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It's a season of "getting" at Bridal Traditions. First, our National Bridal Sales Event is on from July 13th - 27th, with discounts on gowns, dresses and other items. We are also receiving new bridal gowns at our boutique from some of our favorite designers. If you missed the last blog about summer 2024 new arrivals, check it out. And without further delay, here are two more beauties to pique your interest. Meet THE RAPUNZEL Wedding GownWE KNOW! She's gorgeous. The Rapunzel gown announces that this bride is an individual. She's unique in her choices. Maybe she loves the poetic, or wants romantic details for her attire and day that set her apart. Perhaps she wants to give a nod to the Bohemian or Romantic eras. Regardless, this bride will be remembered. This is a gown like no other. If you haven't seen the Botticelli painting - Primavera (below) - check out the girl just right of center. She represents nature, beauty, and new beginnings. The Rapunzel captures that same freedom and hopefulness. ![]() The embroidery is exquisite on this gown, and the details are as beautiful as you hope they will be. This is NOT the dress you order from some sketchy online vendor that shows up looking like a high school project gone wrong. This is a beautifully executed gown. Meet THE SEREPHINA Wedding GownJust as the Rapunzel gown showcases nature and individuality, the Serephina is an absolute Love Letter to lace and femininity. From the bodice to the very last inch of the train, this gown is romantic, traditional, and attractive on women of all shapes and sizes. We love the sheer long sleeves on this gown. It's as if the bride is being pursued and adorned by the natural world. Another favorite part of this gown is the cluster of florals at the hemline at the back. The effect is striking, to say the least. Stay tuned for more new arrivals at BT by following us on social media @bridaltraditions. If you're ready to start looking, come see us by clicking the button below.
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Bridal Traditions Bride Trista Daniels purchased her gown, tiara, bridesmaids dresses and attire for the groom and groomsmen for her late June 2024 wedding. We loved that she reached out to share images from her day. She looked like a princess in the exquisite photos taken by photographer Kimberly Lackey. The veil, the gown, the flowing skirt and gorgeous bride... we love all of it. Congrats to Trista and her husband!
Interested in finding your "Yes Dress?" Click the link below! Cash & CArry SAle - July 13th onlyThis year, we are kicking off the NBSE with a One Day Only "Cash & Carry" Sale with extended hours. On Saturday, July 13th, we'll be open from 9am - 4pm. Walk-ins are welcome, and our fitting rooms will be first come, first served. WHAT'S ON SALE Homecoming, Prom, & Formal Dresses - $10 $1 - $10 Accessories (shoes, hair accessories, jewelry, etc.) Please remember that we have limited quantities and styles and cash means cash. We will not be accepting credit, debit, checks or IOUs for the Cash & Carry Sale. Wedding Dress SAle - JUly 13th - 27thEvery Wedding Dress in the Store is On Sale! Off-the-Rack Wedding Dresses = up to 90% off Final Sale Prices Ranging $100.00 - $1400.00 $100 Wedding Dresses are CASH ONLY and Limited Quantity (we will not accept debit/credit cards for cash only items) Special Order Wedding Dresses = $100 off Final Sale Prices Ranging $650.00 - $1400.00 This is the only time of year we discount special orders, so take advantage during this annual event! Bridal Appointments are Highly Recommended to Shop this Sale. If the online booking form shows no availability call us at 336-667-5423 to see if we have had a cancellation. We love seeing our bridal selections show up at the boutique, and our team springs into action to get them steamed and accessorized and ready to showcase. We have several new additions that we'll be rolling out in blogs over the coming weeks, so stay tuned. Today: two absolute stunners. The Wren gown and the Camille. The Wren GownThis gown is a column with gorgeous lace that starts on the bodice and around the waistline, and is picked up in the sheer lace overlay that creates a lace train. The result is breathtaking, ethereal and delicate. It's a classic in the making that nods to traditional lace gowns, but with modern spaghetti straps. The Camille GownIn a study of contrasts, next is the Camille gown, which has no lace, but is the picture of elegance and a new favorite of our team at BT. We've already had a bride drive from Ohio to our boutique to purchase this gown off the rack. It's pretty spectacular. What do we love about this gown? The damask brocade fabric, the deep V in the front and back, the pleats around the nipped in waist, the lovely line of buttons, and yes - the pockets! Adding the right veils, shoes and jewelry complete the look with all of our gowns, and both the Wren and Camille barely need more than a little accessorizing and you're ready to say, "I Do." So, if it isn't clear by now, we love ALL of the raw materials it takes to create a wedding, from the photos and movies, to the florals, the venue atmosphere, and extra "stuff," but most especially, we love the gowns. We love making brides look and feel beautiful, and inspiration is everywhere for us. When we see an alabaster column on an architectural wonder, we also see a modern gown that says sophistication. When we see a bowl turned upside down on a cooking show, we see a ball gown, in all of its romance, fairytales and frosting. And when we see lace, we think tradition, nostalgia, and the classic bridal silhouette. There is so much craftwork that goes into creating the desired illusion with lace gowns, so today we want to give some practical advice when shopping - with trepidation - for a lace wedding gown. When brides come into our boutique interested in trying on lace, we often see them trying to sort out why the gown looks so strikingly different on the hanger than it does on models. They see the mesh sheath underneath the lace, and slowly back away. "Will I look proper?" "Why does it look dingy?" "Does this look more like a prom gown than a wedding gown?" "What will my grandmother say?" The Rack vs. RealityGowns with a nude mesh liner look vastly different on the hanger than they do on your body, so we often dispel a bride's concerns with a simple directive: Try it on! We've heard brides say, "this lining looks muddy," but then will try on a couple of options and be thrilled with how the gown looks even on the palest skin. An ivory lace gown with nude, champagne or a similar colored lining looks incredible once you put it on. Even brides with very pale skin are astonished at how the mesh disappears, the white or ivory lace pops, and they still look covered and demure. Trust us on this! Remember that mesh lining helps create a canvas for the lace. Bright whites and colors pop when the "background" matches the skin, whether it's on your sleeves, under the skirt, bodice or throughout a gown. In the images above and below, the sleeves have a nude liner, and yet it's nearly impossible to spot. What is White?When our great-great grandmothers got married, they wore their very best dresses. After Queen Victoria chose to wear white for her wedding in the 19th century, it became the standard for brides everywhere. White symbolized virginity, purity, wealth, and so on. But most of those ladies said "I Do" wearing a color more akin to ivory or cream. We didn't have the bright white fabrics that we have today. To prove this point, all of the photos we've shared in this blog are actually using ivory gowns. As with the mesh lining- our eyes deceive us. What looks like a blinding bright white is actually softer and less harsh, while still being classic and modest. If you want to wear bright white for your wedding, we can help you sort that out while still trying on lace. If it's your second wedding and you'd feel better in a softer hue of white - don't fret. We can help you determine which styles of lace would suit the occasion and suit you best.
As always, we urge brides to keep an open mind when they are shopping with us, and encourage them to try on gowns that may not represent what they originally had in mind. You'll be surprised, we promise. If in doubt, try it on and ask questions! McKenna Blevins made it official by saying "I Do" to Jake Dolack, and Bridal Traditions was so happy to do what we love most: get the bride and the attire sorted out and ready for photographers, parents, friends and the memories to come. Treasured Times Studios was on hand in our boutique to grab fitting shots - and expressions - of McKenna and her entourage. We particularly loved the images of "The Gown Search" and seeing the bride emerging from the dressing room to twirl and grin. The Search for a Gown at Bridal TraditionsNuptials with a Water FeatureIf you thought this lady looked pretty fab (or pretty AND fabulous) while she was trying on gowns with us, the images from her wedding to Jake tell the rest of the gorgeous story. A waterfall, spoken vows, huge smiles and a commitment. Isn't that all you need for a wedding day?
Thanks to Bacalao Films Video and Photography for sharing these images with us. Hello Brides and Summer Readers, Today's contribution to our ongoing blog about weddings features some traditions scooped up from around the world. Have you ever wondered why couples in Greece wear crowns? Or what the gold coins represent in Spain? Did you just find out that your great-great-great grandmother was Polish and want to incorporate a sense of her wedding into yours? We're here to help! . From the United KingdomSomething Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue. This rhyme highlights the tradition of the bride carrying items that represent continuity, optimism for the future, borrowed happiness, and fidelity. This one made it across the pond to our shores and is still quite common in American weddings. Confetti and Rice. Guests often throw confetti or rice at the newlyweds as they leave the ceremony, symbolizing fertility and prosperity. And yes, we love this one too. Brides have moved away from this a bit and chosen bird seed, but the meaning still spells C-E-L-E-B-R-A-T-I-O-N! FRench WeddingsCroquembouche. Instead of a traditional wedding cake, French weddings often feature a croquembouche, a tower of cream-filled profiteroles bound with caramel. La Mairie. French couples must have a civil ceremony at the town hall, often followed by a religious ceremony if they choose. The French manage to be such a culture of romance, and yet a civil service is all that is mandatory to be married. Tres chic. Wedding TRaditions in GreeceStefana. The bride and groom wear crowns connected by a ribbon, symbolizing the union of two people into a single couple. These crowns can be ornate or made with natural elements, but the symbolism is unmistakable. Money Dance. Guests pin money to the bride and groom's clothing during the reception, providing financial support for their new life together. iTALYLa Tarantella. This traditional dance at Italian weddings is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. Confetti (Sugared Almonds). Five almonds are given to guests, symbolizing health, wealth, happiness, fertility, and longevity. wEDDING tRADITIONS IN sPAINArras. During the ceremony, the groom gives the bride 13 gold coins, known as arras, symbolizing his commitment to support her. Seguidillas Manchegas. A traditional Spanish dance often performed at weddings. We love our bride/groom, father/daughter or other choreographed dances, so we co-sign on any kind of dance that kicks off a reception. Poland's Wedding TraditionsOczepiny. A post-midnight tradition where the bride's veil is removed, symbolizing her transition from bride to wife, often accompanied by playful games. Cheers to long receptions that bleed into games and stories after midnight! Bread and Salt. Newlyweds are greeted with bread and salt, symbolizing prosperity and the ability to overcome life's challenges. These two elements are the food and flavor of life, as well, so consider pulling them into your ceremony as gestures to yourselves and your guests.. GermanyPolterabend. On the night before the wedding, guests break porcelain dishes to bring good luck to the couple. The bride and groom then clean up the shards together, symbolizing teamwork. Log Cutting. After the ceremony, the bride and groom saw a log in half together, demonstrating their ability to work together and overcome obstacles. Girls and Guys: if you want to look great while sawing your log in half we've got you!
Sabrina married her beloved Stephen in February of 2024 at Circle M Farms in Lincolnton, NC, surrounded by 140 of their favorite people in the world. Sabrina knew that she wanted a winter themed wedding, and later told us, "it was a party!" The WEdding at Circle M FarmThis outdoor wedding was truly beautiful, from the wooden hexagon adorned with flowers from Noble Artistry Floral, to the emerald green attire (the bridesmaids' gown and groomsmen's ties), to the little wagon that towed their son, Axel to the altar as ringbearer, it was personal, classic and celebratory. Catering for the reception was provided by Roots Cafe and everyone enjoyed the food and conversation. Sabrina's Winter Wedding GownSabrina's gown was gorgeous on her and perfect for the season and the traditional atmosphere. What's so wonderful about a winter wedding is the promise of cooler temperatures, especially if you're getting married outside. For Sabrina's gown we suggested adding sleeves, and she happily agreed; they helped complete her vision for a February wedding and went seamlessly with her gown's existing design. This dress had lots of lace, with patterns that incorporated natural elements like leaves, flowers, vines and branches at the bodice, skirt, and sheer sleeves. It was perfect for the natural setting, and she looked so comfortable and so happy! Congratulations to Sabrina and Stephen as they start their new life together! We love that we were part of their big day!
Believe it or not (and you should believe us because we've been in this industry for over two decades), brides-to-be walk into our boutique a few weeks before their wedding day looking for their dream gown. They're excited, they have a wish list, and we hate to ruin that buzz, but the truth is this: there is a 95% chance that they are not going to get "The Dress" they truly want for their big day. But you don't have to despair. Plan ahead if you can - and read on, because there are options for you if you've run out of time. When this happens, you have to know that we SO want to wave a wand, like the fairy godmother in Cinderella, and whip up a frock just for you out of thin air and hope. What we can do is see what is on our racks or can be acquired quickly. We ask that brides keep an open mind when it comes to their wish lists, whether they've given themselves 12 months or 4 weeks. Brides are often amazed at how many beautiful gowns are available off the rack. So breathe and be flexible. We at BT are always ready to work with you. HOw much time to Choose Your GownSo here is what you should keep in mind if you're engaged and have begun planning. If you come into our boutique 3 - 4 months before your wedding date, you can expect to buy off the rack. You will have a gown to wear down the aisle and we do not stock ugly gowns, ladies! Our off the rack gowns are wonderful, and brides leave with them truly excited, but you may not get everything on your list. We recommend that brides order a dress between 9 and 12 months before their wedding date, and 6 months at the bare minimum. Keep in mind this is specific recommendation for our store and this timeline will be different at different boutiques. Why Do you Need this Amount of Time?When you find your gown, you rarely walk out of the store with a big white garment bag slung over your shoulder. If you do, God bless you. But in most cases, your dress is ordered from the factory, and goes into production so it can be created in your size and colors choice. This takes time. There are no warehouses filled with multiple sizes of every single gown designed by every designer on the planet. This is not fast fashion that ends up at H&M or Old Navy. Wedding gowns take time, whether they have tons of beading, crystals, or sequins, or lace. Even minimalist gowns have to be sewn and created for you. You want a gorgeous look for your day and that means allowing the gown to be made for you. If you have questions for us, we hope that you'll reach out, but the bottom line with is DO NOT WAIT to order your wedding gown. Give yourself the treat of spending time with us. We have bridal suites and experiences, superb vendors and amazing relationships with everyone with whom we work.
The rehearsal dinner... that evening before the wedding, when famiy and friends gather to celebrate the couple and their journey to the altar. It's an event filled with food, toasts, and often fun little additions like 18 holes of golf for the guys or a spa day for mothers and daughters and bridesmaids. But at the minimum, it's a chance to be together in a more relaxed setting than the wedding day. Hosts: Traditionally, the rehearsal dinner is hosted by the groom's family. However, nowadays it's not uncommon for the couple or both families to host the event together. In some cases, close friends or other relatives may also take on the hosting duties. Guest List: The guest list for the rehearsal dinner typically includes the wedding party (bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girl, ring bearer), immediate family members of the couple, and sometimes out-of-town guests who have traveled for the wedding. Depending on the size and budget of the event, additional friends or relatives may also be invited. Remember to listen to your instincts and keep it small if that's what you want. And be respectful of those paying for the wedding. Invitations: Rehearsal dinner invitations are usually sent out separately from the wedding invitations. They can be formal or informal, depending on the tone of the event. Make sure to include important details such as the date, time, location, and RSVP information. Venue and Theme: The rehearsal dinner can be held at a variety of venues, such as a restaurant, banquet hall, private home, or outdoor location. Choose a venue and theme that reflects the couple's personalities and preferences. It can be formal or casual, depending on the style of the wedding. Rehearsal dinners can also be a big party that is unstructured. Do what makes you happy! Timing: The rehearsal dinner typically takes place the night before the wedding, after the wedding rehearsal itself. This allows everyone to practice the ceremony and then relax and enjoy a meal together before the big day. Seating Arrangements: Consider seating arrangements carefully to ensure that everyone feels comfortable and included. Traditionally, the bride and groom sit at the head of the table, with their parents and other family members nearby. The wedding party usually sits together as well. Toasts and Speeches: It's common for the host or hosts of the rehearsal dinner to give a welcome speech or toast to thank everyone for attending. Other members of the wedding party, such as the best man and maid of honor, may also give toasts or speeches to honor the couple. We've all heard about these toasts getting out of hand, so pace yourselves and remember to be respectful of what to say and ... what NOT to say. Gifts and Favors: While gifts are not typically expected at the rehearsal dinner, the hosts may choose to give small tokens of appreciation to the guests, such as personalized favors or thank-you gifts. Similarly, the couple may choose to give gifts to their wedding party as a thank-you for their support. Relax and Enjoy: Above all, the rehearsal dinner is a time to relax, unwind, and enjoy the company of loved ones before the wedding day. Don't stress too much about the details—focus on creating happy memories with your closest friends and family members.
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