Owner of Sukies fancy dress hire in Stamford thanks customers as shop closes after 23 years
The owner of Sukies has thanked customers in Stamford and the surrounding villages after announcing that the fancy dress shop is closing down this year.
Sukies Party Emporium has been open in Stamford since 1997 but now owner Christine Bradshaw has decided it's time to shut the doors on the costume shop.
Christine said: "There are lots of reasons we are closing down; one of them is because I am retiring.
"We moved back to North Street a few years ago and its not been as successful as I'd hoped and the lease hasn't been extended.
"We'll be moving sales of accessories to the Corn Exchange café as of February 1.
"There are a lot of things that people want on a regular basis like wigs and make-up, which will be moved there.
"What people are looking for in costumes, however, is getting more and more challenging."
From the start of this year the costume department has been closed and the shop is currently only open on Saturdays or by appointment as it begins to move into the Corn Exchange.
Christine estimated that the shop stocked up to 5,000 costumes at its peak.
Stars from the 70s and 80s such as Freddie Mercury and Adam Ant have been some of the most popular costumes among customers.
Christine added: "I can't tell you how many times I've dressed someone as a Johnny Depp character.
"When something's in vogue like Frozen, Star Wars, Pirates of the Caribbean and Mary Poppins then it's really popular in the shop.
"We've done a lot of shows nationally as well up until around two or three years ago.
"The end of September to December 31 was always really hectic."
After announcing that the shop is to close, Christine said she is "sad in a lot of ways".
"I'd like to thank everyone in Stamford and the surrounding areas," she added.
"I've had some customers who came in the first few weeks with their children who are still coming in now with their grandchildren.
"I think a lot of people have more fun trying things on in the shop than they have at their party.
"We've brought a lot of fun and enjoyment and I think that we'll be missed."
For more of the latest news click here.