Trinh Chu, owner of Bella Bridesmaid in Corona del Mar. Isn't she cute?
I am thrilled to share another fabulous Orange County vendor with you. Trinh Chu with Bella Bridesmaid contacted me about the new shop she just opened on Pacific Coast Highway in Corona del Mar. It's a store dedicated almost exclusively for bridal party fashions (although it also carries some laid-back bridal gowns too).
We all know that bridesmaids deserve the best. After all, they are crucial to so many brides: helping to plan the wedding, accompanying you as you search for "the gown", keeping you calm on the big day, etc. In addition, they often plan your bridal shower and bachelorette party.
So, isn't it about time there was a store devoted to them? That's where Bella Bridesmaid comes in, a national franchise started 10 years ago in the bay area. Shops around the country focus on the bridesmaids, displaying unique gowns in a plethora of different fabrics and colors. Trinh's store is relaxing and casual, and the dresses are beautifully displayed.
How did you get started with this idea of owning a bridesmaid dress shop?
I liked the concept, having a casual setting where brides and their maids could explore gown options. I visited the shop in Los Angeles when I was planning my own wedding, and I thought it was great. Since I grew up in Orange County, I saw an opportunity to expand the idea. I've always wanted to own a business, and my husband was very supportive. It took over a year from the initial idea to the doors being open, and I'm really happy about it.
How many lines do you carry?
Right now I carry eight lines, but plan to add 1-2 more over the next few months. Among them there is Lela Rose, Carol Hanna, Two Birds (a dress which can be tied 24 different ways), Saja, Lula Kate, Thread, Alix & Kelly, and Coren Mooore.
Among these designers, clients will encounter an enormous range of colors, designs, fabric types, and prices. There are so many options.
What is the typical price range of the gowns you carry?
Most dresses at the shop are between $195-$500. Typically each bridesmaid pays for her own gown, and designers are really trying to meet the needs of these ladies by offering gowns that truly can be worn after the wedding. Many are perfect for a day at the office or even a night on the town with the right accessories.
In terms of the budget, designers do extend a quantity discount if three or more gowns are ordered from the same designer. That can help.
Are appointments necessary? How soon must gowns be ordered?
I encourage appointments, because I can devote my time and energy to you and your group. At the beginning of the appointment I do a casual intake to determine what type of styles and colors you are looking for. That way I know what kind of designers may be appropriate for you.
Then we let the fun begin when we have your maids try on different gowns and see what works. It is recommended that you order bridesmaids gowns 3-4 months out from the wedding date.
Give me one insider tip from the world of bridal party fashion.
I strongly encourage brides and bridal parties to look at smaller designers. When we look at big bridal magazines, it is easy to think the only designers are the big names with the big, glossy ads. But that is simply not true. There are many designers out there, some of whom deal exclusively in bridesmaids fashions, so I would certainly consider those lines as well.
What was your wedding like?
I was married a little over a year ago in Santa Barbara. We wanted a mini destination wedding. We had about 110 guests, and I had six bridesmaids. We had a Catholic wedding with the reception at the Canary Hotel. My colors were sea foam with accents of gold.
Anything else you'd like to add?
I want to encourage brides and bridesmaids to know that they have a lot of options. Bridal parties do no have to compromise on quality and fit of their gowns. They can look and feel comfortable and also have a cohesiveness as a group which is often important to the bride.
Details
Bella Bridesmaid in open Tuesday - Friday 11am-7pm and Saturdays 10am-6pm. If you need a Sunday appointment, Trinh may be able to arrange it.
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