You can find the two most important aspects of the dress search at Carine’s Bridal Atelier: the absolutely perfect dress, and a wonderful experience with talented and lovely fashion experts. Whether you are on a budget, want a certain silhouette, or have your eye on a top designer, Carine can really help you find that dress that makes you feel like you are floating on your wedding day.
Carine’s Bridal Atelier is always one step ahead of the game, and not only bring new designers to the boutique but also offer a variety of trunk shows throughout the year. Read more from Carine herself!
When a bride walks into your salon with a general idea of what she is looking for, how to you work with her and what do you ask to help her find the perfect dress?
We make sure to have the bride describe her venue as well as her vision for the dress. We discuss her favorite silhouettes, fabrics and embellishments. Next, we show her a variety of styles and designers that suit her look and budget, as well as her body. No matter which style a bride prefers, we always want her to feel comfortable and confident in her gown.
Are you able to work with a bride on a budget?
We are definitely able to work with brides on a budget. I have a few tips for brides on a budget. One great way for a bride to save money but get the designer gown of her dreams is to purchase during a trunk show. Our store offers a 12% discount for the first two days of the trunk show and a 10% discount for the final day of the show. We are actually having a Rivini trunk show May 20th-22nd.
Another way to save money is to purchase a sample gown. This means you would be purchasing a gown directly from our floor rather than custom ordering a gown. These gowns are typically discounted 30-75% off of their original price.
In what ways does your bridal salon stand out from others in the DC metro area?
I think my store stands out from others in the D.C. area because we have a fashion forward flair. We offer many of the high end bridal lines exclusively, including Monique Lhuillier, Carolina Herrera, and Angel Sanchez.
What bridal fashions do you think will be very popular in the summer and early fall?
Textured skirts were all over the Spring 2011 bridal runways and so were pops of color, especially pastel pinks and blues. Floral motifs were included in many of the skirts, as Monique Lhuillier said that she was “bringing the garden party indoors”. Soft leaves and flower petals were brought to life, in the bridal collections, through organza and tulle. Brides can expect to see those trends in the store by Fall.
Are there any new lines or designers that you will be bringing to your salon in the near future? Are there any new and upcoming designers that our readers should keep an eye out for?
We are very excited about exclusively offering the legendary Oscar de la Renta and the equally fabulous Marchesa to the store. They will be in the store this coming Fall.
As if it could get any better!!! Be sure to check out the Rivini trunk show and keep an eye out for some fabulous Oscar de la Renta and Marchesa dresses this fall.
