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WIRRAL LIFE MEETS: NEIL PAUL COOPER – THE ALTERATIONS DOCTOR
Wirral Life had the pleasure of chatting with Neil Paul Cooper, 47 years young; born and bred in Wirral, a talented fashion designer, alterations expert, and successful businessman who has gone from strength to strength since opening his first solo business, Repooc Couture, in 2005.
Early Years and Education. Neil graduated with a BA( Hons) Degree in Fashion, Design & Textiles from Liverpool John Moores University in 2001. During his time there, his creativity and craftsmanship were already making waves, earning him the incredible opportunity to showcase his final collection on the catwalk at London Fashion Week. It was a defining moment that set the tone for his future career in fashion. From that point onwards, it was clear that Neil’ s passion and drive would take him far. Today, he is best known as“ The Alterations Doctor”, a name that has become synonymous with precision, quality, and bridal elegance.
The Journey So Far. Like many entrepreneurs, Neil has faced his share of challenges, yet his passion, commitment, and positive energy have always carried him through. After leaving university, he launched his own successful fashion retail and design business, Repooc Couture, which thrived for many years. Sadly, when Covid-19 hit, the impact on independent businesses was devastating, and Neil was forced to close his beloved shop, an emotional and defining moment in his journey. Neil’ s husband, Kristian, recalls that time vividly:“ We were devastated. I remember sitting in the shop with him as we emptied it together. It just stopped … he worked so hard and was one of the last men standing. There was nothing financially he could do to save it, but nothing stops him.”
Following that chapter, Neil took on managerial roles at Calvin Klein in Cheshire Oaks and House of Fraser, where his dedication never faltered. Still, his heart remained in fashion design, and the bridal world was calling him back.
What Have You Achieved Since Then? In 2019, Neil launched The Alterations Doctor, marking the beginning of an exciting new era. He opened the business with a vision to keep the bridal experience going once every bride says“ yes” to her dress, ensuring that the journey from purchase to final fitting remains every bit as magical and personal.
The business has since grown into a thriving, respected bridal alterations and design brand, known for its quality, creativity, and attention to detail. Working alongside multiple bridal boutiques, Neil and his talented team specialise in bridal alterations and bespoke bridal design, helping every bride achieve her perfect fit and dream look.“ Since opening up in 2019, I’ ve realised how unique the industry has become,” says Neil.“ There aren’ t many people offering specialist bridal alterations anymore, which has made our services more in demand than ever before.”
Over time, The Alterations Doctor has gone from strength to strength, earning recognition for its amazing catwalk shows, wedding fairs, and open days that continue to inspire brides and showcase Neil’ s
exceptional craftsmanship. Neil now leads a growing team, including Poppy Pleavin, who drives the business on social media, keeping it stylish, active, and engaging, and Cathy, a skilled seamstress helping to meet the ever-increasing demand for bridal services.
Beyond Alterations. But The Alterations Doctor is much more than just a tailoring service. The business now offers special touches for everyone’ s wedding day, including bespoke flower girl dresses, elegant candles, and stunning fascinators in every colour to complete your final look.
They also offer a large collection of veils, available in a variety of lengths and styles, allowing every bride to find the perfect finishing touch to complement her gown and overall bridal vision. Neil’ s sister brand, Bellaré Gowns, also provides a beautiful range of occasion wear, from wedding guest outfits and prom dresses to elegant evening attire, making it a one-stop destination for all things bridal and beyond.“ I’ m a very driven individual who lives, breathes, and sleeps everything bridal,” says Neil.“ It’ s my world, and I love being part of someone’ s most important day.”
Planning Ahead. With wedding gowns now taking 8 – 10 months to arrive, Neil advises brides to book their fittings 6 – 8 months in advance to ensure their dresses are perfectly tailored in time for the big day.
The Aftercare. The bridal journey doesn’ t end once the big day is over. The Alterations Doctor now offers a professional dry-cleaning service, giving brides the option to have their gown carefully cleaned and preserved after their wedding. This thoughtful aftercare ensures that every dress remains as beautiful as the memories it holds.
What Does the Future Have in Store for The Alterations Doctor? The future is bright for Neil and his team. With a growing client base, new collaborations, and an exciting calendar of bridal showcases, wedding fairs, and catwalk events, The Alterations Doctor continues to evolve and inspire the next generation of brides. And there’ s even more on the horizon, Neil is now in talks to launch his very own bridal gown collection, a dream project that’ s already generating excitement within the industry. It’ s something to keep an eye out for in the upcoming year, as it promises to bring Neil’ s signature craftsmanship and modern elegance to life in a brand-new way. Neil’ s vision is clear, to keep creating confidence, elegance, and individuality for every person who walks through his doors.
“ The best part of my job,” Neil reflects,“ is seeing the look on a bride’ s face when her gown fits perfectly. That moment, that smile, makes everything worthwhile.”
Contact: The Alterations Doctor T: 0151 271 3176 M: 0788 188 1182 E: Neilpaulcooper @ yahoo. co. uk
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