Yesterday I had the opportunity to sit down with Beth Chapman of The White Dress by the Shore and tour her exquisite boutique. It’s located in downtown Clinton in a historic and beautiful old home (I think she said it was over two hundred years old!). The boutique is so inviting and beautifully designed; it is, in every sense of the word, the essence of what a bridal boutique should be. I was so impressed by every element of White Dress – from the beautiful décor, to the unbelievable inventory of gowns by Anne Barge, Priscilla of Boston, Judd Waddell, and so many more. Beth also introduced me to a line of gowns by a very up-and-coming Connecticut designer, Modern Trousseau, which I have to admit, where unbelievable. So exquisite and different from other gowns on the market. I’m really looking forward to meeting the creative force behind this beautiful line (and maybe walking down the aisle in a Modern Trousseau gown myself!) Plus, they are handmade right here in Woodbury, Connecticut. What could be better than celebrating and supporting a local designer? Along with her impeccable inventory of gowns she also carries a darling line of flower girl dresses by Annie Girl which I immediately fell in love with. They were so unique and playful. White Dress also has a variety of Mother of the Occasion gowns which were unique and different – not your typical mother of the occasion flare. She also carries some tremendous accessories – from veils to beautiful and ornate Swarovski crystal hair jewelry, and lace bolero jackets. I was in heaven!

Beth and her staff recently launched Chic by the Shore, which is located right behind White Dresses’ main building. It is an interesting concept that is super beneficial to brides. It’s a fusion of bridesmaid gowns and invitations by Stonington Design+Paperie (which might be one of the only couture invitation designers in the state – but more on Christine and her fabulous creations later! She needs a post all her own!). I love the idea that a bride can have the White Dress by the Shore “experience” not only when buying her gown, but also gowns for her attendants and when designing her invitations. I feel it is important, too, to define the type of experience a bride can expect when visiting White Dress and Chic by the Shore. Beth and her staff are so incredibly attentive and invested in each and every client that they work with. Beth has an extraordinary love for fashion and weddings, and it is so evident in how enthusiastic she is about each and every item that she carries. They develop wonderful relationships with their clients and their families. It is the type of environment where in three years from now, when you attend your best friend or sister’s fitting, they will remember you and every detail of your wedding that you shared.

They also have a wonderful alterations policy which is a bit different from other bridal boutiques in the state and really ends up benefiting the bride. White Dress also uses local seamstresses in Clinton, but has a network of talented seamstresses in other areas of the state for brides who can’t make the travel to their boutique for alterations.

I really encourage all my readers who are searching for their gown to make an appointment at White Dress. I can’t wait for my own appointment to try on gowns and find the one!

There is also a Modern Trousseau Bridal and Mother of the Occasion Trunk Show on September 25th — September 27th. I am so upset I won’t be able to go as I’ll be away for the weekend on vacation. White Dress is offering a 10% discount on any Modern Trousseau purchase made during the event. Visit their website for more information!