Prom Takeovers, Golden Surprises & a Diary That’s Filling Fast!

Hello everyone,

Well, October… you’ve certainly kept me on my toes!

There’s been plenty happening at Not Just Brides here in Westbury, and if you’ve been following our page, you’ll know we’ve been busy giving local schools their moment in the spotlight. Between prom planning, bridal appointments and a little golden surprise, there’s lots to catch you up on.

First things first, though: thank you. The response to our recent campaigns has been overwhelming in the loveliest possible way. Every booking, message, share and recommendation makes a difference to a small business like ours, and I’m so grateful.

The Prom School Takeover is in full swing!

What a response we’ve had! Our Prom School Takeover is currently running, the diary is filling up, and we’re absolutely loving seeing so many of you getting excited about Prom 2027.

We’ve been making our way through schools across Wiltshire and beyond, with each school receiving its own announcement and booking code.

And yes, the suits deserve just as much attention! Whether you’re dreaming of a dress with a bit of sparkle or a sharp suit for your big entrance, we want you to feel comfortable, confident and ready to enjoy your evening.

One of my favourite things about prom shopping is that everyone comes in with a different idea. Some know exactly what they want. Others arrive saying, “I haven’t got a clue!” Both are perfectly good starting points. Sometimes the outfit you fall for is the one you hadn’t even considered.

To everyone who has tagged a friend, passed the offer on to another parent or booked an appointment: thank you. You’ve helped this takeover reach far more people, and the response has honestly been wonderful.

And we’re not stopping yet! There are more school announcements to come, so if yours hasn’t appeared, keep watching the page. You can also pop your school’s name in the comments and tell us who should get a turn next.

A little reminder for anyone thinking, “But prom is months away…” — book now, attend later! You can arrange your appointment for a later date; just remember to quote your school’s code when booking. With the diary filling up, it’s a good time to get your visit organised and give yourself one less thing to think about.

Our first Golden Appointment has been found!

A huge congratulations to Charlotte, our first Golden Appointment winner for October!

I’ve loved having a little secret tucked away in the diary, and it’s been so exciting to finally share who found it. Wedding planning comes with plenty of decisions, so being able to add an extra lovely surprise to someone’s bridal experience has been a real treat.

Charlotte, congratulations again — we’re delighted for you!

And for everyone else… keep following the page. The Golden Appointment will be back in November, and we’ll be sharing more nearer the time. I’m keeping a few things to myself for now. I’m allowed a little mystery, aren’t I?

Bridal plans are still very much on the go

Alongside all the prom excitement, we’re here helping brides find their dress and bringing wedding outfits together.

Whether you’ve recently got engaged, have a wedding date booked or are finally ready to start trying dresses on, you don’t need to arrive with every detail worked out. Bring your ideas, your questions and an open mind.

There can be a lot of pressure around finding “the one”, but your appointment should be something you enjoy. We’re here to help you explore what suits you and what feels right for your day.

And, as our name suggests, there’s more to us than bridal gowns. From bridesmaids and occasion wear to suits for hire or purchase, we can help with the other important outfits on your list too.

Now… dare I mention Christmas?

I know. We’re only in October! But those Christmas party invitations have a habit of creeping up on us, and suddenly the conversation changes from “There’s loads of time” to “What am I going to wear?”

Behind the scenes, we’re getting ready for the festive party season, with Christmas celebrations and New Year’s Eve firmly on our minds.

Think dresses worth making plans for, suits that make you feel properly dressed up, and a good excuse to enjoy choosing something special. Whether it’s a work party, a festive dinner or that one big night out with friends, we’ll have plenty to share as the season gets closer.

There are more offers and a few surprises in the pipeline too, so keep an eye on the page. I won’t give everything away in one blog — where’s the fun in that?

A big thank you from me

I’ve been running Not Just Brides since 2014, and seeing people support the shop still means so much to me.

To our returning customers, our new faces, the families planning prom visits and everyone recommending us to someone they know: thank you for keeping us busy and being part of it all.

October already has plenty going on, and there’s more to come. More schools, more appointments, another Golden Appointment to look forward to, and a little festive sparkle waiting in the wings.

If you’ve been meaning to book, send us a message and let’s get a date in the diary.

Book today. Attend later.

See you soon,

Claire x