Stone’s only bridal boutique has blossomed into a new chapter, as Astrid & Wild completes a stylish expansion that gives its curated collection of gowns a room of their own.
For owner Lucy Finney, the expansion marks another step in her journey from wedding cake maker to bridal stylist, bringing her fashion-forward approach to brides from across Staffordshire and beyond.
A modern bridal experience with room to breathe
The boutique, located on Oulton Road in Stone, now flows seamlessly into the newly extended space next door. Where once dresses shared space with fittings, they now take pride of place in a dedicated showroom, giving brides the space to browse the beautiful collection of dresses.
“We’ve always loved the location and the community around us,” said Lucy. “But it became clear that we needed more space to offer the experience we wanted. This new layout just gives everything, and everyone, room to breathe.”
The expanded area means fittings now take place in a calm, private space away from the main showroom, with appointments allowing plenty of time for dress discovery.
Curated collections from across the globe
Astrid & Wild specialises in dresses that are fashion-forward but timeless, with a clean, elegant style. Brides visiting the shop will find around 60–70 gowns in store, with designs from across the globe, including Australian and American labels like:
- Evie Young
- Serene by Madi Lane
- Martina Liana
- Allure Bridals
- Watters
Dresses are mostly made to order, with sizes ranging from 12 to 20 and styling options available to suit a variety of body shapes and preferences. From off-the-peg choices to customised linings, necklines or added sleeves, the boutique encourages brides to come in open-minded and enjoy finding ‘the one’.
Lucy adds: “Every bride’s style is different, and we’re here to help them find something that feels like them, whether that’s a sleek minimalist look or a dress with details that can evolve throughout the day. It’s about helping someone feel amazing on a really special day, and I never take that for granted.”
Appointments and planning advice
Brides are encouraged to begin dress shopping 12 to 18 months before the big day, ideally once their venue is booked. Astrid & Wild operates by appointment only to give each bride dedicated time and attention, with slots typically lasting between 90 to 120 minutes. The boutique is closed on Mondays and Thursdays, with late-night openings on Tuesdays and Wednesdays to accommodate busy schedules.
As well as bridal gowns, the shop stocks a selection of accessories, including gloves, veils and detachable sleeves, as well as offering some sample sale gowns.
Lucy also takes the boutique on the road, regularly showcasing dresses at local venues such as Aston Marina and Sandon Hall. The shop hosts exclusive events like trunk shows, where entire collections are brought in temporarily for brides to explore.
Expert tips for a smoother experience
Drawing on her years of experience, Lucy has plenty of wisdom for brides planning their visit. She recommends:
- Bringing only those whose opinions truly matter, ideally groups of 6 or fewer
- Avoid having a fake tan before fittings!
- If you’ve got some specific shoes you’d like to try, then bring them along!
Astrid & Wild continues to be a breath of fresh air for modern brides looking for something elegant, distinctive and personal. With its new space now open, the boutique is set to offer even more magic to those walking through its doors.
Website – Astrid & Wild
1 comment
Janet
The window display looks so much better with the flowers in it.
I’m still puzzled why brides these days want white dresses. Even in the 1970’s when I got married I wanted something different and not white so we made the dress and bridesmaids dresses ourselves. It’s great to have a shop like yours in Stone but I wish women could be bolder and ask you to make dresses for them with more individuality.