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If you are in the shopping mood, and if you aren't you should get cracking, don't forget the bride-to-be in your life this season. We have a wide selection of gifts year round, but this holiday season might be the perfect time to choose a personal gift for the bride whose planning a 2025 wedding. Here's just a sampling of ideas! Gifting a BRide with AccessoriesFrom garters to hair clips, we have whimsical gifts that you can give to let the bride know that you're excited for her and that you're looking forward to getting your invitiation (wink, wink)! Buy the BRide her Jewelry as a GiftDon't be afraid to ask the bride if she's chosen her "on the day" jewelry. Sometimes brides want to wear something from a family member during their vows, but we have options as well. And what bride doesn't need earrings, necklaces and charming bracelets for the rehearsal dinner, to wear on her honeymoon, or just as a fun gifts for every day? We have gorgeous pieces and these won't break your budget. Bridal Attire (Beyond the Gown) as a GiftDressing gowns for brides and bridesmaids have been so popular for a while now and they are still holding court. What's so great about a "Mrs" gown is that you can wear it long after the honeymoon is over. Are you in your Bride Era? We've got you. And of course, we have denim, t-shirts, ball caps and other fun items to give your bride. As the wedding approaches, brides aren't always thinking beyond the planning, the day, the honeymoon, etc. They may not have thought about preserving their gown for the future. So one last idea for gift-givers is to give them just that. Wedding Gown Preservation Co. will make sure that your gown is cleaned and stored after its big debut. We've announced our holiday hours, so come see us if you're shopping for fun accessories, jewelry, garments and more for the bride-to-be in your life.
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Men often think about the ring and the girl. And not in that order. You fall in love, and after the staged proposal, the yeses and selfies, the calls parents to celebrate, the planning begins. Whether you buy or rent your suit or tux, Bridal Traditions wants you to have the "extras" you'll need to show up ready and in style. Ties for Weddings, Events & Just Plain StyleIf we could say anything to you guys as you shop, it would be come with a theme or plan for yourself and groomsmen in coordination with your intended spouse, of course.... OR come with an open mind and be ready to chat us up! We've got you. Plan to have fun. We make the experience worth it and we have lots of options. Our team loves to mix and match with ties, socks, vests and bridesmaids accessories, so you should ask us for ideas within your budget and theme. We've got you on what works, what's whimsical, what's a big ABSOLUTLEY NOT, and what is an absolute classic. We're great listeners and we do this for a living y'all, so speak up. Vests, Suspenders & Belts for MenBelt or suspenders?? Your call, but we carry both, so you can decide what works best and purchase accordingly. Above: Shirts and more shirts. Ask us about what to wear that suits you best. And below, we have vests to go with whatever suit you choose and to go with any theme, holiday or season. If you haven't thought about adding a vest: DO! A vest can take you from "nice looking groom" to "is that a member of the royal family" in a flash. Whether it's the moment you say "yes" to your partner, or the moment you say yes to an extra goodie that you needed for an event, we have you guys covered.
When we say "off the rack" we mean Glamour that is Ready To Go. We are not offering the "wha-whaaaaaa" gowns that no one wants. These gowns are new arrivals, and they cannot be ordered, so when they are gone, sweethearts: We. Are. Done. Here's the fun bit: they are priced between: $279-$756. These dresses are gorgeous and each one is a deal. Long Sleeve gowns Off-the-RackSometimes you want a sleeve because of the venue, the weather, your favorite style of dress or theme. Consider though that sleeves do not just cover up or protect brides from the elements. Sleeves add so much style. Short Sleeve Wedding Gowns: Ready to GoPerfect for spring and summer weddings, these off the shoulder looks are a mix of modern and timeless. You cannot go wrong if your plan is to get married in the cooler months, because you can always add a shawl, an elegant coat, muff, or gloves. Halter, Strappy & Strapless Wedding GownsSee the gown above and below, (and we'll pause to let you gasp), and tell us that you don't see shades of Marilyn Monroe. This one says old Hollywood glam and Southern Garden party. A halter is just one option. Structured silhouettes, lovely draping fabric, flowy skirts and loads of corset details: all of these gowns are a statement. Right now, these prêt-à-porter looks, or if you are a Southern girl "Ready to wear" gowns, are in our shop. Again, there are limited quantities and once they are gone, they're gone. See you soon!
The word "failure" is strong, so let's back away from that negativity and actually discuss tips and tricks to help you avoid a wedding fail should you be getting married during the cooler months. What Could Wrong with a Fall Wedding?Some of these ... goofs (these oversights, shall we say)... will feel obvious, but you have to remember that when you are planning a wedding, you have more than a few decisions to make. Brides sometimes feel "done" once they have a venue, a caterer, a gown and a date. That date though may fall between mid September and late March, meaning you may have even more to decide and execute. Consider the weather, your location, the guests, what the venue and other vendors can provide for seasonal weddings and, of course, don't forget your budget. So let's talk fails and tips to avoid! Weather Surprises Fail: Being unprepared for unpredictable weather (like rain, cold, or wind) can make an outdoor ceremony uncomfortable for guests. Tip: Check the forecast regularly and have a contingency plan, like having tents or covered spaces, to keep everyone dry and warm. Stock up on umbrellas and fun blankets, and have heaters ready for outdoor areas. A good wedding planner will help you navigate this one, and most brides know that cooler temps will affect lots of decisions. Overlooking Daylight Changes Fail: Not accounting for shorter days in the autumn can lead to missing out on natural light for photos or to having a too-dark ceremony. Tip: Adjust your timeline to include earlier photography sessions and ceremonies, ideally ending by sunset. This will maximize daylight and keep guests comfortable before temperatures drop. Not Considering Allergy Season Fail: Forgetting that fall brings seasonal allergies, especially with outdoor elements like leaves and hay bales, can create all manor of discomfort for the guests and yourselves. Tip: Be considerate of allergies by providing non-floral centerpieces or using hypoallergenic flowers. Unstable Ground and Inappropriate Footwear Fail: Brides, bridesmaids, and guests sinking into muddy grass or slipping on wet leaves is a thing, believe us, and it's both embarrassing and hazardous. Tip: Recommend appropriate footwear in invitations, like block heels or boots, and provide alternate shoes for the bridal party. Consider adding outdoor mats or carpets for safe, stable footing. Forgetting Bug Control Fail: Bugs are often still active in early fall, especially in warm areas. And don't we all just want to be swatting bugs instead of wiping tears of joy?? Tip: Use citronella candles, bug spray stations, or professional pest control to keep insects at bay. You may want to opt for sprays with subtle scents to avoid clashing with other decor elements. Choosing Out-of-Season Flowers Fail: Some couples envision specific flowers that aren’t in season in the autumn or winter and then they spend big bucks on flower substitutions or to have the out of season flowers brought in. Tip: Embrace seasonal blooms like dahlias, chrysanthemums, and sunflowers, which will look beautiful and be more budget-friendly. Consult with a florist to find out which options will be freshest. Skipping Rain and Cold Protections for Décor Fail: Certain decorations, like paper or fabric, don’t hold up well in damp conditions, and they can end up soggy or ruined. Tip: Choose weatherproof materials like wood, metal, or waterproof fabrics for outdoor decor. Avoid delicate items, or have a plan to quickly bring them indoors if the weather changes. Not Having a Backup Indoor Reception Plan Fail: Counting on perfect weather for an outdoor reception can be risky, especially in fall when rain is common. Tip: Even if your heart is set on an outdoor reception, reserve an indoor backup space or tent just in case. Some venues offer indoor-outdoor options that provide flexibility. Ignoring Muddy Grounds for Photos Fail: A muddy venue can ruin wedding attire and footwear, making photos challenging. Tip: Plan alternate locations for photos and be prepared with a cleanup kit that includes stain remover, a towel, and extra shoes. Overlooking Vendor Availability Fail: Fall is a peak season for events and festivals, so vendors can be fully booked or charge premium rates. Tip: Book vendors well in advance to secure your first choice, and have a list of backups for essentials like catering and photography. Consider weekdays or less-popular dates to increase availability. Not Personalizing Favors and Menus for Fall Fail: Choosing summer-themed favors or a light, cold menu may feel out of place. Tip: Customize your favors and menu to match the season. Consider warm desserts, spiced cocktails, or cozy favors like candles or mini-pumpkin decorations that guests can enjoy during the colder months. Miscalculating Cold Weather with Wedding Attire Fail: Brides and bridesmaids sometimes freeze in light dresses or without layers, and this often makes photo sessions challenging. You are there to get the shots of a lifetime, but everyone is uncomfortable. Tip: Layer with style by adding capes, shawls, or jackets to wedding attire. If the groom and groomsmen wear heavier suits, they’ll feel more comfortable, too. Neglecting the Power of Seasonal Décor Fail: Trying to create a bright, spring-like atmosphere in fall can feel out of sync and may clash with the setting. Tip: Embrace fall’s warm colors and natural elements like pumpkins, autumn leaves, and rustic woods. Seasonal decor will feel harmonious and create a timeless, festive look. Forgetting the Busy Holiday Calendar Fail: Planning a wedding close to a major fall holiday (like Thanksgiving or Halloween) can reduce guest attendance or cause issues with vendor availability. Tip: Be mindful of holiday schedules, and send invitations early to give guests plenty of time to plan and make arrangements. The good news is that you have options and we at BT have a staff that can help you consider all of the possibilities when it comes to your wardrobe and style.
We've been giving the guys their fair share of info over the last couple of months, and we don't plan to stop. Gentlemen, groomsmen, grooms and guys of all shapes, sizes and style preferences need a good suit - either for The Big Event or for life itself. Pros of Purchasing Your SuitYou have complete ownership You can wear a well-made suit again and again for future events, making it a versatile addition to your wardrobe. Consider this a wardrobe investment! Long-Term Value For an event, men can either rent or buy. While the initial cost is higher when you purchase, buying a suit can be more economical over time if you plan to attend multiple formal events in the future. The Fit is Tailored to you & Personalized When you buy a suit, it can be tailored to your body, ensuring a perfect fit. This suit belongs to YOU! Make it look like it's your and only yours. You have more control over fabric, design, and accessories, allowing for a look that is uniquely yours. To Consider Before Buying a SuitSo you've headed to purchase a suit. What do you need to focus on the most? The Fit This is the most critical factor. Ensure the suit matches your body type, whether that’s slim, regular, or athletic. A well-fitted suit enhances your shape, so opting for tailored or custom-fitted suits is often worth the investment. Key fit areas are the shoulders, chest, waist, and trouser length. Fabric Quality Quality fabric impacts the suit's comfort, appearance, and longevity. Wool is a classic choice for its versatility and breathability, while linen and cotton work well for summer. Look for high-quality, durable materials that match your climate and lifestyle, as they’ll offer a better return on investment over time. Color & Versatility Consider a color that fits multiple occasions. Navy, charcoal gray, and medium gray are versatile and suitable for both formal and semi-formal events. Since this is an investment, you want to get some use out of it, right? For a first or foundational suit, stick to these classic shades, which pair easily with a range of shirt and tie colors. Construction & Details The suit’s construction affects its durability and fit. Pay attention to details like lapel width (classic lapels age better), button style, and pocket type, as these define the suit's style and functionality. Purpose & Frequency of Use Think about when and how often you’ll wear the suit. If it's for daily professional wear, prioritize durability and a classic style. For special occasions, you might opt for a more distinctive design or higher-end fabric. Depending on the event that is coming up, your wedding for instance, or the way you plan to wear your suit afterward - job interviews, holiday parties, special occasions - you may want to consider how well you can pair your suit to what your date is wearing, where you live (again, the climate), the seasons, and how you intend to use this purchase. No one likes buyer's remorse, so be ready when you go to shop! Buying a Suit for your Life & LocaleAnd don't forget about where you live, guys! What are the regional style norms? Certain regions may favor a more relaxed or formal look. Coastal areas often lean toward casual, light-colored suits, while urban centers may adhere more to traditional colors and conservative cuts. And how are the seasons where you live? There's a thing called seasonal variability, which means that if you live somewhere with extreme seasonal changes, it may be wise to invest in multiple suits for different times of the year—a lighter one for summer and a heavier one for winter. After you've considered the seasons in your region, consider the season of life that you're entering. It may be time to invest in a suit that will make you shine, and take you anywhere.
Color is Back, or should we say, BETTER?!Not only are the color options for bridesmaids vast (we have around 70 colors at Bridal Traditions), they are inclusive. Traditional colors, muted tones, and classics are always popular and available for bridesmaids. For the more adventurous or less conventional bride, there are also plenty of color ways to choose from in this modern era. We've got the rainbow PLUS, you might say. Let your imagination rule. New Color CombinationsRemember when the rules started changing and brides actively invited bridesmaids to choose their own style of gown? As long as the theme or palette was intact, the world was your oyster. It felt like a revelation, didn't it?! Suddenly, the line up of besties by the bride's side on her big day were part of a vibe or a theme, but each showcased a bit of individuality. These days, we see brides combining more than one or two colors for their bridesmaids gowns, adding more texture and interest. They are telling a story of their personality, their relationship, or just expressing their point of view. The number of combinations is endless, so why not?! Can't you say: "spring is my favorite season" or "bohemian vibes" or "rustic elegance" in so many different ways? Yes, you can. Having a mix of colors in your bridesmaids' gowns or groomsmen's accessories is a genius way of pulling off your theme or love story. Color Matches - Online vs In-PersonWe don't like to nag or preach, but the stories of disappointment are a plenty. Wedding Parties & Party-goers: this is just a friendly reminder that when you order your attire from an online purveyor, usually based on seeing a jpeg, you cannot be sure about the color in real life. What looks rusty online may look like peach when you're unpacking it. Greens are teals or royal. Reds run from burgundy to pink. When you shop in store, you can see the gowns next to each other, make smart choices, then check out accessories and sort out the men's look as well. Are you going to be present on your wedding day? Of course. Be present as you choose the elements, and this starts with attire. The Groom & Groomsmen Can Mix it up, Too!Some good news! The guys are benefitting from these new dressing rules, new combinations, and fresh colors as well. Once the theme and color palette are up for discussion, Katy bar the door, as they say. Between choices of suit or tux cut, jacket style, vest or no vest, pocket squares, ties, socks, and other touches, the groom and his groomsmen can make their "wedding day looks" equally inventive and coordinated. Many of our 3 piece suits are not "nested," which means that you have options and choices to add, should you choose. If you have an idea, then explore it with our team. Links to ExploreYes, we've thought about this and have more info to share.
> Wondering about whether to rent or buy your suit or tux? We've got you. > Want to know more about how we handle menswear ordering and our connection to Jim's Formal Wear? Here you go! > Shopping in store vs. Online? Right here. And visit our blog to see new styles of wedding gowns, suits, tuxes, bridesmaids' apparel and accessories to tie a bow around any look. Hello from Bridal Traditions' trusty Asheville-based writer, Val. I have been working with - and in awe of - Kelly Shumate for nearly eight years. She's not just a client and collaborator, she's such an ally, a massive friend, and a provider of inspiration and belly laughs. She and I discussed a blog about the recent aftermath of Hurricane Helene, and I was happy to oblige with a bit from our part of the world. Places to Give & Key ResourcesConsider these links to inform and help you choose where to give, if you wish. Remember to refresh the page often so you don’t miss updates. Resources FEMA relief form Asheville Relief Citizen Times Guide for help page Mom’s Rising help link NC Resources Readync.gov NC power outages NC Traffic and Road Conditions Tennessee SmartWay Road Conditions Kentucky Road Conditions Places to Give Beloved Asheville Bounty & Soul Manna FoodBank ABCCM (Asheville Buncombe County Christian Ministries) You can also love from afar! Click the image below to see places to shop and support area artists, restaurants and other businesses that make Asheville and this region so special. Of course, we will recover.
Many of us are avid campers, travelers, hikers, cyclists, rock climbers, paddlers and lovers of the mountain life. We are hardy, hearty, and stubborn. And we are hopeful. Thank you for the love, support and hugs from Wilkes County to WNC. We feel them and we love you back. Promise to come visit when things come back to life. Dear Groom & Groomsmen,Your wedding, fellas, is a big day to say the least. The wedding industry sells it as the bride's day, but truthfully, it's YOUR DAY, too. You got the girl. You won! So, you want to look amazing at the end of the aisle; you want to coordinate with the theme, and with the season, and with your wife-to-be. None of this is complicated, and Bridal Traditions attends to the men with as much care as we do our brides and their gorgeous bridesmaids. While we do not stock rentals (can you imagine the inventory??), we have Jim's Formal Wear - our partner for nearly 20 years - as our ally. JFW has a huge inventory, and they can provide the right style, the right fabric, and the perfect cut for men on their big day. Before you rent or buy, our team suggests that you consider these factors:
Tux Renting pros & ConsSo, let's break it down! Renting a Tux: Pro: Cost-Effective (Short Term) Renting is generally cheaper upfront than buying, especially if you only need the outfit for the wedding and don’t plan to wear it often. Con: No Ownership After the event, you return it, leaving you with no fancy attire for future formal occasions Pro: Convenience Rentals usually come as a complete package (jacket, pants, shirt, tie, etc.), and many rental services include minor alterations, cleaning, and fitting. With Jim's Formal Wear, we have this well in hand at Bridal Traditions. Con: Rental Deadlines: You have to return the suit by a specific date, which might add stress during an already busy time. If you are organized, it's not an issue. Pro: Variety Men can choose from a variety of styles they might not typically purchase and choose a look that matches the event theme. Con: Limited Customization: Rental suits may not fit as perfectly as a tailored suit. While minor adjustments are possible, the fit won’t be as personalized. Pro: Less Commitment There is no need to worry about future wear or storing it in your closet. Con: Wear and Tear Rental items may show signs of previous use, like minor stains or fraying, but Jim's Formal Wear takes superb care of their garments. Tuxedo Buying pros & ConsBuying a Tux: Pro: Long-Term Value While the initial cost is higher, buying a suit or tux can be more economical over time if you plan to attend multiple formal events. Con: High Initial Cost Buying a suit, especially a high-quality or designer one, requires a larger upfront investment. Again, consider if you are going to need this garment more than 4-5 times per decade. Pro: Tailored Fit When you buy a suit or tuxedo, it can be custom-tailored to your body, ensuring a perfect fit. Con: Maintenance You are responsible for dry cleaning, storing, and maintaining the suit in good condition. Pro: Personalization You have more control over fabric, design, and accessories, allowing for a look that is uniquely yours. Con: Style Changes: Fashion trends evolve, so a suit bought today may feel outdated in a few years, unless you invest in a classic design. Pro: Ownership: You can wear it again and again for future events, making it a versatile addition to your wardrobe or a wardrobe investment. Con: Limited Use If you don’t attend formal events often, the suit may end up sitting unused in your closet, which can feel like a waste of money. Questions? We've got you. Give us a call, check out our renting and buying options, or consider if you need a wedding party consult. We're here for you!
We will keep this short - pardon the pun. Homecoming season is in full-swing and Bridal Traditions still has a selection of gowns to make your homecoming dreams come true. Girls are wearing all sorts of glitz and glam, in various lengths and styles, but we wanted to showcase a few of this year's shorter gowns. These tell a story, and they are so fun. Ladies, hurry in to see us before your event comes and goes. Not going to homecoming, but looking for a party dress? Consider that these dresses are not a one-trick pony. They can be worn for multiple occasions! Hurry to us to shop for your Homecoming gown or party attire asap! The season is racing passed.
You know we are here to help with the entire bridal dress experience, but we take exceptional care of the bridesmaids as well. So let us be direct and clear: we WANT you to come IN STORE when it's time to get your dress. Read on to know why! Customer Service Unlike online orders where you wait and hope that they can get everything right, get the dress to you on time, that it fits, etc, we are with you every step of the way. We believe in our community and our customers, and want to take the time to make sure you know what you're getting and what to expect. In short, you get a human. Knowledge and Expertise We know our product and dress lines backwards and forwards, soup to nuts! We understand how dresses are made, cut, altered, will drape or fit the body, and how to help make sure you're getting exactly what you want. You won't get that with online ordering, even when there is a number for you to call when something goes wrong. Let us be your guides! Try on the dresses You get to try on the dresses when you come to BT, and then you can truly see the details and colors of the dresses, get a sense of the fit, and so on. Ask any graphic designer or tailor and they will tell you that a shade of blue in online media, compared with the same shade of blue in print, next to the same shade of blue in person will appear to the eye as 3 different colors. They will look similar, but are not the same. Online, colors can get distorted, so we want you to know exactly what you're getting. You can see colors, touch fabrics, look at combinations, and actually enjoy the process. Measurements and Alterations As already mentioned, we are your dress gurus. Our team knows how to measure you accurately for these types of dresses. We can explain the alterations you'll need and suggest viable and trusted seamstresses who can help, if need be. Choosing undergarments This one is pretty self-explanatory, but it's important. We know, based on the style of dress, what you will need to wear under your dress in order to be comfortable, but also wedding day ready and sleek. You may think you have the right undergarments, but please ask us what our recommendations would be based on your dress choice. Inspections upon arrival When your dress arrives, we inspect it to make sure it is in pristine shape and that the measurements are correct. If they aren't, we catch it in time and get it fixed before the bride even knows about it. And finally, we get your gown big day ready for you!
Once your gown arrives, and we ensure that everything is correct, we press your dress so it's ready to hang until you put it on. We have wedding venue owners who tell us that often, bridesmaids wait to press their gowns and end up needing them steamed on the day, sometimes at the venue. If you've never been a bridesmaid, there is A LOT going on the day of a wedding, and this includes your hair and makeup. Steam from a dress being pressed is not the best for those trying to get you glammed up, and it sets back your timeline for the day. Who needs the stress? Ladies: you've got this, and Bridal Traditions has got you. Skip the online ordering, and see us when shopping for your bridesmaids dresses. Whatever you think you are getting in convenience from an online purveyor will be far outweighed by what you get with a support team around you! |
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