On a mission to bring a boutique selection of designer-label gowns to North Queensland, Michelle Haydon says ‘all the pretty dresses’ make her job a delight.
A believer in quality over quantity Michelle Haydon, Director of the Bridal Palace, only stocks gowns she’s proud of.
“Our fitting room is designed to cater to one bride at a time, to get away from the feeling of being just another customer in a shop,” Michelle says.
“Brides and their mothers, aunties, sisters and friends can come in and enjoy our personal wardrobe of gowns. We’re also firm believers in cups of tea, glasses of bubbles and cheese. Most labels give their gowns a woman’s name, which I feel gives them their own personality. Some are meek and modest, while others are dramatic and extravagant, and I love how that can reflect a bride’s personality.”
As well as offering a selection of on-trend gowns, Bridal Palace has a label capable of a six-week turnaround.
“One of our brides had purchased a gown (not from Townsville) that wasn’t what it was supposed to be,” Michelle says.
“She came in with eight weeks until her wedding and no dress. She found a gown from a local label that we were able to get made in six weeks, with some tweaks that made it hers. The moment in the fitting room that she realised she had a solution brought on happy tears all round.”
“Brides and their mothers, aunties, sisters and friends can come in and enjoy our personal wardrobe of gowns.” – Michelle Haydon
Michelle says she becomes invested in her brides, who can trust her for open, honest advice.
“I’m always available to answer questions, any time of the day,” she says. “I love nothing more than brides sending through their photos and seeing all of the ideas on colours, flowers and styling that were flying around the fitting room come together in one beautiful image of a bride with the biggest, happiest smile on her face.”
Bridal Palace
41 Denham Street, Townsville City
4772 1107
www.bridalpalace.com.au
@bridalpalacegowns