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Whether it’s for a wedding, a job interview, or a big night out, every guy needs a go-to suit that fits well and feels even better. Enter the Metro suit, a modern essential that blends sharp style with next-level comfort. Designed with 4-way stretch fabric and an inner gusset at the armpit, this suit moves with you, not against you. So whether you're reaching for a champagne toast or dancing through the reception, you’ll look crisp without feeling constricted. Coming in a variety of colors and shades, this suit can set you up for years of events and every day wear. This suit also features adjustable elastic-waist pants for an easy, tailored fit—no matter your build. Available in a wide range of sizes, including big and tall, it’s a versatile choice that works year-round thanks to its lightweight construction. This isn’t a tux, and it doesn’t pretend to be—it's a high-performance suit for guys who need to show up and look great, again and again. Because we do not stock these at our boutique in every size and color, you'll need to come see us for measurements, color and fit, but we are ready for you, guys! Stop in Bridal Traditions and see what suits and tuxes might be right for your next event.
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Every bride deserves to feel beautiful and confident on her wedding day—but the journey to finding the dress can be filled with shock, and frustration, especially when it comes to the expected cost. One of the biggest challenges brides face is sifting through misleading information, particularly from online bridal boutiques that promise luxury looks at rock-bottom prices. These too-good-to-be-true deals often come with hidden costs: poor craftsmanship, incorrect sizing, unflattering fabrics, and the heartbreaking realization that what has arrived in the mail isn’t at all what was pictured. So here is a plan and some tips to consider and warnings to remember! Do Your Gown Homework![]() Before you begin shopping, do your research. A common misconception brides make is assuming that knockoff gowns are “just as good” as designer originals. Moms and brides alike sometimes assume they’re paying only for the name, but what they’re really paying for is skilled tailoring, luxurious fabrics, expert design, and a fit that makes you feel incredible. Knockoffs almost always fall short in all these areas. From uneven hems to stiff linings and misplaced embellishments, the differences are more obvious in person than they may seem on a screen. A little light Googling for "prom dress or wedding gown disasters" will provide all the "Buyer Beware" stories you'll need for a lifetime. Additionally, many online retailers post heavily edited photos, use designer images without permission, and overpromise on delivery timelines and quality. A gown listed for $200 might look stunning online, but in person, it will likely be poorly constructed and made from cheaper materials. There are countless stories of brides who thought they were getting a deal, only to end up scrambling for a backup plan weeks before the big day. Buying a wedding gown is not just an online transaction—it’s an emotional investment that deserves careful, informed decision-making. Another miscalculation that often trips brides up is the belief that a “simple gown” should come with a simple price tag. Minimalist doesn’t always mean inexpensive. In fact, the cleaner the silhouette, the more noticeable poor construction becomes. Most brides will purchase undergarments even with a designer gown that has all the structure and support. If you've chosen a simpler gown hoping to avoid these extra purchases, you will find this difficult. Many budget-friendly sheath dresses (think for an elopement or casual beach wedding) skip essential built-in elements like structure, boning, and support, meaning the bride has to piece together shapewear, slips, and bras in hopes of achieving the right fit. This adds to the frustration and the cost, so understand that when you head out to shop. Set a BudgetSetting a realistic dress budget doesn’t mean overspending—it means understanding what things actually cost and deciding what matters most. A reputable bridal salon will help you find the best quality and style within your price range and offer expert guidance along the way. At BT, we relish this part of the process, and enjoy educating curious brides-to-be when they have questions about style and fit. The peace of mind that comes from trying on gowns in person, seeing the real materials, and having professionals on your side is worth every penny. At BT. our gowns range from $600 to $1600 and these are from designer labels we've curated specifically based on design, quality and price point. We've done the searching for you! PLan Your ShoppingFor discerning brides who want both quality and value, timing is everything. One of the best ways to find a designer gown at a more affordable price is to watch for sales at trusted brick-and-mortar bridal boutiques. These are not knockoffs—they’re genuine pieces from reputable designers, sold off the rack. Bridal Traditions is gearing up for our annual National Bridal Sale Event this July, offering brides the perfect opportunity to find a dream dress. Shopping in person allows you to feel the fabrics, try on styles, and work with those of us who know these products and care about your experience. A great deal doesn’t have to come at the cost of quality—it just has to come at the right time and from the right place. In the end, your wedding dress is one of the most photographed and remembered parts of the day. Rather than gamble on a knockoff or fall for a flashy online bargain, take the time to set a budget that reflects your values and priorities—and find a gown that honors both your vision and your investment.
The WeddingFaith Barlow and Tyler Watson were married in April 2025 at the beautifully rustic Williams Farm in Lenoir, North Carolina. Their love story began in the summer of 2017, when they first met as teenagers—Faith was 15, and Tyler was 16—on the Fourth of July. Three years later, their paths reconnected in an unexpected but meaningful way. Tyler returned home from college during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the two began spending time together again. What started as a reconnection quickly deepened into something lasting, one of the many unexpected blessings that came from such a difficult time. On their wedding day, emotions ran high—as they often do. Faith had chosen not to do a first look, but when pre-ceremony jitters crept in after her bridesmaids had left, her photographer suggested a first touch instead. That quiet, grounding moment—just holding Tyler’s hand and hearing his voice—was all she needed to find calm before walking down the aisle. Faith's Wedding GownHere's where we enter the story at Bridal Traditions! Faith’s had her heart set on a strapless silk gown she had seen online, but when she tried it on, it didn’t feel like her at all. What she ended up choosing was a completely different look—a romantic lace dress with a dramatic train and detachable sleeves. The unique design gave her the best of both worlds: elegant sleeves for the ceremony and portraits, and a sleeker, dance-ready silhouette for the reception. When the sleeves came off for the party, it created an unexpected transformation that reflected Faith’s fun and graceful style. Her gown, much like her story with Tyler, was a beautiful reminder that sometimes the best things are the ones you never planned. And boy do we relish a love story that ends in lace!
Choosing the jacket and jeans, three-piece suit or formal tux is the biggest part of getting the groom attired for his wedding. Is this you or soon to be you? Well once that piece is solved, the next step is to accessorize. Let' just say that the options are plenty, allowing you grooms out there to show off your personality! Ties & Bow Ties Your tie sets the tone. A silk necktie is timeless, while a bow tie leans formal and festive. Want to stand out? Choose a fabric with texture—like knit or velvet—or opt for a color that plays off the wedding palette. Pocket Squares Small but mighty, a pocket square adds instant flair. Go for a subtle fold with a solid color for elegance, or a bold pattern to show personality. Often the square is complimentary to your tie. Cufflinks These pieces of men's jewelry aren’t just for tuxedos. Even with a suit, they add sophistication. They can be sleek and modern or engraved and sentimental—ideal for custom monograms or meaningful symbols. Boutonnières Traditionally worn by the groom and groomsmen, a boutonnière adds a natural touch that ties in with the wedding florals. Fresh flowers are classic, but dried or fabric versions can be just as striking. Watches A good watch is more than a timepiece—it’s part of your overall style. Whether you go vintage, modern, or minimalist, make sure it complements your look (and doesn’t overpower it). And if it's a family heirloom, all the better. Suspenders Great for vintage or rustic weddings, suspenders can be both practical and stylish. They’re perfect if you’re skipping a belt or want a bit of old-school charm. Belts & Shoes A well-polished pair of dress shoes and a coordinating belt are non-negotiable. Brown for daytime or rustic weddings, black for formality. Bonus points for shoes that are stylish and comfortable. Socks Fun socks are a modern trend—and a great way to sneak in color, patterns, or even a personal joke. Definitely get your groomsmen involved. For formal looks, match them to your pants or shoes. Whether you're aiming for refined elegance, vintage charm, or a splash of fun, these small details create a big impact—and ensure that your wedding look is truly yours.
After 25 wonderful years of offering bridesmaids dresses, we're making a shift at Bridal Traditions. We've loved serving bridal parties with a curated selection from top designers, but as the industry evolves, so must we. So we are phasing out our bridesmaids collections and will no longer carry bridesmaids dresses after July 2025. So while we are saying bye-bye, we're also telling you that if you want to shop our selection, it is also time to buy. What you need to know:
Moving forward, we'll focus on expanding our bridal gown collections and menswear offerings—and we’ve got a few other exciting ideas in the works too. We’re not going anywhere, and we believe in being open with our customers every step of the way.
Thanks for being part of the Bridal Traditions family. Brittany and Dustin met six years ago at their jobs, and Brittany shared that they knew from Day One that they would get married. Sure enough, they made it official in November of 2024 at Gatlinburg’s Little Log Wedding Chapel. Brittany: "We decided an 'intimate elopement' with close friends and family would be perfect for us." It was a beautiful ceremony, and having their 2 sons there to watch them commit themselves to each other made it extra special. For his groom's look, Dustin chose a trend we're seeing more and more of these days: the suit coat with jeans. By just adding the jacket, tie and boutonniere, he looks wonderful. Brittany's Wedding GownWhen this bride came to us for a gown, she knew she wanted some lace detail, but was curious to see her options. We applaud this! Keep an open-mind when you can, brides out there. Owner Kelly helped with the process by laying out a selection, and Brittany chose a gown Kelly brought out that wasn't even on the floor yet. The lace truly makes this gown sing. From the bodice to the details on the waist, all the way down throughout the skirt, it's a stunner. Brittany told us that her favorite features were the sleeves, the open back, and all the covered buttons. The new Mrs. looked every inch like a bride in our shop and on her big day in the late fall. SUCCESS! Many, many congratulations to the Bares!
When it comes to finding the perfect wedding gown, or prom dress it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that one more store or one more fitting will reveal "the one." With endless inspiration from Pinterest, bridal shows, and social media, brides often feel pressure to keep searching, convinced there’s always something better just around the corner. What starts as an exciting adventure can quickly turn into an overwhelming marathon of appointments, fittings, and second-guessing. We see this year after year with prom goers as well. Girls find the dress they want, but the price point has their parents wishing they would try "just one more shop" to beat the price or to make sure you haven't missed "the one." Ladies: chances are that you're just adding mileage and frustration to the mix. Ultimately, you don't save money, and you find yourself stressed out. Over-shopping can actually make your decision harder, not easier. The more gowns a bride tries on, the more the options can blur together, making it difficult to remember what you loved about the earlier dresses. Instead of feeling confident and joyful, many brides experience decision fatigue, confusion, and doubt. We see it at BT and know that can take an emotional toll — what should feel like a magical milestone becomes stressful, and some brides even find themselves dreading dress shopping altogether. The truth is, the perfect gown isn't about checking every box on a list or finding a "better" dress at the next boutique. It’s about how you feel in the gown: confident, beautiful, and true to yourself. Trusting your instincts early in the process — when you feel that spark — can save you time, stress, and help preserve the excitement of saying yes to your dream dress. Sometimes, less truly is more. What we suggest is that you do your research, have some styles and features you know you like and may want to try on, and then start shopping with an open mind. Know your budget or price range, trust your instincts and listen to wise counsel. If you find a gown that makes you feel beautiful and look the way you want to look and feel on your wedding day, then stop looking. Trust yourself and know that our team is here to help and answer questions. We've got you and you've got THIS!
Georgia and her sweetheart Gabe had a Christmas wedding in 2024 at White Sulphur Springs. It was a beautiful ceremony with all the joy, colors and excitement of the holiday season, and it was all documented by Nixon Captures. The bride chose jewel tones for her bridesmaids and special attendants, and along with her red and green bouquet, the charming outdoor setting at the fireplace/alter, everything felt festive. It was like a holiday wedding in Victorian England, ... but with all of the modern comforts of course! The coupleWe met through a mutual friend Eli, who was having a pool party we both attended. We didn’t talk much that day, but kept catching each other looking at the other. Later that night, I asked Eli for Gabe’s phone number and we started texting, hanging out, and immediately knew we were meant to be together! The BT Wedding DressWhen we asked Georgia if she left our shop with her original idea for a gown, the answer was an immediate "Yes!" "The dress that I chose was the first one I tried on and it exceeded my expectations in every way. Seeing the reactions on everyone’s face when the curtain opened was priceless. I knew it was the one!" The beautiful floral lace detailing on the sleeves of Georgia's gown, could also be found scattered over layers of tulle in her skirt. This is one of those dresses that looks both intentional in its design, but completely organic too! The effect was effortless and romantic. Holiday weddings, particularly those held when people are already excited to gather and celebrate, have a particular sparkle to them. Georgia and Gabe's definitely did, and everyone at BT wishes these two so much happiness, as they begin this new adventure together!
This year marks 25 years of Bridal Traditions — a quarter-century of lace, laughter, tulle, tears of joy, prom nights, wedding days, and everything in between. For owner Kelly Shumate, this milestone is more than a business anniversary. It’s a celebration of people, perseverance, and a deep love for helping others feel beautiful on the days that matter most. “No ONE person makes a business run for 25 years,” Kelly says. “It takes a village, and I have mine. I’m beyond grateful for each coworker, each volunteer, and each dear friend who has poured part of themselves into Bridal Traditions because they love me.” From the very beginning, Kelly knew she was building more than just a bridal shop. Bridal Traditions has become a space where memories are made — where teenage boys get fitted for their first 8th-grade social, return for prom tuxes, and eventually stop in to be suited up for their weddings. It’s where girls step into prom gowns and later return as women, shopping for the dress they’ll walk down the aisle in. These ongoing relationships are what set Bridal Traditions apart. “Those relationships — with brides, with moms, with girls and their best friends — they’re priceless,” Kelly says. “They’re why we do what we do.” Karlee, one of the women on the BT team, knows exactly what Kelly means. “I love learning from the people I work with, being close to them,” Karlee says. “And I love that we inspire our town. The fashion business is ever changing, but fashion is still such a powerful way for people to express themselves." And it has not always been easy. As a woman and a solo business owner, Kelly has faced the challenges of a world-wide pandemic (during her 20 year anniversary) and a change in consumer buying options and habits over the last two decades. But even with all the ups, downs, and surprises, she understands that there are still opportunities for brick and mortar stores to play a hug role in the lives of individuals and communities. She relishes those relationships to this day. Through trends and seasons, Kelly’s love for fashion and celebration has remained constant. “I still love ‘the pretty,’” she laughs. “I was a Barbie girl — all my Barbies were getting dressed up and going to a party! So getting to help others get dressed up for their special moment? I love being in that little group of people who get to do that.” And it’s not just Kelly who feels that way. Caylen, also on the BT team, shares the same enthusiasm and pride in what Bridal Traditions offers its clients. “It doesn’t feel like any other job,” Caylen says. “The environment here is so personal — it feels like family. And it’s amazing to get to be expressive and creative, and to help brides and prom girls feel like the most beautiful version of themselves.” Karlee adds, “No matter what kind of day I’m having, seeing the looks on the faces of our brides and prom girls when they try on something that makes them feel beautiful — it’s worth it. That’s the moment that keeps me coming back." Whether it's watching someone light up when they find the dress or simply being part of the journey leading up to a big day, the BT team cherishes every moment.
“Everyone has a glow about them when they put the dress on,” Caylen adds. “Getting to be a small part of that big day — that’s a win for me.” There’s a little magic in what happens inside Bridal Traditions. It's not just about finding a dress — it's about finding confidence, celebrating milestones, and feeling truly seen and supported. For 25 years, Kelly and her team have offered just that, and more. As Kelly looks to the future, her heart is full of gratitude and hope. “I love the girls I work with. I see their passion, and I want to continue to succeed for them, for myself, and for this town. This year has been full of fun and connection — and we’re just getting started.” Here’s to 25 years of Bridal Traditions — and the many beautiful stories still to come Joanna Arthur and Jonah Riceman, both criminal defense attorneys, were married November 1st of 2024 at, where else, a courthouse. They chose a place where they met twice while working and before finally deciding to date. After their ceremony at the Monroe County Courthouse, these two started the party at Her Majesty's Kitchen where they were joined by more friends and family. According to Joanna the entire wedding day was "perfection." At Bridal Traditions, we loved being the bride's choice for her wedding attire. She looked incredible, and photographers from The Eubanks Wedding Photo Company captured moments for the bride to share with us. The WEdding GownJoanna's gown was a study in bohemian elegance and lace, with added sleeves and a veil to complete the look. She told us that her favorite features were the scalloped lace and the buttons down the back. We agree! Congratulations to Joanna and Jonah and cheers to many happy decades together.
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