Somerset Bridal, Minehead, shortlisted for Bridal Buyers Awards

Somerset Bridal, The Avenue, has been finalised for the New Bridalwear Retailer of the Year for the Bridal Buyer Awards 2018.

Owners Debbie Shelly and Roberta Talbot say they are thrilled to be shortlisted as they aim to encourage body positivity in women of all shapes and sizes.

Although they cater for everyone, the pair pride themselves in having sizes available for plus-size women to try on for their big day.

Mrs Shelly said: "It's lovely to help woman find their wedding dress, especially if they are a plus size.

"So many women come to us having had an awful experience somewhere else, some can be very anxious when they come to us but we get to spoil them.

"It's about giving everyone the same options, not just those that can fit into a size 10."

SHORTLISTED: The outside of the bridal shop in Minehead

The mother and daughter team say they get visitors from all over the South West who are looking for their perfect dress

Opening the shop two years ago was a 'massive learning curve' as neither of them were working in the industry.

Mrs Shelly works indexing law books - so the new venture was a massive change.

She added: "It's my dream job.

"It's such a niche that needs to be filled.

"Women need to be able to see how beautiful they can look on their day. We cater for everyone - no matter their shape or size. No matter what, I can put them in something beautiful."

The bridal team will find out if they are successful at a ceremony in September.

Mrs Shelly added: "This is a really big thing for us, we are so pleased that someone in the industry has recognised there is a place for body positivity."