Appointment-only bridal studio

Brides, plus mothers, bridesmaids and guests buying accessories or occasion wear.

Margin on dresses ordered from designers, plus veils, shoes, jewellery and alteration fees. Brides usually pay a deposit at order and the balance before delivery.

• Warm, patient customer service
• An eye for style and fit
• Sales and organisation
• Managing supplier orders and deadlines

• Public liability and stock insurance, and check cover for customers' dresses held on your premises
• Designer minimum orders and sample costs can tie up cash, so check terms before committing
• Customer deposits and refund terms, so put clear written terms in place and check your consumer law obligations
• Check business rates, lease terms and planning use for your premises with your local council
• Wedding dates are fixed, so late deliveries from suppliers are a real risk

Startup costs are estimated at typically around £10,000 to £40,000, depending on your premises and the designer sample dresses you stock. Check designer minimum orders and sample costs before committing, as they can tie up cash.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around £2,000 to £10,000, depending on how many brides book, the dresses you sell and any accessories or occasion wear. Treat this as an estimate and plan your cash flow around supplier orders.

Check public liability and stock insurance, including cover for customers' dresses held on your premises. Put clear written terms in place for deposits and refunds, and check your consumer law obligations. Also check business rates, lease terms and planning use with your local council.