Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding - May/June 2023 (Issue 98)

82 LISA FARLEY AT MOUSETRAP DRESS BOUTIQUE When did your passion for fashion start? I’ve always had a huge interest in fashion and interior design. I used to make and sell my jewellery in the original shop in Chichester before falling in love with the boutique and eventually taking it over. I started selling casual clothing and party dresses, which grew and evolved into the Mousetrap we love today. We are home to one of Hampshire’s biggest collections of wedding gowns, bridalwear, and prom/ evening dresses. What do you offer the wedding party? Mousetrap has been in business for more than 50 years, but I have owned and successfully run the boutique for 27 years. We pride ourselves on being a one-stop-shop for all things bridal! We can dress you and your entire bridal party, from your gorgeous flowergirls to your elegant mother. We can match your groomsmen’s ties and pocket squares with the beautiful bridesmaids’ dresses! What trends can we expect this summer? Expect to see lots of florals for Summer ’23! Plenty of gorgeous sleeve options will be for ethereal and whimsical weddings. There will always be pearls and lots of glitter! What is your favourite part of the job? Our favourite part of the job is creating life-long memories for our brides and their loved ones. Our ultimate goal is to make this a joyous and meaningful experience for all. We love getting to know you and your bridal party, so we can help create looks for everyone involved in the wedding to make them feel comfortable and amazing. What’s advice that you can share with couples? It’s hard to try and please everyone, so remember why you’re getting married if you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed. Celebrate your love, and don’t compromise on things that make your day even more special. Do what makes you happy! Check out: www.mousetrapdressboutique.co.uk DAWN CLARKE AT DAWN CLARKE DESIGNS When did your passion for fashion start? I went into a creative frenzy after breaking the arm off my doll at the age of seven and decided she needed some new clothes – I’ve never stopped sewing! What do you offer the wedding party? The company started in 2019 with bespoke children’s clothing for special occasions. Since then, the business has continued to grow, offering bespoke gowns and a small collection of flowergirl dresses. Each piece is designed by me and manufactured in Britain by a lovely small company in Somerset, keeping our carbon footprint low. We also continue to offer special occasion clothing for boys too! What trends can we expect this summer? It’s all about keeping it simple this summer! Choose a plain colour, such as white or ivory, and add a playful shade or texture. Adding a pop of colour could be achieved using a contrasting sash, big bow, or crown headpiece. Choose a white/ivory dress and add a textured polka dot organza skirt or silk fabric with embroidered flowers. What’s your favourite part of the job? I love designing and helping brides with ideas before sewing a little stitch of magic into the garment, sometimes sewing secret messages inside for a special surprise on the day! What’s one piece of advice that you can share with couples? If you’re buying a flowergirl dress, choose something that isn’t too fussy so that it can be worn again to parties, family lunches and gatherings. Check out: https://dawnclarkedesigns.co.uk www.nickyhillphotography.com www.alisaroberts.co.uk www.kateizakphotography.com www.kateizakphotography.com Discover local companies

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