Bridal Traditions Turns 25!

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