For over four decades, The Wedding Shoppe has been considered the all-in-one shop for all things wedding. Their selection includes trending bridal gowns from renowned designers, a variety of bridesmaids’ dresses, mother of the bride/groom looks, and so much more. We talked to Carolyn, Director of Sales at The Wedding Shoppe, about the history behind this established shop and what is currently trending in wedding apparel.
Q: Let’s get to it, what’s your business’ specialty?
A: Wedding apparel! Bridal gowns, bridesmaids’ dresses, menswear, and mother of the bride and groom dresses.
Q: Where can we find you?
A: Saint Paul, Minnesota
Q: Tell us when and how your business began.
A: In 1977, Jim and Lois Fritz opened The Wedding Shoppe on Grand Avenue in Saint Paul, Minnesota. They had a goal to be the one-stop wedding shop that had the charm and selection of a specialty store while carrying all the merchandise and services necessary for a wedding. Now, 45 years later, they are still providing exceptional service and options for brides, grooms, and all members of the wedding party.
Q: What makes your company unique from others?
A: Did you know we’ve been around for over 45 years?! Trends come and go but our unbeatable prices, attention to detail, and passion for creating unforgettable experiences have not. This is why we’ve grown into the premier wedding retailer in Minnesota, and one of the largest bridal salons in the country. We offer hundreds of wedding dresses with prices ranging from under $1,000 to $3,000+ as well as affordable bridesmaid dresses, Mother of the Bride/Groom dresses, suits, flower girl dresses, bridal party robes, pajamas, accessories, and more!
Q: How long have you been in the industry? What do you think has changed the most since then?
A: We are celebrating our 45th anniversary this year!
Q: What would you want couples searching for wedding fashions and/or alterations to know?
A: We are here to help you find exactly what you’ve been looking for!
Q: How far in advance should a couple book with you?
A: We recommend 6-12 months in advance; however we have fantastic options for those who have a shorter engagement.
Q: Are there any wedding trends you’d like to see fade away?
A: There are not any trends that we would necessarily like to fade away; however we are excited about the upcoming 2023/2024 season.
Q: What trends can we expect to see more of this year?
A: 3-D florals, mini bows, pearl details, elaborate ballgowns, off-the-shoulder sleeves, botanical prints, and vintage beading.
Q: What’s YOUR favorite recent wedding fashion trend?
A: We have loved dresses with bow details and elaborate pearl details.
Q: What’s your best piece of advice for couples looking for their wedding fashion?
A: Enjoy the process! Shopping for your wedding apparel! It is one of the best parts of wedding planning.
LIGHTNING ROUND!
Q: Duck Duck Grey Duck or Duck Duck Goose?
A: Duck Duck Grey Duck
Q: Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall Wedding?
A: We love all seasons! If I had to pick one it would be Fall weddings.
Q: Veil or no veil?
A: Definitely a veil
Q: Mountains or Beach?
A: This is such a difficult choice… Beach!
Q: Chocolate or Vanilla?
A: Chocolate!
Q: Go-to comfort food?
A: Lobster rolls and French fries
Q: Which celebrity would you choose to sit next to on a plane?
A: Oprah
Q: What show are you binging right now?
A: Bridgerton
Q: Go-to cocktail (or mocktail)?
A: Lemon Drop Martini
Book your appointment to try on gowns from Mori Lee, Casablanca, Watters, and more here!
All images courtesy of The Wedding Shoppe
