Charity shop in the Midlands opens new bridal and debs department

A charity shop in the Midlands has cut the ribbon on a new bridal and debs department, offering affordable and sustainable gowns to shoppers.

Vincent's shop in Portlaoise has officially launched their new dedicated offering, and they are even throwing in a glass of alcohol free prosecco for their exclusive private shoppers.

Manager Mary Ryan cut the ribbon on Thursday, June 19 at noon, with several customers already in the shop on the Dublin Road, waiting to check out the wedding dress selection upstairs. Many were worn once, while some are donated brand new.

The whole first floor of the shop, a former meeting room, is now dedicated to the department, which also includes mother-of-the-bride dresses as well as shoes and accessories. There is a huge dressing room with multiple mirrors, spot lighting and seats to ensure that trying on dresses is a comfortable and special experience. 

Shoppers are advised to make an appointment ahead of time, ensuring an exclusive shopping experience.

Mary spoke to the Leinster Express / Laois Live at the launch.

"It's all the good wedding and debs dresses that we can't display in the shop downstairs, people might roll buggies over them. We wanted to make it special. Customers will get a glass of Nosecco, and a thank you card in a high quality bag.

Mia Ryan modelling one of the wedding dresses.

It is aimed at people who don't have deep pockets to get married, and also those who want to do the right thing and shop sustainably while supporting people in need in the Portlaoise area.

"Someone told us you actually have to pay €25 an hour to try on wedding dresses in boutiques. Our prices will range from about €250 for five wedding dresses that we were given new from a shop, to around €80 or €100. If we feel people can't afford that we will drop our price.

"It's trendy now too to shop second hand, you're saving the planet, but also people don't have as much money now.

The spacious dressing room.

"I want to give a big thank you to all the people who donated their dresses," she said, adding that more donations are of course welcome.

One of the customers waiting to see the gowns was bride Linda from Portlaoise.

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"I like the idea of reusing something, as well as keeping things under budget. All the dresses look absolutely perfect. I love thrift shops, I'm such an addict, you come out with lovely bits, and I especially like when you're helping a charity.

A sample of the occasional wear and accessories at the bridal and debs shop in SVP Vincent's Portlaoise.

"The money we are spending will go back to those in need. Where would it all go if it all goes to landfill. We need to reduce, reuse and recycle. I worry for the future for my own kids," the customer said.

SVP Vincent's Portlaoise located at 1, Dublin Road, R32KN28, is open Monday to Saturday, call 057 8660486. The shop also has a furniture department, with parking available to the rear.