With its Elizabethan architecture and beautiful surroundings, Grafton Manor is an ideal venue for a wedding - and in addition to making sure your special day runs smoothly, the family-run venue also offers brides the option of buying a gorgeous dress and accessories from Grafton Manor Bridal Designs.

Located in the manor's former coach houses, the beautifully-decorated boutique is run by Nicola Harper, daughter of the present Lord of Grafton. This relatively new wing of the business opened just over a year ago and provides a relaxed and luxurious atmosphere in which to choose the perfect dress, with the bride-to-be made to feel extra special every step of the way.

The beautiful designer dresses available range from classic, elegant gowns to ultra-detailed creations featuring lace, crystals or embroidery, with a choice of subtle, neutral shades like ivory and cream taking over from pure white. Glamorous designs by Ian Stuart involve unusual details and fabrics such as taffeta cangiante for a ruffled, vintage look, while handmade dresses from Suzanne Neville feature a hand-cut bodice and simple lines for a flattering, graceful figure.

Anna Christina dresses are also handmade in pure silk, while Fabio Gritti uses Italian silk and lace teamed with Swarovski crystals for his frothy fairytale creations in subtle gold shades. Nicola is a particular fan of Hong Kong-based designer, Lusan Mandongus, whose ornate gowns feature lace and bow details with ribbon trim.

While many brides will spot their ideal dress here, the boutique also offers the opportunity to adapt elements of the basic designs to suit individual requirements.

"We liase directly with the designers, so brides could pick a certain dress but choose to have a different neckline, extra details such as pearls, or buttons at the back," explains Nicola.

Alterations are also undertaken on-site, with brides making a series of appointments in order to see the on-going design process. Only one client will be in the boutique at any one time, meaning undivided attention and plenty of time to get things absolutely right.

"We encourage clients to take their time, pull out dresses that catch their eye and get an idea of the shape that best suits them," Nicola says. "Some people come in with a clear idea of what they want, only to change their mind after browsing, while others are very open to suggestions. It's not a quick process - brides are able to relax and enjoy choosing."

The bride can also practise moving around in her dress, with part of the carpet designed to represent an aisle, and check on her appearance in large mirrors as she experiments with accessories such as veils, tiaras and jewellery and even a pretend bouquet. High-heeled shoes in all sizes are available to wear while trying on the gowns, and Grafton Manor Bridal Designs also sells Rainbow shoes, which can be dyed to match the dress.

Customers come from as far afield as London, many taking advantage of Grafton Manor's whole wedding package. Nicola offers evening appointments, convenient for working women, and Sunday mornings, as the hotel is also open then.