19 Philly-Area Bridal Salons Where You Can Find Your Dream Wedding Dress

Mari Mi Bridal. Photograph by Pictures by Todd.

You’ve got the fiancé(e). You’ve got the ring. Next up: the dress. From Center City to the Main Line and South Jersey, the Philadelphia area is brimming with beautiful bridal salons filled with beautiful dresses — and knowledgeable, helpful staff who really care about finding you “the one” when it comes to your gown. (And when you do, some of them will even tear up right there with your mom!) Not sure where to start? We are. Right here.

Read on to see 19 of our favorite bridal salons, then head to our wedding vendor directory to explore even more awesome local wedding vendors to help you plan your Big Day.

Bridal Shops in Philadelphia

Carolyn Verdi Boutique
1746 East Passyunk Avenue, 215-925-2997 

From the owner Carolyn Verdi: Carolyn Verdi Boutique offers off the rack wedding gowns by some of the top designers in the industry — meaning, major discounts. According to Verdi,”  I allow about an hour and a half per appointment and can only take one appointment at a time,” so the focus will be entirely on finding the perfect dress for you.
Find designers like: Pronovias, Mori Lee, Justin Alexander, Essence of Australia. Appointment only; seamstress will be recommended.
Tip: Verdi typically advises that: “this not be the first place to come, since there is only one of a dress and  you’ll be buying it right off the rack.”  “It is smart to have gone to a couple of places before coming here,” she says, “it’s not the place to play around.” Come ready to buy because the dress you fall in love with may not be here if you wait a few days.

Lovely Bride 
237 Market Street, Old City, 215- 627-1800 

From owner Ivy Solomon: According to Solomon, Lovely is a “haven for stylish, playful and daring brides.” Her store has something for every sort of bride, from the bohemian to the refined but they all have one thing in common: “they can move mountains with their style,” says Solomon. The Lovely Bride staff likes it to be a personal experience and strive toward making it feel like you’re shopping with your BFF, not some stranger.
Find designers like: Rue de Seine, Carol Hannah, Made With Love, Kate McDonald, Watters, and Sarah Seven
Tip: Solomon suggests taking a look at the salon’s website before you stop in to shop, that way you get a feel for their vibe and the designers they offer — that way, the appointment can dig right into the nitty gritty of finding you your dream dress.

Mari Mi Bridal
1010 Pine Street, Society Hill, 484-350-8989

From owner Monet Imperato:  This just-opened luxury bridal salon aims to boast the ambiance of old-world Philadelphia. “We created an experiential space where brides can comfortably peruse gowns with friends and family,” says Imerato, “Expert included!” she exclaims. With her positive attitude and prime hospitality, Imperato brings over ten years of experience to her salon, having dressed over 300 brides over the years.
Find designers like: Mark Zunino, Rosa Clara, Enzoani, Badglry Mischka Bride. Appointment only; will suggest a seamstress.
Tip: From Imperato, herself: “Be mindful of season and venue. With so many bridal gown options available, narrow the search by eliminating styles or fabrics that don’t’ work for a specific season. A satin ballgown on the beach in August might not be the best choice.”

Nicole Miller
200 South Broad Street, Midtown, 215 -546 -5007, and 4249 Main Street, Manayunk, 215 -930-0307

From owner Mary Dougherty: “The Nicole Miller Philadelphia stores project a unique sense of character and individuality that gives shoppers a reason to keep coming back,” Dougherty says, adding that the NM bride is probably going to be one who loves fashion, doesn’t need all the bells and whistles, and is perhaps looking for an outdoor-wedding or destination gown at a price that doesn’t top $3,000.
Find designers like: Nicole Miller, Deepa Gurnani, Kenny Ma Designs. Appointments suggested; on-site alterations at the Center City location.
Tip: The shop’s Center City location is nestled in the Shops at the Bellevue right along Walnut Street, where you and your ladies can make a day of shopping. The Manayunk location has a section on its second floor dedicated to bridal.

Philadelphia Bridal Company
1218 Spruce Street, Washington Square West, 267-239-5443

From owner Ashley Corbett: Since she took over the location (which was formerly Philadelphia Bridal Company Bridal Loft) four years ago, Corbett has transformed the space into a “boutique bridal salon, focusing on one-on-one interactions with brides.” All of her staff has a background in fashion and event planning, while some are even certified wedding planners. Corbett’s salon aims to be your “one-stop shop” for all things bridal, including dressing the entire bridal party.
Find designers like: Atelier Pronovias, Pronovias, Riki Dalal, Tara Keely by Lazaro, Allure Bridals, Bari Jay Bridesmaids. Appointments only; on-site alterations.
Tip: Corbett suggests researching a designer or designer that interests you but, she warns “don’t feel pigeon-holed” by what you think you want. “There’s something for everyone, so be open-minded,” Corbett assures.

Philly Bride
304 Walnut Street, Old City, 215-670-9500

From owner Lynn Handel: “We offer a luxury experience like no other; our space is grand with 40 foot ceilings and natural lighting; we offer complimentary wine for the entire group.” At Handel’s salon you’ll find “styles from BOHO to Ballgown, covering all silhouettes and styles and, most importantly, always including international designers in our collections,” she says.
Find designers like: Martina Liana, Hayley Paige, Chic Nostalgia, Badgley Mischka. Appointments only; on-site alterations.
Tip: Handel suggests coming into the salon with an open mind, “we believe the bride and the dress magically find each other.” She also suggests no losing sight of this very important fact: “be true to your own opinion and how you personally feel in the dress — it’s YOUR day!”

The Wedding Factor
125 South Street, Society Hill, 267-861-0409

From the owner Kathy Hart: “Original, inspired, unforgettable” are the words Hart uses to describe a bride’s experience at her salon. “We strive to give each bride a one-of-a-kind experience as she plans for her special day,” Hart continues.
Find designers like: Berta, YolanCris, Elizabeth Fillmore, Stella York. Appointments encouraged; alterations on-site.
Tip: Hart’s major tip is this: “We always have a clearance rack of dresses as well as accessories available for immediate sale.” Additionally, she really stresses the importance of being “realistic about your body and what looks best on you” — not many people actually look like the brides on Pinterest, she reminds.

Unveiled 
200 West Washington Square, Suite 250, Philadelphia, 267-216-6339

From owner Frannie Erace: Providing brides the freedom and access to find the perfect gown is the goal at this second-story boutique. “I want to give the bride an exemplary experience, something that she is not used to,” Erace says. “I want to give her impeccable service.” She’s also all about the jewelry and accessories (including custom veils!), stocking brands from around the world.
Find designers like: Lazaro, Alvina Valenta, Ashley and Justin Bride, Chiritana Lucci, Ian Stewart. Private appointments only; they’ll recommend a seamstress.
Tip: Not only do you and your shopping party get the entire salon to yourselves for one and a half hours for your appointment — there’s a full-length runway coming out of the dressing room, so you can feel how the dress moves and see it from all angles.

Bridal Salons in the ‘Burbs

Bijou Bridal 
102 East Montgomery Avenue, Ardmore, 610-642-3888

From owner Julie Jou: Jou, who has a background in fashion and formalwear, gets that what gown you’ll wear on your wedding day is a huge decision. “We really want the bride to feel at home when she’s shopping. We want to be her friend, because we understand that this can be overwhelming,” she says. “It’s not every day you wear a wedding dress!”
Find designers like: Allure, Chic Nostalgia, Maggie Sottero, Stephen Yearick, YSA Makino, and for curvy brides, Julietta by Mori Lee. By appointment; alterations on-site
Tip: Give yourself some time here: The 10,000-square-foot-plus salon also carries bridesmaids’ dresses, eveningwear, mother-of-the-bride gowns and oodles of accessories.

Elizabeth Johns
46 St. James Place, Ardmore, 610-649-8100; 1099 Mount Kemble Avenue, Morristown, 973-425-0600

From owner Melinda Ladyzinski: After encountering lackluster and tired salons during her daughter’s gown hunt, Ladyzinski opened this salon with the goal of being a breath of fresh air for shopping brides, and creating a memorable experience for them. “The dresses are beautifully displayed, the consultants are very knowledgeable and patient, and we offer little swag bags, featuring champagne, or a crystal pen or even a garter, when you buy a gown,” she says. They’ll even offer you an image consultant to help you with outfits for your rehearsal dinner or honeymoon.
Find designers like: Carolina Herrera, Liancarlo, Romona Keveza, Mira Zwillinger. Appointments only; alterations on-site.
Tip: Ladyzinski believes you’ll get the most out of your shopping experience if you’ve done your homework before coming in. “I think brides do better when they know what they like, have seen a lot of dresses and know the price points,” she says. “But don’t come into any store with something in your mind and rigidly adhere to that. Come in with an open mind and let your consultant guide you.”

La Bella Moda
200 Fayette Street, Conshohocken, 610-825-6385

From owner Lena Pagano: Originally from Italy, Pagano studied fashion and always dreamed of opening a bridal salon — in 1981, when she came to America, she finally did. She carries gowns for ’maids, moms and flower girls, too, and always encourages brides to keep an open mind when they start their search.
Find designers like: Hayley Paige, Lazaro, Pronovias, Isabelle Armstrong, Eddy K ,Casablanca and Mikaella. Appointments only; alterations on-site.
Tip: Everyone on staff has a fashion degree from Philadelphia University, meaning they’re extremely knowledgeable when it comes to helping the bride in her choices of style, silhouette and fabric.

Nicole Bridal & Formal Shoppe 
261 Old York Road, Jenkintown, 215-886-2333

From owner Marina Albert: Albert’s mother, Nicole, opened the shop nearly 42 years ago, and now the duo work alongside each other, helping fashion-forward, modern brides find their dream gowns. “My mother and I are very hands-on, making sure you are completely satisfied,” Albert says. “Dress shopping should not be stressful — you already did the hard part of finding the groom!”
Find designers like: Claire Pettibone, Ian Stuart, Juile Vino, Rivini, Sareh Nouri. Appointments only; alterations on-site.
Tip: On top of seamstresses who can customize any gown for you by adding straps or creating sleeves, the salon offers day-of services: Marina will bring the gown to you on the morning of your wedding, dress you, hang around for photos, and then fluff your gown up just as you walk down the aisle.

Sabrina Ann Once Worn & Never Worn Bridal 
24 Ardmore Avenue, Ardmore, 610-642-6228

From owner Sabrina Sigler: When Sigler set out to open a high-end bridal consignment shop, she had a specific bride in mind: “We’re for the woman who likes quality but knows she doesn’t have to pay the higher ticket for it,” she says. “There is no sacrifice here.” Gowns are samples, or have been worn once or never at all; all of them are under two years old, and in both excellent condition and the current fashion. Sigler also thinks it’s important to let brides browse a bit on their own: “We’re not aggressive — we’re friendly, we’re shop-able.”
Find designers like: Inventory varies constantly, but you can often find popular styles from now-closed Pronovias, Maggie Sottero, Liancarlo and Hayley Paige. Browsing is welcome, but appointments are preferred for trying-on; they’ll recommend a seamstress.
Tip: Ask about their wedding-day coordination services, in which a staffer can be on hand the day-of to help with everything from fluffing your dress and assisting the bridesmaids to directing guests and any other bridal odds and ends.

The Wedding Shoppe 
503 West Lancaster Avenue, Wayne, 610-293-1299

From owner Pattie Lamantia: Her girl is the sophisticated, professional, metropolitan bride, she says — and she believes it’s the customer service as well as the selection that has made her business continue to grow. (She recommends a weekday appointment, especially for large groups, to avoid a packed house.) “My goal is to make the bride’s dream become a reality. We really care — it’s important to me that you are happy.”
Find designers like: Monique Lhuillier, Ines Di Santo, Inbal Dror, Le Sposa di Gio. Appointments suggested for weekdays, mandatory for weekends; on-site alterations.
Tip: While the salon is a one-stop shop for your Big Day look (you can get your veil, shoes, jewelry, headpiece, and mother of the bride dress here), Eagle Village Shops is full of other potential wedding vendors. While you’re here, check out Valley Forge Flowers, the Little House Shop, Brian M. Smaul Ltd. Jewelry, the Village Salon, and more.

The Wedding Suite at Nordstrom 
190 North Gulph Road, King of Prussia, 610-265-6111

From manager Samantha Barth: This well-loved department store has been in the bridal business for two years as it’s been growing a younger clientele, and it brings the same great customer service it’s known for to the “fashionable yet traditional” brides looking to find dresses here. “We are here to wow her,” says Barth, “to let her be carefree, have fun, and think outside the box.”
Find designers like: Vera Wang, Jenny Yoo, Nouvelle Amsale, Ines Di Santo, Hayley Paige and Lazaro. Appointments only; alterations on-site.
Tip: When you purchase a wedding dress, you get to work with a Nordstrom stylist free of charge. A Nordstrom Wedding stylist will help you put together your entire wedding-day look, and a Nordstrom personal stylist will help you with all of the rest like, the perfect strapless bra to your mother’s dress; she can also gather some fabulous new pieces for the honeymoon or rehearsal dinner.

Van Cleve
1604 East Lancaster Avenue, Paoli, 610-647-5055

From owner Deborah Phelps: “Whether you’re traditional, extravagant or destination, we have a dress for every bride,” she says. Her staff prides itself on being “knowledgeable, kind, caring , and are there to make your experience memorable,” Phelps says. Plus, you can score all of your accessories in the Van Cleve accessory salon which houses  jewelry , veils , jackets , shawls and handbags.
Find designers like: Amy Kuschel, Romona Keveza, Matthew Christopher, Sareh Nouri, Anna Maier, Pronovias. Appointments only; on-site alterations.
Tip: Bring all your ladies with you, as Van Cleve can outfit your bridesmaids and mothers of the bride and groom in a variety of trendy and well-known designers. Also, keep in mind that many of the dresses and gowns can be customized to fit your needs.

Bridal Salons in Jersey

Bridal Garden 
900 Route 70 West, Marlton, 856-988-8188

From owner Nancy Saccomanno: Saccomanno opened the shop nearly 28 years ago with the goal of becoming the premier bridal salon in Burlington County. “All of our consultants are seasoned veterans in the wedding biz, specializing in wedding designers and styles,” she says. “It allows us to give the bride exactly what she’s looking for. We have the best service.”
Find designers like: Amsale, Hayley Paige, Lazaro, Martina Liana, Watters. Appointments only; alterations on-site.
Tip: This is one of the few showroom bridal salons in the area; instead of you browsing, consultants bring gowns to you in a private dressing room. That said, Saccomanno recommends brides do their homework before their appointments when it comes to both style and budget. Additionally, in recent years, the salon has opened a plus-size department.

Country Way Bridal 
200 Kings Highway East, Haddonfield, 856-745-9005

From owner Yvonne Baird: Opening a bridal salon was a dream come true for Baird, and she prides herself on carrying a wide range of gowns when it comes to prices, body shapes and styles, to accommodate anything a bride might be seeking: “Elegant, sophisticated, glamorous, or sultry — we have it all.” They’ve also got veils, belts, headpieces and jewelry, plus mother-of-the-bride, bridesmaid dresses and flower-girl dresses.
Find designers like: Maggie Sottero, Hayley Paige, Kitty Chen and Enzoani. Appoinments preferred; alterations on-site.
Tip: Brides and their parties are invited to bring along champagne to their appointment, and because it is located along bustling and filled-with-shops Kings Highway East, you can make a day of your dress-shopping outing.

Jay West 
151 Kings Highway East, Haddonfield, 856-795-0424

From owner Sue Maslowski: Maslowski’s mother opened the shop 50 years ago, when the salon’s  pride in customer service and experience staff began serving all sorts of brides in the Philadelphia-area. While their focus used to second-time brides, the salon has evolved into a place for first-time and second-time brides, alike, to shop luxurious and on-trend bridal gowns.
Find designers like: Casablanca, Lillian West, Justin Alexander and Essense of Australia. Appointments preferred; alterations on-site.
Tip: This stretch of Kings Highway East is bustling with shops, restaurants and other wedding vendors, from registry and invitation boutiques to florists and photographers, so be sure to set aside time to stroll, browse and chat.

This article originally appeared in the fall/winter 2013 issue of Philadelphia Wedding and is an updated version originally published by Carrie Denny Whitcraft.

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