One of the oldest businesses in Blackburn has launched a new bridal boutique at their store in the town centre.

‘Inspired’ by Helen Dimmick is a new addition to the first floor of Ainsworth Jewellers in Darwen Street.

It features a collection of new and pre-owned gowns curated by Helen.

Helen said: “The opening of a bridal boutique in store is the natural next step for me and I am delighted to see this come to fruition after all the research, designing and planning.

"Our offer will be two-fold and is all about choice – brides can browse the latest collections from well-known designers we are proud to stock or they can bring pre-loved gowns or even family heirlooms for us to re-purpose to suit their wedding dress dreams.

“After my own wedding experience, I wanted to revolutionise the wedding market with a theme running through that really considers how a bride feels.

"We want them to be a client for life as opposed to a one-off experience, as the past, present and future is at the very heart of the Inspired story, just like it is in jewellery.

“Our values of repurposing and remodelling jewellery is something we are fiercely proud of and were keen to transfer into the bridal boutique; and so this move towards a more sustainable and even affordable way of also working with brides is something I am really passionate about.

"We will subsequently invite our brides to return so we can create a stunning black tie event creation, baby christening outfits or even prom dresses from the once worn, beloved wedding dress.”

Ainsworth Jewellers first opened in the town in 1870 and celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2020.

As part of a long-standing relationship with Blackburn College the aim is to 'support future talent' with education classes and work experience projects.

Katie Grime has taken on the role as a new shop assistant and will join Helen to welcome brides and their families to the store.

Helen added: “The first phase for the store sees a new stylish fitting room complete with dressing area and plush seating for the bridal party to relax in historic surroundings whilst enjoying complimentary refreshments."

Ainsworth Jewellers and Inspired Bridal Boutique will support Gawthorpe Hall Textiles Collection, who house the third largest costume collection in the UK.

A donation of the profits made on the sale of every gown sold will be gifted to the charity and brides will also be given Friends Membership to the Hall.