Lake Champlain in Burlington, Vermont

New year, new you. At least that’s what all the post-New Year’s weight loss commercials would have you believe. As for me, I did think that the new year would bring a new life for my husband and me. Shortly before Christmas we found out that my husband had been offered a job in Burlington,Vermont. We spent Christmas and New Year’s Eve in our apartment and on New Year’s Day, we put in our 30 day notice.

After that we began preparing for the move. We posted our furniture on craigslist since we could not take it with us all the way across the country. We were worried that we wouldn’t be able to sell everything in time and it turned out that we started too early. Now we are down to the bare minimum, essentially just a mattress and a chair, as we wait out the rest of the month. It seems like we’ve been doing a lot of waiting recently. We are still waiting to hear when my husband starts work and when he has to train for the job. We’ve been waiting so long for this to happen, though, that a little more waiting won’t kill us.

As we start making plans, it’s hard not to be reminded of our first cross-country trip together. It was almost exactly three years ago when we moved from Virginia to Monterey, California. We had to sell all of our furniture then too, mostly things we had gotten from our parents when we graduated college and moved in together. We hadn’t even been dating two years when we packed up the car and began our four-day drive that had us stopping in Nashville, Amarillo, and Needles on our way here. Now, three years later and eight months after my husband graduated and started job hunting, we are ready to leave.

I remember being jealous of the brides I met who had their lives all planned out. Many of them had husbands who were officers in the military and they were going to be taken care of even if they did have to move all over the country. Being a military brat myself, and never much for stability, I was surprised how uncomfortable I was not knowing where we would be in the next month or the next year. We are still in a state of uncertainty now, but we are moving in the right direction. And that direction is East.

I recently had a bride who was only a few days away from her wedding and was trying to put the last details together. When she found out that I had gotten married in March, she asked if I had any advice. Unable to think of anything that would be universally relevant, I said no. The fact is, everyone does things differently. That is not to say that I’m a complete relativist. If she had asked me something specific, I would not have held back from telling her exactly what I had done and how it worked out. But without knowing anything about her and her wedding, I found it impossible to give a single piece of advice that would make a diffference. Sure, I agree with most people, that you should take some time and enjoy it, that you shouldn’t lose sight of why you are getting married and so on, but such vague notions aren’t entirely helpful when you are only two days away from the big day. 

Would I have done anything differently if I were planning my wedding now? Of course. But that’s only because the wedding business changes constantly. If working in a bridal boutique has taught me anything, it’s that nothing is timeless. No matter who you are, your decisions will be affected by what is in style, what is popular, and what is current.

There was a gown that I loved before I was engaged that was discontinued once I was actually shopping. If I had gotten engaged just months earlier, that would have been my wedding gown. Now, nine months after my wedding, I see new gowns coming out all the time and wonder if there’s anything out there that’s better than my dress. And even if I haven’t found anything yet, you always wonder. Chance has a lot to do with it too. Which dresses happen to be in what store and which stores you chose to visit when can influence your choice even if you have something specific in mind.

Someday my children will look at my wedding pictures and laugh the way that I laugh at my parents’ very 80s wedding. My parents didn’t realize when they wed that their wedding was going to be dated. My mom once told me, “that’s just what people did back then!” Now there are certain things that people just do too, especially with weddings. Some trends are more obvious as trends, but nobody knows what the future will bring.

As nice as it is to think about the past, it’s too easy to get caught up in it. At this stage in my marriage I would much rather look ahead to the future than look back to the wedding. I have so much to look forward to that I don’t want to think about what could have been. I hope that all my brides get to a place where they can’t remember what went wrong or worry that it could have been better because they have much more important things to think about, like buying a house and starting a family. Even if you aren’t thinking about the future, just being happy in the present is the best way to go and definitely the best place to be.

 We’ve been blessed with many wonderful brides and their bridal parties throughout 2012.  Chantel and her girls are definitely at the top of the list!

Chantel was married this past September.   She chose all Watters dresses for her wedding.   Chantel’s gown is “Bliss” from Watters Brides.  A softly fitted a-line in eggshell silk satin with just a touch of lace at the bodice.  The back is detailed with silk buttons from top to hem – a great detail to add to any gown!

We designed Chantel’s veil from our own veil collection – an elbow length mantilla style trimmed in lace matching her gown.  A truly elegant, timeless look and Chantel looks absolutely beautiful.

Chantel’s bridal party all chose different dresses from Watters Bridesmaids in a soft crinkle chiffon.  The color is “buff”. We love that the wedding look invokes a vintage feel with a modern twist in the bridesmaid mix and match dress selection.

We love when our brides share their wedding pictures. Thank you, Chantel! And a special credit to photographer, Julie Cahill.  Great pictures!

Thank you again to Chantel and her bridal party for choosing Epiphany Boutique. We thoroughly enjoyed working with you!

Custom Veil designed by Epiphany Bridal Boutique

Chantel and her bridesmaids in Watters

For more information about any of the dresses you’ve seen here or on our website, please give us a call at 831-626-7700 or contact us here.

Gown "Hollywood" from the Watters Collection

 Are you a bride looking for a gorgeous designer gown, but are on a budget? Great news! Epiphany Boutique will now be posting all our clearance and discontinued designer bridal gowns, bridesmaids, mothers and more online. All gowns and dresses are reduced by at leasst 50% or more.

You can find our sales on our facebook photo album. New items will be added daily, so check  back regulary! If you see a gown you love, you may request additional information or pictures.

A few notes about our sales gowns and dresses:

1. All sales are final.  If you have any questions about any gown, please ask before you purchase.

2. Alterations are not included on clearance items. Check the sizing of the gown against your own body measurements. We would be happy to give you an estimate of alteration costs.

3. Free UPS/Fedex ground shipping anywhere in the continental United States.  Great news if you are not able to come into the store to purchase the gown!

4. Payment forms accepted:  Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover and Cash. Sorry, no personal checks.

5. All gowns are NEW and in excellent condition, unless otherwise stated.

Here are just a few of the gowns available:

"Escalante" by Watters, Ivory Silk Taffeta, Size 8

Justin Alexander Signature Collection Style 9651, Size 8, Ivory

"Hollywood" by Watters, Size 10, Ivory Silk and lace

"Dallas" by Watters, Ivory Silk Satin and Lace, Size 10

Sophi Tolli, Style Y21166, Size 10

"Yuma" by Watters, Size 10, Eggshell Silk Satin

"Austin" by Watters, Size 10, Ivory Silk Organza

For more gowns, check out our online photo album.  New gowns and dresses will be added daily, so check back often.  Don’t see the gown that you are looking for? Call us at 831-626-7700 or contact us.

Happy Shopping!

WTOO Bridal Spring 2013 Collection

January is the kickoff of bridal season.  According to Wedding Wire, 33% of couples get engaged between Thanksgiving and NewYear’s Day. That means this is the month that the newly engaged start the search for their wedding gown.  It’s a very exciting experience, but can be a bit overwhelming.

There is a ton of advice that you’ll be given. From your moms, family members, girlfriends, etc.  All will have something to say based on their own experiences when shopping for their own gowns.  Well, we’d like to add our own tips.  These are just a few tidbits to get you started.  There will be more to come later!

1. Before you hit the bridal stores, pick up a bridal magazine or go online to get the feel of the bridal gown world.  You’ll be able to get a peek at the newest collections and trends. Create a file with your favorite picks that you’ll take with you when you go to the bridal salons.

2. Go online and find listings of bridal salons.  Some ways to find salons are: google, yelp, the knot, wedding wire, bridal gown website store locator listings and more. Not all stores are listed on all sites, so do a search of a few search sites so you don’t miss any salons in your area.

3. Once you’ve located the stores that you’d like to visit, call first. For the most part, bridal stores work by appointment. 

4. Bring pictures of the types of gowns that you’d like to try on, but stay open to other options.  You will never know what looks good on you until you try it on.

5.  Bring your own strapless bra and heels.  Some stores have loaners, some don’t. Either way, it’s really best to have your own.

6.  We know that many brides want to include all their nearest and dearest when shopping. Unfortunately, when too many people come with you, you will only end up confused and frustrated. We’ve seen many brides take votes on who likes what dress and then they are disappointed when their own favorite gown is not everyone else’s favorite.  Bring 2 or 3 people whose opinion you value and who will be focused only on you.

7. Ordering and Delivery.  Normal delivery time for wedding gowns is anywhere from 5-7 months. That is always a shocker for many brides! Keep in mind that bridal gowns in your size, color and style are not hanging in a warehouse waiting to be purchased. Bridal gowns are made to order. They are also very labor intensive.  Ideally, you want to order your gown 9-12 months before your wedding date. 

8. Rush Delivery. What if you’re reading this today and your wedding is set for June 2013? Are you out of luck? Not at all.  Let your bridal store know your wedding date up front. They will know which designers offer rush deliveries and can meet your date. Also check out stock (in-store) gowns.  Just because you have a tight schedule, don’t rush into purchasing the first gown you see. Call around to bridal stores and see what they have available from their own stock and samples.

9.  Have a good time! Bridal gown shopping is a once in a lifetime experience and should be filled with great memories. Don’t feel pushed or pressured into making a decision on the spot. It’s ok to step out for a cup of coffee and think through the gowns that you’ve seen and which one you will choose.

10. Visit or call Epiphany Boutique! Do you have any questions or concerns regarding the shopping or ordering process? We will gladly answer all of them.  Give us a call at 831-626-7700 or contact us here. 

Bill Levkoff Bridesmaid Collection

Finding the perfect bridesmaid dress for your bridal party is one of a bride’s most difficult decisions. Making that decision just became a bit easier.  At Epiphany Boutique, we’re always on the search for new collections to offer our brides more choices, colors and styles.  That’s why we’re excited to introduce the Bill Levkoff Bridemaid Collection.

Bill Levkoff is a name that has been known in the bridal world since the 1950′s, starting in New York with a small showroom. Today, they are internationally recognized as a leader in bridesmaid and flowergirl fashions.  We’re thrilled to join the Bill Levkoff family as an authorized retailer!

The 2013 collection offers fabulous styles, colors and fabrics. They are priced perfectly – your bridesmaids will love the bride for that.  Sizes range from 0-28, extra length is available and they offer rush deliveries (at an extra charge) for those last minute purchases.

Dresses are available to order now, so contact us for more information at 831-626-7700 or drop us a note.

Here’s a sample of what’s in store……

At Epiphany Bridal Boutique, all bridesmaid dresses come with free alterations! We also offer complimentary shipping within the continental U.S. for bridal parties not able to come into our store.  Additional discounts and promotions may be available.  Speak to an Epiphany bridal consultant for more information.

Gown by WTOO Bridal for Spring 2013

 Happy New Year from all of us at Epiphany Bridal Boutique!

Thank you to all of our customers who helped make 2012 such a wonderful year for us.  We look forward to a fantastic 2013!

This year, we’re adding new collections and styles for bridal, bridesmaids, prom, mothers and more.   

 Follow our blog and our facebook page for upcoming events, sales and new arrivals.

We wish you all a very happy and healthy 2013!

Spring is in the air….at Watters Bridal!  We’re excited to announce that our Watters Spring 2013 Trunk Show  is only 3 weeks away – January 18-20. 

The 2013 collection takes bridal in a new direction. Innovative silhouettes, soft, fresh colors, luxurious fabrics and amazing details! If you’re a bride who is in love with the new blush color trending in bridal, you’ll find the perfect gown with Watters. If you’re a bride who loves a classic look with just a touch of fashion forwardness, Watters has the gown for you as well! 

Our Watters trunk show is the perfect time to shop for your gown.  It’s the only time we’ll have the ENTIRE collection here for one weekend only. You’ll also have the added bonus of working with Vanessa, Watters bridal specialist. 

We’re taking appointments now for January 18-20, 2013.  Give us a call at 831-626-7700 or email your appointment request to info@epiphany-boutique.com.

Enjoy the lovely gowns featured below!

Watters Muna

Watters Francisca

Watters Antonia

Watters Blanca

Watters Consuela

Watters Jordana

Watters Gloria

Watters Leonor

Watters Naya

Watters Sonia

Watters Tania

Watters Fabienne

Watters Bella

Watters Rosario

Watters Lydia

Watters Claudia

Watters Fernanda

Watters Salma

My husband and I on our family vacation in Maui

Christmas is an interesting time to be a newlywed. The holidays are all about family and as a new family, newlyweds have a lot of decisions to make. What from your old family do you want to bring with you into your new family and what do you want to leave behind? If you are spending the holidays just the two of you, like we are, you get to decide on new traditions. If you are spending the holidays with your family of origin, you have to decide which family to see when. Even if you are just trying to spend time with both families, your in-laws or parents might be offended if they believe they are not taking priority.

Even though we spent Thanksgiving and Christmas with just us and our dog, we spent two weeks in Hawaii with my mom  in the middle of the holiday season. The family vacation was the main reason we were not able to fly home and spend time with other people. Family vacations, which are common during the holiday season, come with their own set of problems. It may be hard to maintain boundaries when you are thrown back into the same living situation as when you were a child. Your parents might find it hard to treat you like a married man or woman when they are so used to you being their little boy or girl. While we were on vacation, my husband and I slept on the couch while my mom and boyfriend took the bedroom. It was interesting because even though they were older than us, they had known each other for a shorter amount of time and were still learning a lot about each other whereas my husband and I are young but very used to each other’s company.

The holidays can put stress on any couple, married or not. After we got home from our vacation, we only had a short amount of time to prepare for Christmas. Since it was just us, we had to decided what kind of food to cook.  I didn’t think we had to go all out. I thought we could keep it simple since there was no one to impress. My husband saw it as an opportunity to practice. For Thanksgiving, he cooked a whole turkey and I made simple sides like Stovetop stuffing as a compromise. For Christmas, we got into an argument about whether or not to get a whole ham. I argued that at least with the turkey, we enjoy eating turkey so it did not seem like a waste. He argued that it was cheaper to get a whole ham and he could get more creative with the glaze. We ended up getting a smaller ham but he made more complicated side and desserts.

Even though we don’t always agree, I love making those kinds of decisions with him because I know we’re builiding the foundation for our future. As much as I miss our families back home, I liked having the opportunity to do things our way. We’ve spent plenty of Christmases together in the past, but this one was different. It’s different because we’re married and it’s different because we were on our own. We got our own tree for the first time since we’ve been together, we hung our own stockings, bought and cooked our own food. It was all up to us. Next year we’ll be in a new place and who knows what it will be like then. Because in the middle of all of this, my husband just got offered a job in a new city. We now have even more plans to make but I couldn’t be happier. We’re both ready and excited to start this new chapter in our lives.

The one bad thing will be leaving Epiphany. This job has given me so many opportunities that I would never have had anywhere else, the chance to write this blog included. I’m going to miss it very much. But this is what married life is all about. Making changes, growing and changing, and becoming stronger as a couple because of it.

 We love when our brides select an already gorgeous wedding gown and then make it their own (even more gorgeous) gown!  That’s just what Epiphany Bride, Lopa has done. 

Lopa chose her gown from the Justin Alexander Collection, style 8530. A lovely lace mermaid with a bateau neckline, sleeveless, and extended chapel train. The change of adding sleeves made a dramatic difference!

Lopa also selected a custom designed veil from the Epiphany veil collection. A cathedral, “mantilla” style trimmed in matching lace from her bridal gown. The final design of gown and veil, combined with a beautiful bride - absolutely stunning. 

Custom cathedral veil from Epiphany Bridal Boutique

Justin Alexander Style 8530 (original design without sleeves)

 Thank you Lopa for choosing Epiphany Boutique for your wedding gown! We enjoyed working with you and helping you create your gown vision.

Would you love to customize your wedding gown?  Contact us for a complimentary consultation to discuss your wedding at info@epiphany-boutique.com or call us at 831-626-7700.