Eco-conscious brides should head to Darlington

You'll be hard pushed to find someone not feeling the pinch right now thanks to the UK's cost of living crisis. That's why we were pleased to hear about Darlington's Something Old, Something New Sustainable Bridal Wear, who've launched their business as a way of helping brides-to-be find their dream dress at a fraction of the price.

The family-run venture was borne from a wedding dress shopping trip of their own last year. "We were taken a back by the price of gowns, plus the knowledge of how much time and work goes into something that's worn once," says co-owner, Emma Atkinson. "We then looked at dresses for sale on social media and resale sites, and thought how brave someone would have to be to buy a dress they hadn't even tried on!"

Based in Darlington town centre, the store offers a huge variety of clean – and many unworn – bridal gowns, ranging from size eight to 30, but at half the original price.

"We offer brides the same wedding dress shopping experience they'd get in a typical boutique," continues Emma. "The appointments are relaxed and personal, and we've many designer names, such as Stella York, Morilee, Phoenix Gowns and Ronald Joyce. Our dresses start from £90, and our clients can even choose a budget plan that has 0% interest."

For more info head over to www.somethingoldsomethingnewsustainablebridalwear.com