It's been a while and I think it might be prudent to talk about what is going on in our industry right now. Change is happening and fast. I've never known so many bridal boutiques closing their doors for good. There is definitely something in the air. Obviously, some people are retiring - and [...]
I've written two articles for you in the latest fabulous Wedding Trader magazine: New Summer issue of Trader out now! - Wedding Trader Mag Firstly, teamwork. Hugely important when working in such a close knit environment. Pages 28-29. Then, getting the balance right between being too friendly and too frosty with your customers. Pages [...]
Following my recent interview with Wedding Trader mag, I'd love to share with you the story of how my journey as the nation's leading bridal industry trainer began. Pages 70 - 73. Take a peek here: May/June 2024 - Wedding Trader Mag Enjoy! And to the fabulous Wedding Trader team - thank you for your support. [...]
As part of my 21 years in business celebrations, I have discounted all my online, live chat and in house services & courses for the month of May 2024. Click on the links and take a look here at what's on offer for you in the shop: Products – Helena Cotter Simply enter '21 [...]
As we enter Spring, I thought it might be interesting to speak a little about the wisdom of continual investment in your team. We are all busy and often in a bridal retail environment, training can be overlooked. It should though be seen as a necessary and worthwhile investment. Why invest in an outside [...]
I've written two articles for you in the latest fabulous Wedding Trader magazine: March/April 2024 - Wedding Trader Mag Firstly, how well do you connect with your customers? Pages 50 & 51. Then, all about selling in the 21st century which can be read on pages 76 - 78. Enjoy! Helena [...]
Take a look at the new issue of the brilliant Wedding Trader mag here: January/February 2024 - Wedding Trader Mag I've written a very informative feature for you regarding customer refunds. Find it on pages 34 + 35. Several bridal retail clients had previously been in touch with me regarding this subject which is [...]
I do hope you had a fabulous Christmas and New Year. Here's to a very successful 2024! This year has got off to a fabulous start for Marguerite Hannah of Alan Hannah & MiaMia Bridal who has been nominated for The British Design Talent Award 2024. I've known Alan & Marguerite for decades. They [...]
What is an appointment? An appointment is a dedicated amount of time given to one customer at a time. These can range from one hour to two hours in the main. Some boutiques offer their diary online and brides etc can book their own appointment slot. Or one can telephone/email/DM to make an appointment [...]
Back in the day it would have been virtually unheard of to not open 5-6, or even 7 days a week in a bridal boutique. It appears today some bridal retail business owners are forgoing that model. I have been absolutely amazed at how many are closed unless they have pre-booked appointments. Is this [...]