I went into wedding dress shopping armed against raised eyebrows and disapproving glances. I’ve never been one to strictly follow tradition, and I wanted a pale green gown.
These photos were the inspiration in my search.
After my experiences at David's Bridal with a friend who also wanted a non-white dress, I expected the worst. Below are the observations I made at bridal salons around town on my quest to find a green wedding gown and complementary purple bridesmaid dresses.
502-244-9493
309 Evergreen Road
The staff listened to what I wanted and were helpful. While they didn't have what I was looking for, they showed me their color charts to see if they could order a suitable dress. They also let my sister try on some pretty bridesmaid dresses even though they knew we were not looking to purchase any that day. All the consultants were willing to assist without being pushy.
The Bridal Suite of Louisville
502-244-2909
9948 Linn Station Road
The consultants didn't hesitate when they found out what I wanted. They pulled their only green dress, showed me their color charts, and allowed my mother and sister to sift through the bridesmaid dresses. I tried on a dyeable dress and the green one, and they had me try on hair accessories to complete “the look." The main consultant even found a gorgeous purple bridesmaid dress that perfectly complemented the green wedding dress. Their job is to sell their products, and that is evident with a bit of reflection. However, they are never rude, and their primary concern is the customer's happiness and needs. I returned later for the green dress.
502-810-9240
4216 Outer Loop
Despite this building's blocky exterior, the dresses inside are just as beautiful as anywhere else. While initially taken aback at the idea of a green dress, the consultant we spoke with was a no-nonsense, truthful person with some useful tips. They also carry their own line, which could help on a budget. Regiss is actually local to Kentucky, with a store in Glasgow and a boutique in Bowling Green and Owensboro.
502-895-4627
159 Chenoweth Lane
The consultant went out of her way to provide as much information as possible. She was like a kind, personable encyclopedia on designers, fabrics, and necklines. She understood that not every bride fit into the traditional mold, and she patiently answered the multitude of questions we had. Like the consultant at the Bridal Suite, she was upselling her product in the politest way possible: simply by informing the customer of all the options, sharing stories, and listening.
I visited these bridal salons on a weekday without an appointment. Not that it should greatly affect their customer service, but it would be wise to check their policy on appointments if you are planning on a weekend visit.
Though it is not locally owned, the consultants at Bridal Warehouse were also pleasant (and they had a green wedding dress!). No one gave me personally any cause to complain at David's, but make sure you have an appointment if you plan on trying dresses on!
Feel free to share your experiences, whether at different salons or the same ones, in the comments below!
Photos courtesy of: Sher's Bridal and Formal Wear, Green Wedding Consortium/Jorma Bridal, Wedding Inspirasi/Reem Acra Bridal
