Our incredible stockist: GHOST ORCHID Bride
This is such a wonderful industry to be a part of, isn’t it? How lucky we are to be surrounded with so much love all day long! Of course, our brides are a huge source of joy for us at Halfpenny London, and we’re also thrilled to work with so many truly inspiring boutiques in the UK and around the world.
Today, let me introduce you to Katey Headley, the creator of Ghost Orchid Bride in Hull. The Halfpennys caught up with Katey to discuss her journey in the industry so far, her stunning boutique, and her favourite Halfpenny London pieces…
Katey, tell us a little about yourself
My early background was in fashion and I worked in designer retail in my early career. As life happened my direction shifted but because I'm so fascinated by fashion as a form of unspoken language and an expression of not only how a person feels, their character and their tribe but also an indicator of the mood of the times, I kept a keen eye on the fashion world. Aside from running the business, when I want a little escape from fashion I like to wind down in the countryside where the mind can relax and new creative ideas and inspiration can be drawn.
How did you get into the bridal business?
Getting into bridal was both totally unexpected and in hindsight completely obvious. Since being a child I would spend my time designing wedding dresses and this interest in bridal never left, despite my career going in a very different direction. Almost overnight something happened to the industry with brides and designers really starting to go all out with their creativity and injecting some real individuality and personality into their outfits. After some despondent visits with friends to more traditional bridal shops, I was too excited with what was happening in other areas of the industry to not bring this to The North. That's when I decided to open Ghost Orchid Bride. I really wanted to offer a professional and luxury shopping experience for those brides who want something just that little bit cooler, while never loosing the down-to-earth, non-intimidating approach.
Describe your boutique in one word:
Relaxed
Where is your boutique and why did you choose that area?
Ghost Orchid is located in The Fruit Market area of Hull, which is just next to the beautiful Marina. On a vibrant sunny day, sipping your champagne in one of the bars that look out over the yachts you can almost pretend you're in the South of France. We often get guests from out of town commenting on how surprised they are to find such a little gem of a place in Hull and after collecting their dresses expressing how much they're going to miss their visits. The Fruit Market is home to many independently run shops, bars, restaurants and even a couple of galleries and a music venue. Moving to this area was a no brainer for me because I just knew it would extend the experience for our brides, who can go on to celebrate finding their outfit in one of the many bars and restaurants.
What can brides to be expect when visiting your boutique?
The first thing my brides can expect is a very warm welcome. I know that it can be an overwhelming experience for some brides so initially my number one priority is for brides to feel at home. We have calming scents and chilled music playing and over a glass of fizz we can have a causal chat around your needs, expectations and what you are hoping to find. You'll be free to roam the packed full rails of gorgeous dresses and separates and once you've decided on your favourite looks the fun begins. Expert advice will be on hand to you at all times as we guide you through this process. We help women from all walks of life, of all shapes and sizes and with an endless variety of requirements. Our aim at Ghost Orchid Bride is for you to have a good time exploring your own sense of style so that on your wedding day you can really express who you are and your own individuality.
Tell us what you love about your city/town?
The thing I love most about this city is how friendly and accommodating the people are. Something I always look forward to after extended periods of time away.
Any insider tips for the area?
The Social Distortion! You will need to get a 15 minute taxi to Princes Avenue but if you're staying into the evening I would highly recommend booking into this Asian style restaurant. Think Punk v's the tastiest artisan food you can imagine. A winning combo in my book! If enjoying a bit of day time celebrating you'll be spoilt for choice with so many lovely bars and restaurants to choose from just seconds away from the shop.
Why do you love Halfpenny London?
This is going to be hard to keep concise. Can I say everything? I just love how fun the collections are. I feel Kate designs in a way that her pieces can be honoured for years and years to come but there is always a really exciting and unique element to her collections that elevate them from timeless to memorable, with styles that are just so enjoyable to wear. You can tell by the smiles on the faces of the real brides how much fun it is to be dressed in Halfpenny. I love how the pieces are interchangeable so that a bride can create a custom look that will feel so personal to her.
Which is your favourite piece from the Halfpenny London collection and why?
I do have a real soft spot for the Woburn skirt paired with the Oliver dress. It's such a sleek, stylish understated look which I love in contrast to the extra bold layers of tulle ruffles. I feel it has such a couture feel. Then for the reception, slip off the skirt, pop on the Elder Cape and you have an incredible party look. The photos and videos of this cape in motion, catching the low lighting will be off the scale.
If you could use one word to describe Halfpenny London, what would it be?
Limitless
Thank you so much to Katey for her wonderful answers and also for providing these stunning images. Brides-to-be in Hull, get in touch with Katey to book an appointment. I know you’ll have an incredible time at her beautiful boutique.
Love,
Kate & the Halfpennys xx
Find out more about Ghost Orchid Bride here and view our full stockists list here.