BRIDES-to-be can enjoy some late night inspiration – and a chance to win a dream wedding dress – in Sunderland this week.
As part of a weekly range of activities to coincide with shops across the city staying open until 8pm on Thursday evenings, Sunderland BID has turned romantic ahead of Valentine’s Day.
And this Thursday (Feb 5) the evening will be devoted to betrothed couples, with a whole range of events planned.
Along with a free wedding magazine giveaway, shoppers can see a range of men’s suits from Greenwoods and be in with a chance to win a £1000 wedding dress from First Glance at Fredrick Street.
The dress will be raffled on the night, with all the proceeds going to MacMillan Cancer Support.
Visitors can also visit a photo booth – available to hire for weddings – and can take fun pictures using a range of props.
“It’s the time of year when people start to plan weddings,” said Ken Dunbar, Chief Executive of Sunderland BID.
“And we thought late night Thursdays offered a great opportunity for us to get into the spirit and also give one bride a night she will really remember.
“It also means that shoppers can come along and join in the fun and then have the rest of the evening free to enjoy all the great places to eat and drink in and around the city centre.”
A number of shops in The Bridges will be open until 8pm, with free parking in the centre’s car parks from 5.30pm until 9pm, with council-run car parks also free after 3pm on Thursdays.
Following on from the success of the events held on Thursdays throughout January, a new programme of events has been put together for the next four weeks.
That includes a performance by Bishopwearmouth Choral Society on Feb 12, the return of the Bring the Happy digital art initiative on February 19 and activities around the production of The Full Monty at the Sunderland Empire on February 26.
“The late night shopping evenings are proving a huge success already,” said Andy Bradley, Centre Director at the Bridges.
“We’re getting an excellent response from shoppers and we’re sure the new programme of events for February will be equally well received.”
For further information on the Bridges visit www.thebridges-shopping.com