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. 

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.

Faith 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.

Here'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.

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.
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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.

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. 

When 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.

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!

When 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!

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.”
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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. 

Joanna'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.