Having taken over the reins at this Teeside boutique a few years ago, this passionate owner is one of the North East’s only male consultants who provides brides with an impeccable service from start to finish.

Think an all encompassing dress hunt experience, from the carefully picked scent of the salon to the rails of luxury wedding gowns that await your approval. Here, we sat down with Sean to discover the delights of his pretty pink paradise, and figure out what’s in store for Hugo and Elliot! Pssst - there's an exclusive! Read on to find out...

Tell us a little about your journey into bridal…

It was somewhat unexpected! A number of years ago I was asked if I would invest in a bridal store as a silent investor. I started to spend time working in and on the business and became very enthusiastic about the bridal industry but above all, absolutely loved working directly with brides. Eventually the store owner decided to leave and I saw that as my opportunity to create a store of my own.

Where does the name Hugo and Elliot come from? 

 IT IS NAMED AFTER MY TWO FOUR LEGGED BOYS, MY CHIHUAHUA BROTHERS HUGO AND ELLIOT! I COULDN’T THINK OF A BETTER NAME OR TWO BETTER MASCOTS.

SEAN

The store is located in the heart of the Historical village of Norton with bustling pubs, cafes and restaurants – there is no better way to spend an afternoon with your bridal party! 

You have some superstar labels at the boutique. Talk us through them…

EDDY K

My most stocked label is Eddy K – an Italian powerhouse and maker of some of the most exquisite bridal gowns. They are a global brand stocking across the major continents. 

ELLIS BRIDAL

I also wanted to stock some home labels so I became a premium stockist of UK-based Ellis Bridal. Ellis have been designing wedding gowns for over 100 years and are the pioneers of luxury British Bridal. 

EVA LENDEL & RIA TENER

I also stock two young Ukrainian labels. Both are fashion forward and focussed on Brides who are looking for an edge. Eva Lendel have some of the most striking designs in the Industry. I am also the first UK stockist of Ria Tener. Their gowns are super sexy and made for the more daring bride. 

MOONLIGHT BRIDAL

Last but not least my designers from the Southern Hemisphere! Moonlight Bridal has been one of the most prestigious names in the Bridal industry since 1986. Their gowns are known for their incredible fit and sumptuous fabrics sewn with Swarovski crystal details.

Describe the Hugo and Elliot bride in three words…

Expectant. Determined. Classy!

What’s new for AW21?

We are receiving Ellis’ brand new 2022 collection and hosting their Trunk show in early November. I like to keep thinks fresh and exciting so I always have a plan up my sleeve. I’m in talks with a few other designers that I’m keeping under wraps right now, but as soon as I have details, Belle Bridal will too!

In 2021 my goal at Hugo and Elliot is to…

Establish myself on the north east’s bridal map and become one of the go-to stores for your bridal journey. Above all I want to make sure that each and every bride who comes through my door gets the experience that they deserve. I really do enjoy the appointments as much as (I believe) they do. I’m completely passionate about my job and I want every bride to feel unique and special. 

What’s your favourite style of gown and why?

It really makes me smile when a bride comes into the salon and tells me she doesn’t want a ballgown, but then puts one on and falls in love with herself in the mirror! Theres something very special about a ballgown or an A-line style. 

I SEE GIRLS REMINISCE ABOUT BEING PRINCESSES WHEN THEY WERE YOUNG AND I SEE THEIR MOTHER TEAR UP WHEN THEY PICTURE THEIR LITTLE GIRL GETTING MARRIED.

THIS HAPPENS MORE IN THIS STYLE THAN ANY OTHERS. THERE'S DEFINITELY A MAGIC TO A BALLGOWN. 

SEAN

As for a favourite gown…well that would be telling! I love all my “Girls” as I call them and each does something different to the wearer. Theres definitely one or two I always gravitate towards though and love to see brides in."

To book into one of Hugo & Elliot’s upcoming Trunk Shows, email hello@hugoandelliot.co.uk, or to book an exclusive appointment, head to their website here!