I cannot describe how wonderful Laura, the owner of BRIDE, was in making such a stressful decision completely painless!
I went into BRIDE with a friend on a walk-in Wednesday last spring, because even scheduling an appointment seemed too intimidating for me to try on dresses for the first time. I had never really pictured myself as a bride, but knew I wanted something unique for my intimate, fall wedding. I wanted something I could wear again, with alterations possibly, and wasn't set on a white gown. Laura set aside things for me as I went through what I thought I should try on with my friend's help. She was very considerate of the fact that I was nervous (read: awkward) and didn't know exactly what style I should go for. There was the PERFECT selection in her shop without being overwhelming. A little bit of everything for the distinctive, non-traditional bride - full lace sleeves/dresses, open backs, separates, etc. - by awesome designers that can't be found anywhere else in Kansas City. If you're looking for a ball gown, I will recommend you don't start here. But if you've spent any time on her website/instagram/window shopping, that should be pretty obvious to you already.
Laura made me feel SO comfortable trying on dresses. She offered us champagne or water and never made me feel rushed to start trying things on (or to wrap up the night after I repeat tried on dresses due to indecisiveness). Laura provided her thoughtful opinions, but never tried to convince me that one dress was right for me or not. She asked me questions about my vision for the day, my man, etc., and it was easy to tell with her that she was genuinely interested. I walked out that first day with some info about my favorite dress, but not purchasing anything. My family is from out of town, so I went to Minneapolis to try on dresses with my mother at three different boutiques there. While I had a few nice experiences, none compared to BRIDE. Most were more sales-y or the selection was too traditional for my taste.
Ultimately, I came back to BRIDE to try on my favorite Alexandra Grecco dress again. I placed my order that day and had several questions after that Laura always answered quickly by email (providing me with info from the designer, details on a recommended place for alterations, etc). She went above and beyond to make sure I have everything I could possibly need (even sent me links to shoes she thought would look good with my gown when I didn't know where to start there!). While I didn't purchase any accessories from BRIDE, there's a great selection in the shop. The jewelry tempts me even for non-bridal events! I might even be back in for other special occasions. On a side note, while I didn't have a flower girl, it did appear there were also dresses in the shop for this need.
My gown arrived on schedule and had few alterations in order to be ready to wear. I had countless compliments on my unique dress, with everyone saying how ME it was. I couldn't have asked for anything better and truly felt like myself - comfortable, pretty, and not like a bride!
I really can't recommend BRIDE enough. TLDR: If you are searching for a wedding dress and want unique, stand-out gowns, at really reasonable price points, AND phenomenal, personal customer service.... this is the place to go. read more