BRIDAL MARKET

Its almost October and that means its time for bridal market.  What's trending for 2020, you ask?  Taking a queue from Meghan Markle, the clean, minimalist long sleeve is definitely at the top of the list.  And, for the bride who doesn't want the traditional gown- jumpsuits, pants and a blouse and satin cargo pants will be donning the runways.  Everything is lighter, from crinolines to corsets to embroidery, as brides don't want to be weighted by their bridal attire.  Feathers, whimsical bustles, headbands instead of veils and the decline of the "naked dress" giving way to a more covered up look, without being too modest are all en vouge.  Other trends include big, sheer sleeves, two piece dresses and the little white dress for your party.  With all these choices, it will be easy for every bride to find her style.  
Now that you know what to shop for, lets talk about where to shop in the Philadelphia area for some of the top designers.  I have chosen four salons, two on the Main Line and two in Center City. Plus I am going to tell you about a concept store in the city that may be right up your alley. Lets start with shopping on the Main Line of Philadelphia, for the more traditional, upscale bride.  There are other shops, I have been to them all with my clients over the years.  However, for the ultimate shopping experience and the most choices, these two fit the bill.

Elizabeth Johns is in Ardmore, in the Shops at Suburban Square.  When you walk into the bright and beautiful surroundings of this salon, you will be instantly greeted for your appointment.  The selection here includes dresses for the bride, bridesmaids, moms and flower girls.  Some of the top designers are featured here.  For the bride, I have chosen six designers, but there are more.  These designers are timeless, enduring and always beautiful. From top left and clockwise- Reem Acra, Inbal Dror, Anne Barge, Amsale, Mira Zwillinger and Carolina Herrara.  

Bridesmaids selections include, Elizabeth Johns exclusives, Dessy and Amsale.  The newest trends and a rainbow of colors will make shopping for your maids a piece of cake.  Evening attire, perfect for the moms includes Frascara, John Paul Ataker,Wayne Clark Janique and Teresa Ripoli.  I have seen, first hand how attentive they are and how beautiful and plentiful their selection is.  so, make your appointment today.
Elizabeth Johns
46 St James Place
Ardmore, Pa 19003
610-649-8100 
  
                                                                                  Travel down Lancaster Avenue into Chester County and you will find Van Cleve Wedding Pavilion.  Think PINK when you walk into this salon.  Its a girly dream come true.  From the pink paint, to the crystal chandeliers to the flower wall, not to mention all the gorgeous dresses.  The bridal team here is top notch and very savvy.  And, Deborah, the owner is a fixture on the Main Line.  Some of the bridal designers featured here, From top left clockwise-  are Hayley Paige, Ysa Makino, Sareh Nouri, Pronovias, Stephen Yearick and Romona Keveza.  Bridesmaids include Hayley Paige, Watters and Jenny Yoo.  And, for those special moms selections include Rina di Montella, Rene Ruiz and Alex Teih.  While you are here, you can also shop for veils, jewelry and the perfect dress for the littlest of your wedding party.  I just know this will be a wonderful bridal experience for you.  So, make your appointment soon.  
Wedding Pavilion
1604 E. Lancaster Avenue
Paoli, Pa 19301
610-647-5055


If you are a city girl, these next two salons are perfect!  The Philadelphia Bridal Company is a tiny boutique in Center City.  If you are interested in Tara Keely or Atelier Pronovias, this is the place for you.  Ashley keeps things very limited, so that she can provide the best service to a specific bride. You are modern, think outside the box and have a flair for fashion.  There are no traditional gowns here.  You must have at least a $2000 budget to make an appointment.  Once there, you will have a very personal experience.  You can even feel free to bring some white wine or champagne to celebrate!  Ashley and her team are so much fun.  It will be like buying your gown in your own living room.   This salon is by appointment only. So, make yours today.                                                        

Philadelphia Bridal Company
1218 Spruce Street
Philadelphia, Pa 19107
267-239-5443

The Wedding Factor is in the funky, fun part of the city.  Located on south Street in Head House Square, this upscale salon caters to the modern bride.  If you are looking for couture bridal, this is the place.  Designers here include Elizabeth Fillmore, Yolancris, Justin Alexander, and the exclusive carrier of Berta Bridal.  They also carry Stella York and Stella York Plus Size.  Just look at these gowns!  On the cutting edge of bridal.  Make your appointment here.

The Wedding Factor
125 South Street
Philadelphia, Pa 19147
267-861-0409

I told you at the beginning of this that I was going to tell you about another concept salon.  Lovely Bride is a new idea in bridal.  For the bride who has vision, or at least an idea of what she wants, this salon is perfect.  The concept for this idea started with the idea that bridal shopping could be "cool".  This "chain" of salons across the country has a unique process for selecting your gown.  Go on the web site and select the type of dresses you like and want to try on.  Add them to your wishlist.  Then, make an appointment to go try on.  The staff will be ready for you with your choices and others that may fit your style.  How cool is that!  There is nothing stuffy or judgmental here.  Just fun and a relaxed atmosphere.  The designers- Watters, Jenny Yoo and more from BHLDN.  I love this idea.   You will love the experience.  
Lovely Bride
237 Market Street
Philadelphia, Pa 19106
215-627-1800


Now, before I go, here are some general tips for wedding gown shopping.  

1. Make and appointment.  Most salons require it and you will get much more personal service.

2. Wear the proper undergarments.  Please wear panties and not a thong.   If you have a strapless bra- great.  And, no flashy colors or crazy prints.

3. Do your hair and make up.  You want to get a picture of what you will look like and going shopping looking a mess won't help.

4. DO NOT take a lot of people.  Most salons are not equipped for large groups and too many opinions are confusing.  Most salons do not allow anyone to pull gowns without the help of a salesperson.  So, the bigger the group, the harder it is for the staff to manage the crowd.

5. Remember whose wedding this is!!!  Everyone has a style- but, this is YOUR DAY.  Don't listen to anyone who says they don't like the dress.  If you feel like a bride- ITS YOUR DAY!!!  

Finally, don't buy a wedding on line.  Gowns that are advertised on line from anonymous sites for crazy low prices are not for real.  You will be sorry.  Go to a reputable salon where you can see the dress and have all the services of a salon experience.  HAPPY SHOPPING!!