6 wedding industry challenges and how Morplan can help – bridal shop supplies

Peak wedding season is upon us and we know there are many challenges you can face as a bridal shop or bridal boutique, but what are they and how can you solve them?

Gowns and dresses contain delicate materials and intricate beading or lacework that can be easily damaged. Not to mention, as businesses who are operating during one of the wettest summers on record, the challenge of protecting them from damp and the inevitable staining that occurs if they do get wet.

Depending on your priorities and storage needs, you might just need protection from the elements and dust or dirt, in which case water-proof and water resistance are the buzzwords to look out for. For longer term storage, or, for if you are operating in a humid or warmer environment, allowing the air to circulate and therefore ensuring damp air does not have the chance to turn your garments mouldy should be the focus. In which case, garments covers with

If your budget is restricted, there is also the option of buying our standard garments bags on a roll, for those who prefer to buy wedding dress bags wholesale. Although, it’s worth noting that this type of plastic bag can cause discolouration if used for long term storage.

Another, perhaps less waterproof but not less protective, option for easy transportation of dresses is wedding dress and gown boxes, like the example in the

Driving footfall to your bridal shop will be integral to a successful bridal season, word of mouth and good reviews are top priority – there is nothing more effective than a happy bride promoting your boutique! However, another subtle form of advertising is having your bride leave with their wedding dress in a garment cover or gown box printed with your logo! Let your customers be your biggest advocate on the high street.

We also provide logo printing services on hangers, paper carrier bags, gift boxes and much more.

According to this article, the average wedding dress weighs 3kg, on a clothes rail full of gowns, this weight will add up fast. Not only does the challenge centre around finding clothes rails that will not bow or break under this weight, they must also be easy to manoeuvre and aesthetically pleasing.

With wedding dresses costing an average of £1,300, the hanger you use to display it on it also very important. Choosing the right hangers for your dresses will depend on the theme you are creating, white wooden hangers are simple and elegant, or selecting a black wooden hanger can add a striking contrast, why not consider a luxury ash wooden hanger for a touch of class and distinctiveness to your wedding dress displays.

And for the pièce de resistance, our white, soft touch hangers are coated in a gossamer-light, rubber feel paint and are completely non-slip - even the silkiest of garments will stay put! All of our wooden hangers are high quality, sturdy and made to last.

Weddings are particularly associated with luxury and distinctiveness of the happy couple’s big day. With the average cost of a wedding in the UK totalling £20k, it’s no wonder people relate shopping for their wedding with extravagance.

The challenge is creating this feeling within your Bridal Shop. According to this article, the things to think about are:

• Theme - romantic valentines, natural, modern or classic?
• Atmosphere – needs to be comfortable, relaxed, with warm lighting.
• Layout - how can you make all your products accessible and the foot-traffic free flowing? Do you want a seating area? Or an area with large mirrors and spotlights so prospective brides can show her dress to friends and family?
• Focal points – such as mannequin displays or flower and plant displays, to draw your customers in, or point them in a particular direction.

We have a range of lighting options, from spotlights, to unique pendant lights, all the way to cluster ceiling lights which you can use to create a range of effects. Let your gowns shine with the right lighting!

Not sure where to begin? Use our Storeplanner tool or speak to a team member in one of our regional stores. They can help measure and advise on how to create the look and feel you have in mind to maximise your floorspace.

Your shop window is the gateway to enticing new brides into your store, displaying mannequins with your beautiful dresses is essential in showcasing your range. Choosing the right type of mannequin for your display will depend on the theme and atmosphere you want to create, we have our suggestions below.

It is also worth thinking about size inclusivity with our plus size mannequins, or, if your audience or location is eco-conscious, we have our eco-mannequins.

Another way to create effective focal points in your store is through display plinths, display pedestals, display gondolas and display props to add height to your wedding dress or accessory displays

We also have a range of fake florals and flowers, for creating that soft, feminine, romantic atmosphere.

Another huge challenge in the wedding industry is the inherent seasonal nature of it, as well as it being highly influenced by changes in fashion trends and economic factors.

This was why you need to make stock rotation easy with tools like stock rotation clips and discs, easily manoeuvrable clothes rails and shop fittings designed to moved and updated as needed.

Take a look at our Bridal Shop inspiration page for more, or get in touch to discuss your plans for your shop further.