Holiday Hours

Here is a reminder of September's Bride's Open Shopping Hours over the holiday season:

December 24 :: 11 am - 3 pm

December 25 :: Closed - Merry Christmas!

December 27 :: 10 am - 3 pm (closing early so that we may attend Megan's wedding!)

January 1 :: Closed - Happy New Year!

Also, please remember that beginning on Saturday, January 3, our upstairs fitting area will be open By Appointment Only on Saturdays. Please call 616-355-1433 for an appointment!

We wish you many blessings during this wonderful season; may God bless us, every one!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

A new photo of "Tami"

About two months ago, I introduced a new Lila Couture gown called "Rachel", which is currently in the store. I also mentioned that the designer had named one of the gowns in her 2009 collection "Tami". I finally received a photo of that gown today! The gown itself should be in the store within the next month.



As you can see, it is a slightly-modified mermaid/trumpet style. The lace layers are similiar to the "Rachel" gown, but the bodice and mid-section is purely lace; simpler than the "Rachel".

I want to put a slightly larger pendant necklace with this, I think. Perhaps a shorter bubble veil, lace trimmed; to balance the skirt. I love the addition of a bracelet!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

Praise

As I posted a few days ago, I really enjoy helping brides and owning this beautiful shop. Here is a lovely e-mail that I received from a lady who visited our store with her friend.



I wanted to thank you for all of your help Saturday when Amanda and I were in. As you know we had been dress shopping all day! We truly enjoyed shopping and spending time at your store. It was 100 times better then anywhere else we had been that day! I am looking forward to bringing Amanda and her family back for them to see the dress she has selected!



Thanks again to you and your staff for making us feel very comfortable and well cared for while we were there! It is greatly appreciated!!!



September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

Bridal Style

These are one of my current favorite pair of earrings. They are "Lauren" by L.Stone Designs. I personally have worn them with a great sweater and a pair of jeans out on a date with my fabulous husband. For bridal style, they look wonderful with a strapless gown that has some vintage flair, or an actual vintage gown. They have just the right amount of "bling" to really draw attention to the wearer's face. The mother-of-pearl has a luster that will make your skin glow. The earrings are hand-crafted here in the USA and can be customized.


Our newest gown arrival is Casablanca 1942. This gown has two of the "trends" that we saw alot of at the Chicago Bridal Market: lace cap sleeves and a "fish-tail" train. Here is the back of the gown, I accessorized it with the "Drew" necklace by MEG Jewelry. I love the way the deep V-back and the necklace's back-drop add to the drama.

Up close! For years, brides have been asking for alternatives to strapless gowns. This is so beautiful and very flattering on. Also, because it is a Casablanca gown, this neckline and the sleeves can be added to other Casablanca gowns for a custom look!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

I love my job!

Each Saturday evening, after a week and a busy day of helping brides choose "The Gown"; I thank God for the opportunity I have to work with lovely young ladies and play dress-up all day long!



Today was another of those days. The day began with a fun appointment with a delightful young lady named Jenny and her aunt. Jenny chose a brand-new Casablanca gown that is just beautiful. A few other brides stopped in to choose bridesmaid dresses and the day ended with two more appointments, Lauren and Amanda, who also found gowns that they liked. Along the way, several of our summer 2008 brides stopped in to pickup their gowns that have been cleaned and preserved. This is a typical Saturday at September's Bride. So fun!



If you are searching for your wedding gown, let me share a few bits of advice:


1. Gowns look different on you than on the hanger or on a model in a magazine or online. They also will look different on one woman than on another. So, try on several styles! You may be surprised!


2. Don't ask "how long can I wait to order?" If you have decided on a gown, go ahead and order the gown; especially if your wedding is within a year. Then, you can move on to other fun decisions and know your gown will arrive in plenty of time for fittings, alterations, and accessories. It is much more relaxing to have your gown arrive early and be able to "visit" it than worry if it will arrive in time. (Just ask Megan & Rachel)

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

Announcing...Saturday Appointments

At September's Bride, we have been so honored with the response to our products and services. We want to thank each of our customers, and especially the nearly 200 brides that we have served in 2008.

Because we want to give each bride the time and attention she deserves, September's Bride will be "By Appointment Only" on Saturdays beginning in January, 2009. We will reserve our downstairs fitting room and stage for walk-ins and browsers on a first-come/first-served basis.

What does this mean for you and any brides that might be shopping in January and thereafter? All one needs to do is call the store (616-355-1433) or e-mail (greatlakesgowns@charter.net) to inquire about available appointment times on an upcoming Saturday. You will be matched with one of our fabulous consultants for a one-hour appointment. We will be scheduling no more than two appointments at a time in our large upstairs fitting and viewing area; so you will have lots of room to bring guests and still get individual attention. For customers who stop in without an appointment, we still encourage them to shop in the store, perhaps make an appointment for later in the day, or use our lovely downstairs fitting and viewing area if it is available.

If you are shopping on a Saturday for bridesmaid gowns, please make an appointment also. Just let us know how many bridesmaids you will have with you so that we can plan accordingly and make sure that you have plenty of room! Mothers or others who are shopping for formals or special occasion gowns do not need appointments; there will be someone ready to help you!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

Veils by Jennifer Leigh - gotta love 'em!

In the past few months, our veil designer, Jennifer Leigh, has put up a beautiful new website; full of inspiration and ideas.

Be sure to check it out at http://www.jenniferleighveils.com/

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

A New Fun Accessory

WINTER BRIDES!

New at September's Bride are beautiful little faux-fur wraps to keep your shoulders warm as you dash about on your wedding day. We have two styles available for purchase, and other styles and colors can be ordered, too.

Not an investment you want to make? We have wraps that can be rented for your wedding beginning at just $39!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

Megan's Wedding Shower

Last night, the September's Bride ladies got together at my home to celebrate Megan's upcoming wedding with a blue-and-silver-candlelighted-themed bridal shower.


We had a dinner-party; with Meditteranean-style appetizers and calzones for the main course. To top it off; dark chocolate truffles for dessert!

Tami & Megan

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

Visit Meg's Blog

Please visit the blog for MEG Jewelry; the first photos in her latest post were taken while Meg was visiting September's Bride for our fall trunk show and anniversary celebration.

Meg will be bringing her collection to our store again on March 6 & 7, 2009. Make plans to spend time at September's Bride for a great experience!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving!

September's Bride will be open tomorrow, Friday, November 28, at 9 am!

Our sample sale will run Friday & Saturday; there are dozens of beautiful gowns at great prices. Also, receive an additional $50 off the price of any custom-ordered Lila Couture or Justin Alexander gown. This weekend only!

Pictured is the new "Rachel" gown from Lila Couture.

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

Decked the Halls & More Sale Deals

Please stop by and see the store! Our resident interior decorator, Michelle, has decked the halls and we are all decorated for Christmas!

Also...late-breaking news...we are adding a great deal to next weekend's Sample Sale. Not only will you find fabulous prices on all sample gowns and one-of-a-kind gowns, but if you order a Lila Couture or Justin Alexander gown during the Sample Sale weekend, you will receive $25-$100 off your custom ordered gown! So, if you have been waiting for the "right time" to order...it has arrived!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

Gift Ideas for the Bride

My wonderful husband, Jeff, proposed to me on November 29, 1991. It was the day after Thanksgiving and we had so much fun sharing the news with our families and friends that weekend.

A month later, it was Christmas; and I was blessed to receive many gifts that I was able to use in our upcoming wedding.

If you have a bride in your life who is planning a wedding in 2009; here are some gift ideas that I know she would appreciate:

1. Garter Set - splurge on a 100% silk garter for her that she would never buy for herself. We have styles to match every bride's fashion sense. ($12-$40)

2. Jewelry - she would love to open an heirloom-quality piece of jewelry on Christmas morning! Necklaces, bracelets, earrings; all made with genuine swarovski crystals and fresh-water pearls. ($30-$200)

3. Hankies - Our hankies are beautifully packaged and so unique! Embroidered with "Bride"; "Mother"; "Grandma"; and "Sister"; there is something for everyone. These would be just beautiful peeking out of the top of a stocking! ($12)

4. Wedding Gown Preservation - Perhaps you know someone who was recently married. Delight her with the gift to last a lifetime. Have her gown cleaned and preserved by Great Lakes Wedding Gown Specialists for her. ($150-$200)


At September's Bride, we know brides! Come in and speak with a consultant who will help you choose the perfect Christmas gift for any bride that you know!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

Holiday Hours

Can you believe that the holidays are only a few weeks away?

Here are the holiday hours for September's Bride:

November 27, Thanksgiving Day :: Closed
November 28 :: Open from 9 am until 5 pm

December 24, Christmas Eve :: Open from 11 am until 3 pm
December 25, Christmas Day :: Closed

December 27 :: Open from 10 am until 3 pm

January 1, New Year's Day :: Closed

September's Bride... a fresh approach to formal.

2nd Annual Sample Sale is coming soon!

Mark your calendars for Thanksgiving Weekend,

November 28 & 29

*

September's Bride will be having our

Annual Sample Sale

with further discounts on already marked-down sample & one-of-a-kind gowns!

*

Bridal Gowns

Veils

Formals

Flower Girl Dresses

Wraps

*

Don't miss this great weekend. Enjoy our fabulous service and amenities while saving on a beautiful wedding gown...now that's smart!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

Highlighted!

September's Bride was highlighted on the WedMichigan blog! Be sure to visit this blog which is full of ideas and photos for Michigan brides.

Introducing "Melissa" by Lila Couture

The gown in the middle of this display is "Melissa"; a new gown from

the 2009 collection of Lila Couture. This gown was introduced at the New York Bridal Market in October, and then came directly to September's Bride.

If you're looking for a gown that is original and new (no one else has it); be sure to consider this beauty.

Melissa is made of silk taffeta with horizontal pleats on the bodice; a V-shaped cut-out at the top, and a beautiful mermaid silhouette. There are two rows of beading at the bottom of the skirt. The top has an optional bow (not shown); and the gown is also available in a petite cut; good for us shorter girls! As with all of Lila's gowns, Melissa is also available in a high-quality polyester taffetta if you choose.

We have put this with a few of our new shorter veils from Jennifer Leigh and absolutely love the look. Of course, the drama of a cathedral length veil would be beautiful, too!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

Sorry - unavoidable absence!

I promised my blog readers some photos of our new Lila Couture gowns earlier this week.

Unfortunately, I was called out of town for the funeral of my husband's grandmother. I will try to get those photos to you in the next few days.

Thanks for your patience. Of course, you will be best served by visiting September's Bride and seeing the gowns (or trying them on) in person!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

SB Bride :: Heather

Heather had a beautiful wedding at the Van Andel Museum Center. You can see a preview of her pics by the fabulous Amy Carroll at Amy's blog. I absolutely loved their cake, too!

Heather wore a silk satin gown with pickups all over the skirt. No "bling"; but with silk, the fabric speaks for itself! Very elegant and classic.

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

Exciting!!!

This week, I received two BRAND NEW gowns from Lila Couture's 2009 collection! We plan on doing a mini photo-shoot on Monday so that I can post some photos for you. However, the gowns are in the windows at September's Bride so you can come see them in person anytime.

Here is the exciting part...one of the gowns that we received is named "Rachel"; after my very own assistant! The gown is fabulous; reminiscent of my own mother's gown from 1970 (in a good way) and has a few characteristics borrowed from Rachel's own gown that she wore this past September.

Rumor has it that there is a "Tami" gown in the 2009 Collection, but I haven't seen it yet. How cool, to have a wedding gown named after you!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

Those are my hands!

If you are a regular reader, you know about the Couture Service that we offer through September's Bride.

Last night, I was browsing the blog of JK Photography and thought I something familiar. Hmmm...

Sure enough, those are MY HANDS lacing up Valeri's gown. Valeri and her Mom were so excited when they learned about our Couture Service that they reserved Valeri's wedding date right away.

I spent over an hour pinning, stitching, sticky-strapping, and dressing Valeri and her bevy of bridesmaids. What fun!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

Bracelets...

I think every bride should wear a bracelet as part of her wedding ensemble.

There is nothing more feminine or graceful than a bit of sparkle floating around a small wrist. It will twinkle behind your bouquet, and catch the light beautifully while you are dancing.

Remember, your jewelry should compliment your gown and all the other accessories, but it does not have to match! Go ahead and mix pearls and crystals, even silver and gold. It is very important, though, that your entire outfit has a "look"; so always try on your gown, veil, and jewelry together when choosing your jewelry.

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

Beginning Again

Just when it seemed that Bridal Season 2008 was "winding down"; we have been inundated with fabulous 2009 brides who are beginning the search for "The Dress"!

Our store has been full of energy and ideas lately; especially on the weekends. If you are planning to visit us soon for a great shopping experience, here are a few tips to help you and us:

1. Saturday, of course, is by far our busiest day. We do try to have plenty of gown consultants on hand, but since we are a smaller store, sometimes it can get pretty busy. If you will be visiting us on a Saturday, no appointment is necessary; but if you know when you are coming, feel free to call so that we can be ready for you as much as possible!

2. Morning or Evening? If you would like to shop outside of our normal business hours, please feel free to call and see what appointment times are available. This will give you the store practically to yourself with our full attention.

3. Best time to shop? Thursday evening! We are open until 8 pm on Thursdays and rarely very busy.

Anytime you are coming to shop at September's Bride, you can look forward to a fun and relaxed experience in a beautiful environment. I personally guarantee it!

September's Bride... a fresh approach to formal.

Market Memories

We've had lots of girls asking..."what do the next season's gowns look like?"

The "biggest" silhouette for 2009 is the empire waist - interpreted as "baby-doll" or "grecian-goddess" style. Lots of flowly chiffon, too.

Newest neckline? Definitely the one-shoulder strap! Really a fun, sophisticated look!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

Another Beautiful Bridal Photo

A few days ago, I shared a photo of Mike & Liz, along with the nice things that Liz had to say about September's Bride. Liz graciously e-mailed me this photo which shows off her gown beautifully.

Brides, remember that for most of your ceremony and for a good part of your reception (dancing), your guests will be looking at the BACK of your gown. Notice how Liz's gown has a beautiful back detail with the long sashes and embroidery. It's important to love the back of your gown as much as the front!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

Bridal Market!

Rachel & I left early yesterday morning for Chicago, to SHOP at the Bridal Market! We spent several hours at the Merchandise Mart, and then headed to Michigan Ave for dinner at our favorite place - Grand Lux Cafe!

Brides, you know that feeling that you get after you sign the purchase contract for YOUR GOWN? Imagine signing for 20-30 gowns in one day; I feel quite overwhelmed this morning!

We had a very fun time; one of our first stops of the day was to see Jenny at Jennifer Leigh; our veil and hairpiece vendor. We purchased some new veils to bring into the store; especially some fun SHORT ones!

Although we love each gown that we purchased for September's Bride, we were very impressed with the Justin Alexander collection as a whole; we think our brides will be, too!

Of course, we stopped to visit with our friends, Rod & Meg Lammers, from MEG Jewelry; we've been seeing alot of them lately!

Stay tuned for more Market reflections throughout this week...

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

SB Bride :: Liz

Photo courtesy of Great Lakes Photography

Liz and her mom, Helen, were just some of our very favorite customers! Always sweet and asked the right questions so that we could help them look beautiful and confident on the "big day". Liz graciously posted the following review of September's Bride on WeddingWire.com




"Tami and Rachel are so nice and helpful. I bought my dress at a sample sale for $300. They gave me a discount on the bridesmaids dresses and my mother's dress and helped me select a great veil. They were very patient with us as we changed our minds about colors and fabric choices. The shop is just beautiful and I would never go anywhere else."

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

Jewelry Girls or Jewelry, Girls?

I hate to admit this, but I've never been a "jewelry girl". It's not that I did not wear jewelry, because I certainly did, it's just that it was more of an afterthought, not an integral part of my style.

I loved to wear my diamond pendant that I received from my grandparents for college graduation, or the ruby and diamond studs that my parents gave me for my 30th birthday. If I needed a quick fix for a "blah" outfit, I would often visit the Target clearance rack for something cheap and trendy. I liked classic, "safe" accessories.

But...two major events happened over the past month that have begun to change me into a "jewelry girl"!

First, Rachel chose a beautiful necklace and earrings from MEG Jewelry to wear on her wedding day with her Lila Couture gown. Now, Rachel's gown was absolutely beautiful. Dupioni silk...beautiful embroidery and beadwork...just gorgeous. But, when she put her jewelry on, her whole look, from head to toe, came "alive"! I could not stop looking at her. The right jewelry made a beautiful bride look absolutely breathtaking.

This past weekend, we had a trunk show with Meg Lammers herself from MEG Jewelry. (the most fun weekend EVER at September's Bride!) As I saw bride after bride put on her wedding gown for Meg and then watched Meg adorn them with jewelry, the same thing happened that had happened with Rachel. Beautiful gowns just "popped" with the right accessories. Authentic Swarovski crystals, fresh water pearls, and great design worked together to create magic right in front of the mirrors!

The thing is...it works with "normal" clothes, too. Each day, Meg graciously allowed me to wear jewelry around the store, and change as often as I wanted. I had so much fun changing the look of my simple red dress as the day went on.

So, I am now a "jewelry girl"!!! Sure, I'll still wear my sentimental pieces listed above, but I will no longer play it safe - I want to sparkle and glow! Give me big, bold pearls...give me colored crystals...give me bracelets that catch the light...let me feel feminine and sexy...thanks, Meg!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

MEG is here!

Meg & Rod Lammers from MEG Jewelry arrived last night (loved the City Flats hotel here in Holland) and set up their jewelry in the store today. Even if you are not shopping for jewelry, please come by and meet this fantastic couple!

Also, cake tasting from Second Floor Bakery - all day today and tomorrow. I've already had a few "tastings" myself - YUMMY!

Also, watch the blog next week for more news from our other jewelry designer, L.Stone Designs!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

1st place - peoples' choice award!

WE WON!!!

We are celebrating here at September's Bride; the news came this morning that we won the People's Choice Award in last Friday night's Live Mannequin Event here in Downtown Holland!

We will continue our celebrating through this weekend with our MEG Jewelry Trunk Show and Cake Tasting Event with Second Floor Bakery. A fantastic way to end our first year and begin our second year in business!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

downtown holland shines

Sarah & Jonny

Liz & August

Last night was fabulous; the weather was perfect, and the streets were full of people, enjoying the weather, the food, and the live mannequins in the store windows.

Thanks to all of you who stopped by with encouraging words for our mannequins. Stay tuned as the voting results come in...

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

live mannequin competition tonight

Tonight from 6:30 - 8:00 pm, there is a Live Mannequin Competition in Downtown Holland! As I type this, our windows are being decorated by our resident interior design expert, Michelle. Four models, Sara, Elizabeth, August, and Jonny,will be placed in the windows this evening.

Please come and see! Also, you can vote for your favorite Live Mannequin Display, and enter drawings at all of the participating merchants.

At September's Bride, enter to win a $50 gift certificate!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

SB First-Year Anniversary - our gift to you!

Between now and next Saturday, September 27, we are giving our brides a gift:

$50 off any custom-ordered gown

Don't miss out!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

happy anniversary!

Sixteen Years of Wedded Bliss!


My wonderful husband, Jeff, and I are marking our 16th wedding anniversary, today, September 18.


We were married September 18, 1992, at 7:30 in the evening at Rose Park Baptist Church, here in Holland.


Because our wedding was before the digital photography age, my father-in-law graciously scanned a photo for me to share with you. Our photographer was Nick DeVries, of DeVries Photography. He did a wonderful job and is still in business and highly recommended! A side note...Nick's father took my parents' wedding photos in 1970.


My brother was Jeff's best man; and Jeff's sister, Jennifer, was my MOH. They drove us to the reception in this 1988 Cadillac that belonged to my parents.

Here are more of our details:

Bridal & Bridesmaid Gowns: Grand Village Bridal (a very nice shop that is no longer in business, located in the former Grand Village Mall in Grandville)

Tuxes: Dunhill Tuxedo (available now at September's Bride!)

Reception Location: Sandy Point (lately known as Pigeon Lake Lodge; now sadly closed)

Photographer: DeVries Photography, Holland

Flowers: Floral-A-Fare (since purchased by Eastern Floral); white roses, delphiums, and alstromeria

Color Theme: white, silver, & periwinkle blue; the men wore black tuxes

Wedding Night Suite: Amway Grand Plaza; downtown GR

Honeymoon Destination: Toronto & Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada

My wish for each of you is a long and happy marriage!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

new to the bridal blog world

One of my very favorite people in the bridal world has started her own blog!

Amanda Brown of Lila Couture is now in the blogworld; you can visit her at www.lilacouture.blogspot.com

If you have read my blog for any amount of time, you know how much I LOVE the gowns by Lila Couture. Each bride from September's Bride who has chosen a Lila gown has been absolutely delighted with the style and quality.

Now, Lila Couture is introducing a bridesmaid line and a flower girl line! You can learn more at her blog and, of course, we will keep you updated right here, too.

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

SB Bride :: Holli

Dress :: Maggie Sottero Couture

Photographer :: Steven Fox Photography

SB Bride :: Rachel

Dress :: by Lila Couture

Veil :: Jennifer Leigh Bridal

Jewelry :: MEG Jewelry

Photographer :: Steven Fox Photography

more snapshots

OK...my pro photo friend, Steve Fox, must be very busy with today's wedding...because I still have not seen photos from Rachel & Maurico's wedding. However, here are a few more snapshots, courtesy of one of Rachel's 'maid's Facebook page!

Rachel & Brenda

Brenda, Audrey, & Jenny, avoiding the rain

Introducing Mr&Mrs

Another reception scene

Let's chant together..."We want pictures, Steve! We want pictures, Steve!...

what a lovely night!

The rain stopped this evening in time for a beautiful outdoor ceremony. The wedding we have all been waiting for went off without a hitch; and now Rachel & Mauricio are "hitched".

Steven Fox took the photographs, and I will post some of his pro shots tomorrow. For now, here are some snapshots that I took:

"I'm going to Hawaii on my honeymoon!"

Beautiful Windmill Island

The flower girls, Paulina & Valerina

All the plans came together perfectly and the wedding was beautiful. Rachel surprised Mauricio by singing a song to him before the vows. The guests enjoyed the venue; and all had a great time!

Steve Fox has promised me some professional shots tomorrow; and I will share more details. Right now, I'm exhausted!

God Bless America!

SB Bride :: Betsy

Photo by Riversedge Photography

This is Betsy, wearing a beautiful lace sheath from Casablanca that she purchased at September's Bride. She is also wearing a necklace from L.Stone Designs, another September's Bride exclusive!

Betsy says, "Just want you to know that I really had a great experience shopping for my dress at your boutique. I ended up with the right one and everyone else loved it as well. I have been recommending you to all future brides I know."

Betsy's new husband, Troy, owns Riversedge Photography. Be sure to check out their website for more beautiful images!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

love this look!

I absolutely adore vintage clothing...and vintage style. I especially love people with style who can take a vintage look and make it look modern and fresh.

I came across photos of a beautiful wedding while visiting the blog of Ben Harrison Photography.

The men in the wedding party are wearing white coats with black trousers and black bow ties. Definitely a vintage, even old-fashioned, look. But, it looks fantastic in this venue and on these guys.

busy bridal week

Things are just buzzing in our corner of the woods this week!

Lovely Rachel will be getting married this Friday night!

Also on Friday evening, the Grand Rapids Wedding Affair will be held at the Van Andel Museum Center in Downtown Grand Rapids. September's Bride will be there; please say "hi" to Katie, Megan, and Allison, who will be running our booth. Also, brides-to-be, Anna, Jennifer, and Brooke will be modeling some beautiful fashions from our designers! Stay tuned for details or visit the official site.

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

arrived!

For those of you dear brides & readers who have been following Rachel's gown journey...

IT ARRIVED TODAY!!

Breathtaking...

Perfect...

Gorgeous...

Stylish...

Beautiful...

I can't post pics until after the wedding next weekend...but on Saturday morning, please check back!

when to buy?

Photo by Steven F. Fox

Bridal Season '09 begins in just nine months! Of course, some of you may be getting married in the last months of '08 or the first months of '09. If you have not already decided on a wedding gown, now is the time!

I am often asked "when should I order my gown?" or "how long does it take for a wedding gown to come in?"

Here are a few guidelines:

Most wedding gowns will arrive at the store 3-4 months after ordering the gown. You should leave 2 months for ordering accessories and having fittings. Therefore, we suggest ordering a custom gown no later than 5-6 months before your wedding.

If you are ordering a gown with custom changes, or from a couture line (such as our Lila Couture gowns), you should plan on at least six months for the gown to arrive. Using the above timetable, you should order your gown 8-12 months before your wedding.

Sometimes gowns will arrive early, but most are "right on time"! Of course, most gown designers have a "rush program", but this will cost you a significant fee, such as $100-$200.

We also have a nice selection of sample gowns which are available for sale right "off-the-rack" at all times!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

happy anniversary to us

September, 2008, is our first-anniversary month at

September's Bride!

The past twelve months have been full of blessings; thank you to each person who has been in our store; as a customer, a vendor, a friend, an employee...

A few ways in which we are celebrating this month include:

Grand Rapids Bridal Affair; September 12 from 5-9 pm at the Van Andel Museum Center

Downtown Holland's Gone Shopping Event; September 19 & 20

Trunk Show with MEG Jewelry; September 26 & 27

We'll be sharing lots more about these events as they come closer. Also, stay tuned for more fun ways to help us celebrate all month long!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

happy labor day!

So that the September's Bride family may spend time with their families,

the store will be closed on September 1, 2008; in observance of Labor Day.

Please come see us on Tuesday, September 2, when we will reopen during our regular business hours.

New Bridesmaid Looks

The 2009 bridesmaid looks are beginning to arrive in the store! This year, we are seeing lots of flowy chiffon looks; a very soft and easy fabric to wear. Another big trend is the return of straps for your maids. Much easier to fit and wear for some figures; I know this will be welcome in many wedding parties. Of course, if you prefer strapless, that classic style will always be available in fresh fabrics and styles, too.






Any bride who purchases her wedding gown at our store will receive 20% Off on all of her bridesmaid gowns!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

Couture Service

I've posted before about our Couture Service; offered by September's Bride & Great Lakes Wedding Gown Specialists, LLC.

A few weeks ago, I provided Couture Service for a lovely bride here in Holland. My friend, Barry Jeter, of Procedo Events, did the flowers for the wedding, and I was again in awe of the fantastic decor and floral arrangements that he designs.

I also had the opportunity of meeting the lovely Jen Kroll of Jen Kroll Photography. Jen's photography is beautiful and she seems to work so inconspicuously and graciously.

Part of our "Couture Service" is being available while everyone is dressing for the wedding, making sure everything is "just right". At this wedding, the three darling flower girl's sashes would not stay in place! So, I pulled out my trusty "emergency kit" and quickly stitched them in place. The girls were so worried that I was going to poke them; but we chatted about American Girl dolls to put them at ease.

Here is a photo that Jen captured of me in action. See how tightly the flower girl has her fists clenched?


Interested in Couture Service for you and your wedding party? E-mail me at greatlakesgowns@charter.net for rates and available dates.

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

Wanted :: Michigan Couples

This morning, I opened the Holland Sentinel to find this little blurb; I wanted to share it with my blog readers.

DreamWorks Television and Mark Burnette Productions are seeking Michigan couples for a new wedding series they're co-producing.
"We are currently casting deserving couples who are, were, or would like to plan a 2008-2009 wedding," said Casting Director Charisse Simonian, who went to Ferris State University. "We are looking for couples who truly have an amazing story."
She provided a few examples, but said the circumstances don't have to be limited to these:
*Had to postpone or cancel wedding due to illness, deployment, natural disaster or injury.
*Military and National Guard couples serving in Iraq or Afghanistan.
*Stories of inspiration, overcoming the odds to help others.
Interested couples should email a paragraph about their story and include a recent photo and contact information to Simonian at csimonian@markburnettprod.com. Couples may be also asked to provide a video.

Hmmm....what do you think?

New Arrival :: Casablanca 1918

I just love Casablanca gowns!

Here is Style 1918; beautiful and traditional, with a fit-and-flare silhouette. Beautiful lace over satin; with some great shimmer, too!

This gown arrived today at September's Bride; come in and try it on!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

Trend :: Baby-Doll Silhouette

What are we seeing as a big trend in bridal for 2009? Definitely the "baby-doll" dress; made sophisticated and elegant, like this gown from Novissima.

This is a good choice if you are tall or if you are slim. If you are petite and curvy, you may be happier with a gown that shows off your waist.

This gown style looks great with a long veil; think "Grecian Goddess". Wear some long chandelier earrings, and you'll be one fabulous, fashionable bride!

SB Bride :: Mindy

Don't you just love the way that they are looking at each other?

Mindy comes from a large family of girls; in fact, she was the second sister to purchase a gown from September's Bride. Mindy's gown is a beautiful silk sheath, simple in it's elegance, for sure! Her personality is lovely, too. Congrats, Mindy, on your wedding; you look gorgeous!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

September's Bride is Hiring!

Do you love wedding gowns?
Do you love to serve others?
Do you need a part-time job?

If you answered "yes" to all three of the above questions, we would love to hear from you. Our summer intern, Rhea, is heading back to college, and we need an additional part-time member of our September's Bride team.

Please e-mail your resume to greatlakesgowns@charter.net OR snail-mail it to 56 E 8th Street, Holland, MI 49423.

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

Spotlighted!

September's Bride was spotlighted on Pearl's Event's blog earlier this week!

Click here to read the interview.




September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

SB Bride :: Beth

Gown :: Lila Couture
Natural Silk Satin;
Ivory Silk Taffeta Sash

Photo :: Steven Fox Photography

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.

SB Bride :: Lisa

Lisa wore a beautiful ivory gown from Casablanca Bridal.

Photo is courtesy of the always-fabulous Amy Carroll

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.