Curtains for bridal shop Online competitors finish off boutique
A POPULAR Far Northern bridal boutique is closing its doors due to the challenges of keeping up with an online market.
Cassandra Larkin opened the doors to her business, The Dress and Beyond, 5½ years ago in Atherton’s Main St.
She attracted customers from all over North Queensland who were looking for that perfect dress or formal outfit.
But with online shopping becoming increasingly popular, Mrs Larkin said it was becoming more difficult to run a small bricks and mortar boutique.
“Being in business is extremely difficult in this age of instant internet sales,” she said.
“I am moving on to a new stage of my life with my young family and look forward to all that entails.”
Mrs Larkin will close the door to her business on June 1. Until then, all gowns and stock will be on sale until sold out.
Mrs Larkin thanked all her supporters over the years.
“I would like to thank every single person who has walked through my doors in the years that I have been here,” she said.
“All of the beautiful brides who have entrusted me to help them find the perfect gown, all of the debutantes and formals, the men’s suit hire, bridesmaids and flower girls – I have truly enjoyed being a small part of your special day.
“… I have met so many people over the years.
“Thank you for supporting a small business. It has meant the world to me.”
Messages of support had flooded in for Mrs Larkin since her announcement.
“You were by far one of the reassuring parts of my wedding day knowing that everything would … be perfect like I dreamt,” Danielle Fuller said.
“Absolutely one of my favourite parts of getting married, was having you help me choose my wedding dress,” Amy Matthews said.
“You helped me get every single one of my dresses for the important events in my life from high school graduation to university,” Isobel Bryce said.
“I feel so very grateful to have been able to experience this.”