THEY are responsible for helping loving brides and grooms celebrate the happiest day of their lives.

Now bosses at a Hampshire bridal shop have a reason to celebrate themselves after securing the second part of a £1,000 business cash boost.

Romsey Bridal Boutique has been awarded the final instalment of a business grant given to them by Test Valley Borough Council.

The authority initially awarded owner Andrea Wyatt and her business partner Tara Reddish the cash after they took over the empty shop unit in the Hundred in the town centre.

Now they have received the second £500 instalment from the council’s Independent Retailer Grant – after they were previously given £500 in February.

The boutique is set in a beautiful Grade II listed building set over two floors and is the sister store of the long-established Wedded Bliss Bridal Studio in Dibden Purlieu.

The new store offers a wide range of wedding dresses made from a variety of exquisite materials including luxurious lace and silk.

The shop also stocks a range of men’s wedding attire and has private changing suites for brides and their guests to relax in and enjoy the experience of choosing their perfect gown.

Andrea thanked the council for its generous donation and said: “The shop has been very busy for the past few months which has been great.

"We’re really pleased with our location and we are settling into the town centre very well.”

Test Valley Borough Council representative for Romsey’s Abbey ward, Cllr Clive Collier said: “I am delighted that Romsey Bridal Boutique continues to thrive.

"Andrea and Tara clearly have the drive and experience to ensure that their new business is a success and I wish them the very best for the future.”

To be eligible for the grant, new or existing independent businesses must occupy a town centre ground floor unit which has been vacant for at least one month.

Qualifying businesses include shops, restaurants and cafes.

See testvalley.gov.uk for more information or how to apply.