing all yours soon.
Please send your blog submissions to me at Michaela@cliftonbrides.co.uk
Two finalists, then a winner
Outside of the boutique 2017
Tagged as: About Clifton Brides, About Michaela
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