Thanks to a bridal website and some other customers, I found the place where I hope to buy my wedding gown. I never would have found this on my own, but it's the best kept secret on the East Coast!!
The reality for a plus size bride is that this can be a horribly harrowing experience. Stressful at the very least, but horrifying is more likely. I wanted to have the same experience that 'normal' sized women have---to try on as many gowns as it takes to find MY wedding gown. As my ample sized sisters can attest, it just doesn't happen at most stores. And then I found Botticelli. I really can't say enough for this boutique! I anticipated good things simply from the few e-mail exchanges I had with Jan prior to my appointment. She asked questions to get to know more about me and my wedding. I felt at ease with her but still apprehensive. I was a little nervous when I arrived and saw the neighborhood/store front. It's very unassuming. The store had a handful of rounders in the front of some clothes---most not my taste, but some cute spring/summer cotton dresses that were right up my alley. I didn't see any gowns.....which must be why it's ""appointment only"" for bridal.
I talked with Jan for a few minutes. She explained that I didn't need a bra in her dresses. (ARE you kidding me?! Seriously...as a D or DD, I never imagined it possible until I actually tried the dresses on! Built in foundations. Who'd have thought?!) I went back into the changing room and she did everything for me!! (Completely different from my DB experience...) She put me in the gowns, strapped them on, clamped them to make them look right and helped me to the front where my mom waited patiently. The only complaint I have is that there were so many gowns in my size to try on a and choose from that I was really overwhelmed. At another bridal store it was easy. I had 3 or 4 that 'fit"" and only considered 3 of them....I figured they'd be fine if I had to choose one, but they didn't really make me happy.
I think I likely tried on 15 or 20 gowns at Botticelli, though it really felt like 30! There were so many styles to choose from---strapless, with straps, lace, satin, taffeta, etc. I couldn't believe it! If you haven't found your gown yet, you absolutely must try Botticelli.
I think I most appreciated Jan's willingness to overlook my 'demands' and put me into gowns that worked for my body type. She listened carefully to me and showed me styles that would work for my waterfront Florida wedding. (FYI:There's a sample sale next Friday, too!) I didn't find MY gown yet, but I will definitely buying it from Jan. The gowns have these straps inside---no bra or foundation necessary. Their quality is unmatched. The material was beautiful and high quality. I've never felt so comfortable trying on clothes of any type before. I've never felt so beautiful. Hope you ladies will try it out!! Don't let the RI address fool you---it took me less than 40 minutes to get there from Boston!!
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