Home-Based bridal studio by appointment

Brides who want a relaxed, one-to-one experience, often at lower prices than big boutiques.

Margin on gowns and accessories ordered through designers, plus alteration referrals or fees, and sales of sample gowns when they are replaced.

• Warm, personal customer service
• Styling and fitting basics
• Online marketing and social media
• Organising appointments

• Municipal zoning and home-based business rules, including customer visits and signage
• Home insurance may not cover business use or customers, so check with your insurer and ask about commercial general liability
• Landlord or condo rules if you rent or live in a condo
• Limited space means limited stock, which may cap sales
• Collect and remit GST/HST or PST where required, and check your provincial rules
• Seasonal demand, with slower winter months in many areas

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on the space you set up, the size of your sample gown collection and your accessories. Limited space means limited stock.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on how many brides you see and the gowns they order. Estimates suggest at least about 10 hours a week, and demand may be slower in winter.

Check municipal zoning and home-based business rules, including customer visits and signage. Also check whether your home insurance covers business use or customers, ask about commercial general liability, and check landlord or condo rules if they apply.