Fitting new bathroom. Where do I start?!

[TheBubGrower]

I want to replace my 3 piece suite, fit an electric shower and re-tile. My OH thinks we should measure up then source our own suite then hire a local plumber to fit, whereas I'm tempted by going to a store that offers the whole service from measuring up to designing and fitting. I'm guessing it adds on cost to do the latter but in reality is it worth it? Does anyone have any experience of this and any recomendations for particular stores that offer this service? Thanks!

In my experience, the bathroom companies who sell package bathrooms use cheap stuff they’ve bought in bulk and mark it up when pricing the bathroom!
I would get the stuff yourself, or find a plumber recommended locally and go from there. Tiles can vary hugely- I am very happy with B&Q tiles we have used but you can be looking at £70 a square m if you choose premium tiles which can really add up.

We used a local installer who came with good recommendations, not to mention a brilliant subcontracted tiler, but sourced all the kit ourself. 7 years on, we're still happy with the outcome.

Thanks for the responses. I think we're going to take on a local plumber/small company who can do everything. Going through the process of getting quotes now

Find a plumber/fitter first. You might get a better deal on shower/fixtures etc from their suppliers. A good one will also be able to give you ideas of what will/won't work. We had one done recently and the plumber suggested moving the sink - I hadn't thought about it and it was absolutely the right thing to do!