Some things are constant in human experience. We fall in love and many of us marry. Weddings will continue and Vow’d Weddings has moved into 11 Market Square to help make that day happen. It is the bridal sister brand to Altar’d State. They offer more “affordable dresses under $1300.” (Editor’s Fun Fact: The average wedding dress in the U.S. costs $1,631) Faymi Winters, Director of Stores, said they “want to be in places that are accessible. That desire to be accessible also drives the website where the full inventory is available and will be delivered within five days.
Faymi said the need for more affordable dresses goes back many years as prices have risen. Saying that the expense often makes the purchase a struggle, rather than a joy, Vow’d wants the experience to be special, not stressful. “Our team felt we could present beautiful, affordable styles in a well designed environment with exceptional service.”
The new company, which hopes to expand throughout the state and beyond from their base on Market Square, offers a range of styles in wedding dresses, but also offers “reception and little white dresses for dinners, receptions, elopements,” and more. They also offer bride’s maids dresses and accessories. The website offers gift items and decor for brides and weddings.
I was curious as to how a bride might be able to make such a significant purchase online. Faymi said, they offer a lot of virtual assistance to make it possible. All dresses are available online and there are “fit notes” provided, as well as instructions on how to measure yourself for a dress.
Virtual appointments are available and the platform allows showing the dresses to a very detailed level. Questions are answered by an expert stylist. Potential customers can also have up to three dresses delivered to their home to try for a small charge. All dresses have a fifteen day return option. The company wanted to offer an option to brides who may not be able to travel to the store.
She said they love historic buildings and architecture for the charm and warmth and “love the community aspect of Market Square.” She said they wanted to be a part of a place that offered the potential for brides to make the experience of selecting a dress an even larger experience if they so desired by going out to lunch or to enjoy cocktails while downtown.
Faymi said she wants the community to know that giving back is a core belief for the Altar’d State ownership. One percent of profits will go to charities with a focus on empowering young women. They want to connect locally as much as possible and to contribute to the larger community.
The shop is open now, but they are hosting an Open House from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm this Saturday. They would love for people to come by, meet the team, check out the store and potentially book an appointment. You can also follow them on Facebook or Instagram.