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The Great Tipping DebatePicture this: You race into a family restaurant to pick up your "grab-and-go" dinner. You opened the app, you placed the order, you entered your payment info, jumped into your car, drove to the restaurant, and brought everything home for your family to eat. Did you tip the person who handed you the bags of dinner? Should you tip when no one served you? If you haven't had this conversation with friends recently, you've probably seen news stories about it. We find ourselves in a tipping culture, where economics and perceived service blend into a moment that can be confusing and quickly add up. Tipping is about serviceAt Bridal Traditions, we're never too eager to jump into public debate, especially one that is more complicated than it appears. But this topic comes up and we do have our own thoughts about it. So as part of the ongoing "educational" aspect to this blog, here are our two cents worth. For us at Bridal Traditions, tipping is about service. In fact, we've had brides and clients ask us if it was okay to tip, so we began providing that option based on those we serve. We love that this is the case, by the way. When customers see what you do goes beyond providing a fitting room and taking measurements, then we're doing our jobs well. The long and short of it is: if we provided service to you while you were shopping with us, we hope you'll feel like tipping your consultant. We never set an expectation and we NEVER make anyone feel guilty or shamed into tipping. If you're inclined, we hope you'll consider it. Often, our consultants work with brides (usually welcoming parties of 4 or more) for at least an hour and a half. These consultants provide wisdom and insight, but they are also listening to your story, your dream gown details, learning about your theme, what you envision. They then go into our gown selections and pulling dresses that meet those expectations. Our consultants are also listening for what isn't being said, and they are choosing gowns that you might not think would work, but that you'll end up LOVING. This happens all the time! In other words, we provide service, attention, and care and plan to meet, if not exceed, every bride's expectations. And after the bride is gone, we put everything back in order and take care of every item that wasn't chosen, so that our next brides have the same experience filled with possibility. Tipping is never automaticIf you're unsure about tipping consider these two points.
1) Was your experience more "help yourself" than heavy on customer service? Running in to get measured for an order or a quick accessory purchase - absolutely there's no need to tip! 2) Our tipping is not the usual. We don't start with an automatic assumption that 15 or 18% should be considered. Wedding gowns are not cheap and this is a big and important expense. For this reason, we start by giving our customers the option of tipping as low as 3%, because we know the item you're purchasing is way more than a meal with a large drink. When all else fails, follow your gut. We don't judge you based on what you spent or the amount that's tipped. What we care about most is that every single bride and customer feels seen, heard and well cared for. Come see us if you're ready to start your shopping adventure! And if you want to tip, please know that our amazing team is grateful.
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We embrace the cottagecore style and vibe at Bridal Traditions, even as we provide traditional, modern/minimalist, and even more avant-garde style wedding gowns as well. (Yes, you can get a black wedding gown from us.) But brides who come to BT looking for this idyllic style and what it represents - a simple life, more ease, less structure and absolute romance - can also find some pretty dreamy options and ideas at our boutique shop. CottageCore is a vibeCottagecore Wedding Gown QualitiesInspired by the rustic, bucolic life, a cottagecore wedding gown features probably what you imagine already: off the shoulder sleeves, no tight strictures or architectural column silhouettes, no minimalist "satin only" design. This style is out of a fairytale, and and inspired by country life. Think tiers of fabric, think florals and lace, think flowing skirts with layers and layers of tulle, and think nature, floral prints, leaves, forests and, ... you get the idea. You may see boning around the bodice and waist, or corsets, which are throwbacks to the middle ages, and those details provide whimsy and romance as well. Are you in love yet? Special touches for Cottagecore BridesAt BT, we can help you choose not only a gown in this style, but the accessories that go with it. If you perhaps only want a hint of cottagecore, then these pieces will work too. Bridal Traditions Pulls CottagecoreAnd those are just a few that could go in the cottagecore gallery!
Interested in more cottage core ideas? See spring ideas, a styled photo shoot in the forest from a few years back, spring wedding themes that might stimulate ideas, and most importantly, make an appointment to stop by. If you read this blog often, you'll know that we recently posted about winter weddings and now we have one featuring a Bridal Traditions bride! Amanda Perry and Scott Miller were married in November of 2023 at the Barn at Premier Farm in Jonesville NC. Their beautiful outdoor ceremony was captured by Wendy Scott of Shew Ridge Photography. An Outdoor Winter "We do!"These two met in 2016 and Amanda shared that after many, many lunches and lots of fun, Scott proposed on July 4th. The two decided that they wanted to get married on the anniversary of their first date. So on November 12th, 100 friends and family convened on the beautiful property at Premier Farm, complete with auburn light and lovely temperatures, to celebrate and make it official. Deep reds and burgundies completed the simple classic setting. Amanda: "I kept telling everyone if he didn’t cry when I came down to him I would stomp his toe when I got there. But he teared up so his foot was safe. Our photographer caught the moment perfectly." The DressAmanda originally wanted a classic satin fit and flair gown, but decided that they were a bit on the heavy side for her taste. Our consultant worked with her and soon she was trying on the same shape but with other details. Once she tried on her gown, she knew. She loved all the lace and the open back. It looked romantic and she said seeing her companions in tears sealed the deal. Amanda: "The consultant was so easy to get along with. I was all nerves and had no clue what direction I really wanted to go in. She offered to just pull gowns and took all that pressure off me. She was amazing." We're so happy for these newlyweds and wish them all the luck and love in the world.
Ready to be a BT bride? We would love to hear about your vision and help you make the perfect choice. At Bridal Traditions, we sell gowns, veils, and accessories, etc. - as well as the dream of being a bride - directly to our clients, and we've been doing it for more than two decades. It's what we do best, and we love it. But more than anything, we serve brides, which means we're a little obsessed with the pre-wedding bridal experience. We love the smart, strong, excited women who come to us preparing for one of life's big events, so our eyes, ears and minds are trained on every aspect of making your time with us special and helpful. This means that we think like you, we anticipate your needs, and we imagine the experience you want to have. Then we do our best to cater to that vision. Hence, the bridal experience and our new in-house bridal suite. Yes, We have a special Bridal Suite at BTOur Bridal Suite is BRAND NEW and is a deluxe fitting room with seating for seven of your nearest and dearest. Tucked away from the other fitting rooms and busyness of our boutique, brides can try on gowns, confer with their accompanying friends, twirl and make some decisions, and do so in privacy. BT is a bustling place (pardon the pun), so if you want a bit more space and solitude, consider the suite and everything that comes with it. Big mirror views, a large leather sofa, matching loveseat and 2 adorable tufted velvet chairs allow your squad of up to 7 people to be comfortable and attuned to you. And ladies: you do not have to invite that many people! If you would like the time and space that our suite provides, book it and just bring a couple of your favorite committed helpers. Other Benefits to the BRidal SuiteOur regular appointments are 1.5 hours and we ask that brides stick to this, so that all of our guests and clients can have their time as well. For the bridal suite, you get an extra half hour, so you can take a little more time during your 2 hours in order to explore, try on, and discuss options. The bottom line with this bridal suite: more time, more space, and more privacy for you. While there is a fee to secure your spot in this dreamy suite, we think you'll find it worth every penny, especially because this is a time of celebrating the event to come while trying on dream gowns. Make sure to check out our booking page that will have all the pricing details. Invite your most helpful friends and family members, book the suite, and let's get you married in style!
In October of 2023, Brianna Giannotto tied the knot with James (Jimmy) Mahon at Chetola Resort. We're proud that this beauty is a BT Bride, and boy was she a knockout. We are kicking off 2024 by sharing a few great photos from her special day. Brianna Marries JimmyThis handsome pair met on OK Cupid over their fandom of the hockey team, the NY Islanders. While Brianna and Jimmy live in Mooresville, NC, they grew up in New Jersey and New York respectively. They each LOVE to take cruises, love to watch hockey and were thrilled to say "I Do" in front of friends and family in a gorgeous autumn ceremony. Photographer Maryana Tenenika captured some incredible shots of the day, and we especially love the colorful elements in the bride's bouquet and groom's apparel and boutonniere. Brianna made sure to have special moments with her parents and husband to be. The couple had a first look and Jimmy teared up seeing her. She also incorporated her mother's veil into her ensemble - which went perfectly with her gown - and shared a special first dance with her father. She noted later that watching her dad and uncles have "a dance off" was hilarious. The occasion was joyful to say the least. We love all weddings, but there's something beautiful about fall colors mixed with the classic black and white. Burgundy, teal, burnt orange were used and made everything else pop. Brianna: "My favorite part was as we were walking down the aisle after our first kiss, our friends from our hockey meet-up did a “YES” chant. It’s a thing fans of the Islanders do after they score a goal. It was a nice surprise that I loved." The Perfect Fall Wedding GownWe define "perfect" as anything that makes a bride look and feel beautiful. For Brianna, the capped sleeved, flowy and lace dress she chose was as elegant as it was dreamy for her outdoor wedding. Cinched in at the waist, with lace at the bodice and layers of tulle, it looked stunning on her. Our bride didn't come to Bridal Traditions with a lot of "musts," but she knew she liked the A-line silhouette, and she wanted to be able to move easily, eat what she wanted and dance all night. We knew exactly what she wanted! Brianna: "Once I had the veil tried on with my dress I saw myself as a bride and I started crying. Right then I knew it was THE dress." Congratulations to these two and all the best to them in 2024. If you are a bride ready to find your gown and start planning, please set up an appointment with us. We'd love to help you find your dream gown, too.
From all of us at Bridal Traditions, we want to wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
What makes this time different than March 2nd or September 29th? Only the season, really. At our boutique, we feel gratitude for our friends, family and community 12 months of the year. We appreciate our vendors, our community neighbors, and our customers who come to us for the big milestones in life. It goes without saying, but WE LOVE WHAT WE DO and we especially love that we get to serve you all day-in and day-out. Celebrate the year the passed and let's get ready for 2024! With love, The entire BT Team; Kelly, Caylen, Misty, and Karlee While we are all celebrating the holidays and enjoying colder weather, brides are getting married. Yes, in the winter. Winter weddings may not be as common as summer weddings, but they are no less beautiful, fun to plan, and a blast to attend. And let's face it, they are novel. Winter weddings are more memorable for the simple reason that we're usually in holiday mode. A union of two souls during the holidays though, is a pretty special. If you are a bride with time to plan your winter wedding, consider these ideas and let your imagination take it from there! Moody Color Palettes: Winter weddings generally employ darker and richer hues like deep reds, burgundy, navy blue, emerald green, and plum to create an elegant and dramatic atmosphere. Don't be bound by these though. Make sure that your particular passion and palette come into play. Seasonal florals, textures & CandlelightConsider Seasonal Florals. Incorporating winter blooms like amaryllis, anemones, poinsettias, pinecones, and evergreen foliage in bouquets and decorations adds a wintry touch to weddings during this season. Warm Textures, like velvet, faux fur, and woolen elements in attire or decor bring a coziness to the celebration. Think about using these in areas where guests will sit, dine and gather. And of course, remember these elements for your attire! Candlelit Ambiance enhances the romance of the season by illuminating your wedding and reception spaces. We're accustomed to twinkling lights during the winter, so adding candles, lanterns, and fairy lights for a soft, warm glow is a great idea. Unique Food and Drinks during the holidays can offer comfort. Consider serving foods like gourmet soups, hot cocoa bars, mulled wine, or signature winter cocktails to keep guests warm. If your wedding has a theme, the food can be transporting for your guests too. Most will have tired from the usual holiday fare, so mix it up, be inventive and use the seasonal ingredients that are available. SEasonal Outerwear for Winter WeddingsStylish capes, faux fur stoles, or jackets for the bride and bridal party not only add warmth but also make a fashion statement. Unique Venue Choices like cozy cabins, barns, or historic buildings complement the winter theme and make everyone involved or attending feel like they've been whisked away. Embracing the Season by using items like sleds, skis, or snow-inspired decorations to embrace the winter theme and create memorable photo opportunities. If you're a bride looking for ideas, we hope this is a start. And if you are a bride looking for a gown, Bridal Traditions has got you! Make an appointment to come in and start thinking about what you want to wear this time next year.
Sarah Livermore and Austin Myers may have said their vows in Wisconsin, but Wilmington, NC is where they met, and NC is where they stayed. Sarah grew up in Wilmington and when Austin arrived in town - newly stationed as a marine - they met randomly at a coffee shop. He asked Sarah if she wouldn't mind giving him a tour around his new home, and Sarah obliged. After a long day exploring Wilmington together, with Sarah showing him the sites outside of the base, they realized that they never wanted to be apart. In September of this year, they said their I Dos at Foundry 45 in Kewaskum WI. The couple have a daughter together and both love running, spending time with their dogs and friends, and going to the mountains to get away from time to time. The Gown Suits the GirlSome brides come to Bridal Traditions knowing exactly what they want, while others have a vague sense and an eagerness to narrow down the search. What's more important than knowing exactly what type of gown you want is actually knowing who you are, what you like, and then having an open mind. Sarah tried on gowns with us, always knowing that she wanted to wear black. Sarah: "Having black dresses and the ability to dye a dress was so helpful.* The staff at BT helped me view my dress since I didn't see it in black. We grabbed several dresses to overlay onto each other and that gave me the best vision." *Note to brides: Bridal Traditions does not dye wedding gowns. Sarah's gown was a custom order and handled at the factory. Sarah loved the off-the-shoulder sleeves, the covered buttons, intricate lace, fitted body and flared skirt, and the gown looked like it was made for her. On the day, her long hair was braided and adorned, and her jewelry, makeup and florals completed the look. For brides unsure of trying a black wedding gown, we hope you'll consider how beautiful Sarah looks next to the autumnal colors of her florals and along side her gorgeous bridesmaids, decked out in corals and pinks (image below).
If this look suits you, we support you! Just curious about your options? Make an appointment to come see us. Kaylee Brooks and Austin Adams were married at Timber Rivers in Lansing, NC in October of 2023 at what was a gorgeous wedding. The venue was beautifully decorated and the day was a celebration of these two individuals who actually first met when they were only 12 years old. Their friendship from youth ultimately became romantic much later in 2018 when they started dating. Once they became inseparable, they never wanted to be anything else. Timber River Barn Wedding - A ClassicKaylee: "Our wedding was held at the most beautiful mountain barn venue during peak fall leaf season. The weather was a perfect 60 degrees and sunny, and we hosted around 115 guests. My bridesmaids didn't walk down the aisle with bouquets, but instead they carried memorial photos of loved ones that later sat on a custom-made table thanks to Austin’s grandfather." The bride's parents surprised her with a horse and carriage that took her around the ceremony space and then dropped her at the aisle. It was magical. After the ceremony, the newlyweds were able to take a ride in the carriage as husband and wife, that gave them a minute or two to breathe and savor the moment and rush of emotions. We love an autumn wedding, if for no other reason than the color palette can be so exquisite in the right hands. Kaylee and her team nailed it. Lots of evergreen, coral, burgundy and tan were used, the floral greenery and pampas grass were perfect choices, and the venue interior provided texture and warmth galore. Photographers Jill and Amber from Waterhouse Studios captured the setting and decor beautifully. The Wedding Gown for KayleeKaylee originally thought she would wear a gown with long sleeves, maybe a little lace, and no extra layers or long train. She was going to keep it simple and unfussy. She ultimately chose something completely different. She found a sleeveless gown with plenty of lace, lots of movement in the skirt, and a texture she said she fell in love with. With her bouquet, happy smile, and hair in boho curls, she was a stunner. Whether you are a bride who is certain of the designer or style of your gown, or you feel as though you're "going in blind," Bridal Traditions is here to help you achieve your vision or get you unstuck. We love what we do and are proud of the gowns and designers we stock. Like many BT brides, Kaylee found her perfect gown and we couldn't be happier for her. Congrats to the newlyweds! Are you ready to shop for your perfect gown? Book an appointment and let's get started.
Kaylee Davis married Dalton Trivette in September of this year, and she did so in a stunning gown she purchased from us. She looks amazing, especially in the breathtaking local venue: The Chapman Farmstead. North Carolina has so many views, so many vistas and these make perfect spots for wedding and bridal photo shoots. A Chapman Farmstead WeddingKaylee and Dalton had a rustic and timeless wedding, punctuated with a palette of white, olive, green and gold. They said private vows and then Kaylee shared a first look with her bridesmaids and family, including the bride's 91 year old grandmother. Between the prep time and the setting, there was plenty of time for frivolous fun, laughter and hugs. The entire day was special and came together beautifully. The Wedding Gown For An Autumn DayThe sleeveless gown has a deep V on both the front and back, a full skirt and tons of lace. Like the rest of her wedding choices, this one was timeless and classic too. We help brides make choices. It's what we do. Kaylee shared her experience at Bridal Traditions and we're always happy when brides turn to us and we have just what they need, especially after a search! Kaylee: "I honestly went into dress shopping not knowing what I wanted. I went to 5 dress boutiques in Charlotte NC, tried on over 100 dresses, and was so upset I didn’t find one. Then I went to Bridal Traditions one evening in sweat pants and a messy bun, tried on my gown and absolutely fell for it!! It was so wonderful!" We're so happy that Kaylee made her way to us and found what was absolutely supposed to be her gown. She looked so happy in it, in our boutique, for her engagement photos, and on the day itself. The proof is written all over her face! Congratulations to her and to her hubby Dalton. Ready to begin your wedding gown search? Click the button below and let's get started!
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