Charity shop becomes one of first in UK to sell only wedding dresses after Covid

A charity shop has become one of the first in the UK to exclusively sell wedding and prom dresses as lockdown restrictions are set to ease.

The pandemic has hit the wedding industry hard for the past year, with thousands of ceremonies called off and couples forced to wait for their special day.

It is hoped that large gatherings like weddings and parties will be allowed again without any restrictions by June 21.

But amid speculation that the final stage of Boris Johnson's roadmap out of lockdown could be delayed, bride-to-bes are wondering whether to buy their perfect dress or save money.

But at one charity shop which is exclusively selling wedding and prom dresses, you can do both, reports Essex Live.

The Farleigh Hospice store in Dunmow, Essex, will be exclusively selling all things wedding and prom related - and has done so since June 7.

The shop says they 'aim to become the place to visit for preloved wedding and prom dresses.'

They will be selling a full range of wedding, bridesmaid and prom dresses, suits, mother of the bride ensembles, hats and shoes in a range of sizes.

Farleigh Hospice has shops across mid-Essex including Chelmsford, Maldon, Witham and Braintree.

All store proceeds go directly towards helping Farleigh Hospice continue to provide care and support to those affected by life-limiting illnesses or bereavement in the community.

Denise Wild, Farleigh Hospice retail area manager said: “Our Moulsham Street Bridal pop up shop in 2019 was such a huge success that we thought why not create a shop specifically selling bridal and prom wear!

"Our Dunmow store was the ideal local as it’s a beautiful shop, and provides the perfect setting to showcase our selection of gorgeous dresses and suits. We have a large amount of bridal and prom wear in stock as a result of the pandemic, so it makes sense to make it available all in one place".

The High Street, Dunmow store will be operating an appointment-only system for people to try on its selection of bridal and prom wear, opening from 10am to 4pm Wednesdays to Saturdays.

Appointments can be made by calling 01245 860101.

All of Farleigh’s stores are Covid-19 secure and have the appropriate safety measures in place.

In line with this, they are only accepting donations by appointment only.