A CORNERSTONE of independent trading in Penarth has shown off its new look.

The Queen B Boutique on Stanwell Road has thrown open its doors after a major refit and refurbishment.

Owner Jodie Tanner said: “We started seriously planning the refit in the New Year, though the desire has been there for the last two years.

"The occasion side of the business has grown phenomenally quickly and we’ve had customers that have come from hours away – even overseas. We wanted to bring the boutique up to those standards.

"On October 3 we are turning 10 years old. We really felt we needed to step the business up in terms of visuals and we wanted it ready for the celebration.”

The redesigned shop now boasts chandeliers, a revamped mezzanine and a carefully restored Victorian ceiling.

“I particularly love the new lighting,” said Ms Tanner. “It really takes it to a different level.

“Thank you to everyone for the support – especially Alex Mules of AM Interiors by Design, and Daryl Smith of Coastal Carpentry and Shop Fitters for their enormous help.

"The community have certainly embraced us and we get support from near and far. People come in just to say hello. We just hope to keep that link strong in the future.”