Page 113 - South Mississippi Living - February, 2021

For brides, the biggest, most important decision in the wedding planning process is choosing the dress. Bridal and Formal Boutique & House of Tux in Gulfport has a
time-tested formula for making that selection process a pleasant experience.
Owner Adrian Holland has years
of experience ushering brides along the path of nding the perfect dress. “Most brides nd their gown at the rst appointment and don’t change their minds,” she says. “When you know what you want, you know what you want. However, if you need to look around, it’s always a good idea to do a price comparison.”
She believes that some boutiques and chains in ate pricing so they can o er a discount on gowns and tux rentals. She says that’s not the case at her shop. “Shopping at a boutique that o ers alterations is a bonus,” Holland said. “When you nd the one, it will need adjustments to make it t perfectly. Also, some seamstresses o er customizations. When our stylists are helping you try on dresses, they can help guide you and explain what can be done to each gown.”
She has tips for brides to prepare for wedding dress appointments. “First, choose two or three people whose opinions matter the most to you and bring them, not six or eight people. Gown shopping is already stressful enough; add too many opinions and it’s really going to be stressful.
“Second, do some research and bring photos of gowns you like. This is always helpful for your stylist to see what
direction you’re going.
“Third, have an open mind. Try on
things you think you would never wear. Most importantly, have fun!”
Holland’s shop is full of bridal gowns of every description and style. “A little bit of color is the trend now. Most designers are not using pure white anymore; cream and champagne
are preferred,” she said. “Moscato is popular and when used under lace, really makes the lace pop.”
The spacious shop, which also sells ball and prom gowns, is an elegant study in gray, black and white with enough texture to keep the décor interesting. The consulting rooms too are spacious and have that soothing color palette of the open spaces. Once a bride goes into a consulting room, she doesn’t have to leave. Everything she needs, including a tting room, is on hand.
Bridal and Formal Boutique & House of Tux was established in 1984 and
was purchased by Adrian and Chavus Holland in 2006. She had worked there for several years. The shop is a re ection of the owner’s personality. That means Bridal and Formal Boutique is a shop of calm and warm assurance that brides will be gently guided toward making happy decisions.
SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living | www.smliving.net
February 2021 | 113
Bridal and Formal Boutique & House of Tux
1720 Pass Road, Gulfport 228.868.2037 www.bridalformalboutique.com