Wedding one-stop: House of Fraser, Cabot Circus, Bristol

Whether you’re right at the start of your wedding-planning journey, or you’ve got two weeks to go and a list as long as your train – all it takes is one day to get your planning in order.

Department stores such as Debenhams, John Lewis and House of Fraser are perfect for a one-stop shopping sweep. From a spa treatment, to hair trial, gift lists, manicure, make-up advice, thank-you gifts, shoes, jewellery and underwear… you can tick all these off your list and more. You can even book your honeymoon in some stores!

Bristol’s Cabot Circus has quickly established itself as a shopping haven so it’s no surprise that House of Fraser, the first store you come across on exiting the car park, has all these facilities and more.

So grabs your mum and bridesmaids, set a budget and book a day of shopping to slice through that to-do list…

10am: The store opens so start the day with a treatment at the Robin James Aveda spa. Booking is essential. Stressed-out brides may like a soothing aromatherapy massage, £49.95. Or, if it’s a little closer to the big day, opt for an aqua polish, £45, that will leave your skin sparkling. This is particularly effective on upper arms, encouraging cell renewal to give you that bridal ‘glow’. Call 0117 9290 682 to make your appointment.

11.30am: Book a hair cut or wedding hair trial with blowdry, also at the Robin James Aveda spa. Prices start from £18.50 and you can pick up some essential hair tips for your big day. Summer brides may be feeling a bit frazzled and the essential oil-infused Aveda hair products are perfect for giving you back your sparkle. On exit, pick up Aveda Suncare Protective Hair Veil (£17, pictured) to seal shine into your locks on your big day, and prevent your hair from frizzing on your honeymoon.

12.30am: Meet your maids at Nails Inc for essential nail pampering. The most popular bridal nail treatment is the 3-Week Manicure (from £50), which will give you gorgeous nails throughout the build-up, big day and honeymoon. Perfect for showing off your new ring! Or, if you’re in a hurry, the Express Manicure, £28, will give your hands a new lease of life. Treat yourself to one of the new Crystal polishes (pictured) – the bling-tastic lids just scream ‘bride’.

1pm: Take your pick from the make-up counters for a free bridal make-up lesson. Estee Lauder and Bobbi Brown are fantastic, however Chanel is the most thorough – your hour-and-a-half appointment covers skincare, make-up application AND fragrance. Make sure your maids pay attention so you can recreate the look on the big day – you’ll learn what products to use and the best way to apply them. Be sure to treat yourself to a few products, after all, they will last beyond the big day. A good base is essential to ensure you look your best in wedding photos. We like Chanel’s Base Lumiere (£24.50, pictured). Chanel’s Oil Control Tisses (£20.50, pictured) are perfect for on-the-go mattifying, taking away shine without caking you in powder. But if you only buy one thing, make it a good make-up brush – mastering application with brushes is the key to long-lasting bridal looks and, by using a foundation brush, you can ensure you are using only the essential amount of product. It will make your base last longer and ensure even coverage.

2.30pm: Ok, you’ve had a busy morning, so treat yourself to lunch at the on-site restaurant, Zest! Choose from a variety of mains or treat yourself to a Champagne afternoon tea.

3pm: Now it’s onto the shopping proper and, with so many labels to choose from, I highly recommend an appointment with personal shopper Lucy Taylor. Whether you’re looking for bridesmaids’ dresses, a going-away outfit or jewellery and accessories to complement your gown, Lucy will bring a variety of ideas to a private changing area where you can explore the new ranges in peace. It’s also a great way to push you out of your comfort zone and encourage you to ditch your standard Warehouse and Oasis for special-occasion wear from Karen Millen, Coast, Ted Baker and more. Pictured, dress, £120, Karen Millen; shoes, £180, Karen Millen.

4.30pm: Head upstairs to register for your wedding gift list. Don’t worry if your man can’t make it – you can come back any time to add products to your list and discuss colours, patterns and ranges. The House of Fraser Wedding List gives guests plenty of options. Alongside the traditional Le Creuset, Denby and Wedgwood products, you can ask for money to be added to a giftcard that can be used instore or to treat you both to an overnight at the luxurious Hotel du Vin or Malmaison hotels. Any guests that spend more than £50 will receive a £15 money-off voucher of their own as a special thank-you. Lists are made available for guests to purchase from six weeks prior to the wedding.

5pm: You’re still not done! Don’t leave without checking out the Virgin Holidays concession and discussing your holiday requirements with one of the friendly team. Seek out Sarah Milford for top destination advice and be sure to pick up the new ‘Hip Hotels’ brochure – this features romantic, individual retreats across the globe, perfect for a once-in-a-lifetime getaway.

FIND OUT MORE

House of Fraser Bristol

House of Fraser: The Wedding List

Appointments are essential in peak times. Call 0117 9290 682 to make an appointment with the spa; call 0117 912 5553 to make an appointment with the personal shopper. For make-up demos and lessons, make an appointment in store.