Small bridal boutique

Brides and their families, often paying a deposit when ordering a dress and the balance before delivery.

Mark-up on dresses and accessories, plus extras such as alterations, preservation and hire of items. Higher-value dress sales make up most of the income.

• Customer service and sensitive, patient selling
• An eye for style and fit
• Managing stock, appointments and supplier orders
• Basic bookkeeping

• Public liability and stock insurance, plus employer's liability if you take on staff
• Business rates and lease terms for commercial premises, so check with your local council and get advice before signing
• Deposits on custom orders: use clear written terms and check consumer rights rules, as a supplier failing can leave you out of pocket
• Cash flow risk from buying stock before selling it, and a very seasonal market
• Check fire safety and accessibility requirements for customer-facing premises

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on your premises, fit-out and how much stock you hold. Buying stock before selling it creates cash flow risk, so check your budget carefully before committing.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £3,000 to £15,000, depending on location, range and appointment numbers. The market is very seasonal, so plan your cash flow for quieter months rather than relying on peak periods.

Check public liability and stock insurance, business rates and lease terms with your local council, and fire safety and accessibility requirements. For deposits on custom orders, use clear written terms and check consumer rights rules.