What is your favorite part about helping brides and working for Charlotte’s Weddings? How long have you worked here?
I’ve worked at Charlotte’s since December 2009. My favorite aspect of helping brides is that I get to meet them at one of the most exciting points in their lives. They’re planning their weddings and whether they’ve been dreaming about this day since they were six or never thought they’d ever get married, it’s a big moment that I get to help with! I love it when brides come into their appointments with enthusiasm, geared up to see what I have to show them and willing to try on anything I bring in the room.
Do you have a favorite moment/story from working at Charlotte’s?
I have a couple of favorite moments from working at Charlotte’s. One was an appointment with one girl, she’d been to two or three other stores and was tired of striking out over and over. The second dress we put on her, she lit up. Her mom and soon to be mother-in-law immediately yelled, “that’s so you!” On their way out, she said that she’d been dreading this appointment and ended up not only finding her gown, but also having a great time. My other favorite moment was a bride who’d just gotten engaged and was starting out on all her wedding planning. She was so happy to be in the store, trying on dresses. Every time I walked into the room, she went “ooh, I like those.” We found a dress that she loved and she started flirting with the dress on the hanger. When she winked at the dress and said, “Hey hot mama, how you doin’?” I totally lost it giggling. In both situations, I’m proud that I was able to help brides find gorgeous dresses and that they had a good time doing it. That’s what I’m here for!
What kind of advice would you give your brides about dress shopping?
The biggest advice I would give to brides is to listen to yourself. While it’s always good to bring your mom or a friend to bounce ideas of off and get a second opinion, ultimately you’re the one wearing it. Also, If you don’t have that moment “where you just know it’s THE dress,” don’t worry. That’s normal too, not everyone is able to make a decision that instantaneously. Don’t let anyone talk you into a style, shape, or fabric that you don’t love, or make you second guess yourself if you don’t immediately burst into tears. Trust your instincts and the way you feel in the dress.
What do you like to do when you aren’t working at Charlotte’s?
When I’m not working at Charlotte’s, I’m working on breaking into the Portland theatre world as an actor/dancer. I also love to read (huge book nerd), watch movies, go running, and play at the ocean. I drink too much coffee and eat too many french fries and ice cream. I enjoy getting to hang out with friends, and spend quality time with my husband and dog, Nestle.
