Every year almost 270,000 UK couple say "I do" and declare their love and support for each other.

Couples are married in traditional religious services, in civil ceremonies in a rich variety of locations, sometimes at home, sometimes abroad. There are couples that spend several years planning their special day, others only weeks, but the average time is just 14 months.

So much to do, so many decisions to be made, but for the bride the biggest personal decision lies in choosing her outfit. With the average price of a wedding dress, running out at just less than a thousand pounds, it represents just a small part of the total spend.

It's the reception and honeymoon that accounts for most of the £17,000 laid out by the couple, often supported by friends and relatives.

With so much to organise, so many friends and relatives involved, the couple need to be sure that they are dealing with a reputable retailer.

Visit any RBA shop, and you'll find scores of Thank You Notes and photographs from satisfied clients.

RBA shops are privately owned, often family-run businesses and have no connection with impersonal multiple stores.

Did you know?

Every RBA member will have been trading for more than five years

RBA members have their premises and accounts regularly inspected

RBA shops offer a full alterations service as part of the total service for the bride.

RBA members' insurance policy covers gowns in storage prior to the wedding day.

RBA shops require brides to pay only 50% of the price of their goods on ordering.

Some offer a helpfull stage payments system or special finance terms.