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Dress Shopping

The Journey to the Perfect Gown

The Journey to the Perfect Gown: A Bride's Guide to Preparation

Planning a wedding is undoubtedly one of the most exciting times in a person’s life, and the search for the perfect wedding gown is a pivotal part of this journey. However, the importance of being prepared physically, mentally, and emotionally during this process cannot be overstated. Here’s a guide from a bride’s perspective on navigating the dress shopping experience seamlessly.

  1. Choose the Right Boutiques: Selecting the right bridal boutiques is crucial. Look for establishments with a diverse range of styles that align with your preferences. Read reviews, seek recommendations, and consider the overall experience other brides have had at the boutique. This will ensure that your journey to finding the perfect gown is a positive and enjoyable one.
  2. Do Your Research: Before stepping into any bridal boutique, arm yourself with knowledge. Explore various bridal magazines, websites, and social media platforms to gather inspiration and identify your preferred styles. Understanding what you like and dislike will streamline the selection process and help you communicate your vision effectively.
  3. Trust Your Stylist: Research will prepare you but you must be open to finding the gown that speaks to you so you must also trust your bridal stylist. These professionals have extensive experience and expertise in helping brides find their dream gowns. This is why choosing the right boutiques is so important. No bride wants to be pushed into a gown they don’t love. Choose the boutiques that will take care of you and you well-being so that you can be open to their suggestions and trust them to take care of you. If you can communicate openly about your preferences and trust their input this will ensure a collaborative and fruitful relationship.
  4. Be Physically Prepared: Ensure you’re physically prepared for the dress-shopping experience. Wear appropriate skin tone undergarments and have fresh hair and makeup. Nothing extravagant if that’s not you, but you do want to get a general idea of what you will look like on the day of your wedding so zero makeup and a messy bun might not represent your look as best as it could.
  5. Mentally and Emotionally Ready: Dress shopping can be an emotional rollercoaster, and it’s crucial to be mentally prepared for the journey. Embrace the excitement, but also be open to the range of emotions that may arise. This process is about finding a gown that not only looks beautiful but also makes you feel confident and radiant. In short – you need to feel like a ‘bride’ whatever that is for you.
  6. Bring the Right People: Select a small, trusted group to accompany you on your dress-shopping adventure. While the opinions of loved ones matter, it’s essential to have a supportive and understanding entourage. Brief them beforehand on your preferences and the emotional significance of the decision, ensuring they provide constructive feedback and encouragement. And above all, make sure they know it’s your decision and they are there to support you.
  7. Embrace the Emotions: A wedding is a celebration of love, and emotions are an integral part of this experience. Don’t shy away from expressing your feelings during the dress selection process. It’s your day, and choosing a gown that resonates with your emotions is a beautiful part of the journey.

In conclusion, preparing physically, mentally, and emotionally for the wedding gown search is key to a successful and enjoyable experience. Trust in the process, surround yourself with supportive individuals and allow yourself to feel the full range of emotions that come with finding the gown that will make you feel like the radiant bride you are meant to be.

We’re here to accompany you every step of the way on this journey!

Discover our wedding dresses!

Book Your Appointment Here!

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Dress Shopping

Finding the Perfect Fit

Finding the Perfect Fit: Navigating Wedding Gown Shopping with Loved Ones in Ottawa

Planning a wedding is a journey filled with excitement, and one of the most cherished moments is undoubtedly finding the perfect wedding gown. At our Ottawa boutique, we understand that this experience is not just about the dress but also about the people you bring along for the ride. Our bridal team will work with you to help find a dress that highlights your personality, enhances your beauty, and lets you shine with confidence on your special day.

Size-Inclusive Selections

Embarking on the quest for the ideal wedding gown can be both thrilling and overwhelming. Especially when you find out that throughout the wedding industry, gown sizing is typically 2 sizes above what you would normally wear. Our boutique takes pride in offering a diverse and size-inclusive range of dresses, ensuring that every bride finds a gown that makes them feel absolutely stunning, regardless of their size or shape. We believe that beauty comes in all sizes, and our curated collection reflects this commitment to inclusivity.

Body Positivity Celebration

In a world that often imposes unrealistic standards of beauty, our wedding gown boutique is a sanctuary of body positivity. We encourage brides to embrace their unique beauty and celebrate their individuality. Our expert stylists are dedicated to creating an environment where brides can feel confident and empowered throughout the entire dress selection process. This goes well beyond what number is written on the tag. Your wedding is a representation of you and the love you and your partner share. We firmly believe that we can create a safe space for you to feel your most beautiful, where there is no place for negativity, only positivity.

Choosing Your Support Team

Selecting the right people to accompany you to your wedding gown appointment is a decision not to be taken lightly. Your support team plays a crucial role in enhancing your experience and making it truly memorable. Consider bringing individuals who know you well, understand your style, and, most importantly, support your vision for your big day. Just remember that it’s up to you to communicate your vision. You will spend hours looking up gowns and picturing what you will wear on your wedding day but your party likely will not. Think of it as a news briefing ahead of your appointment to let them know visually and verbally what you have in mind. This way it will save the heartache of falling in love with a gown and someone mentioning it’s not what they would choose.

The Role of Loved Ones

Loved ones bring an invaluable perspective to the wedding gown shopping experience. Whether it’s your closest friends, family members, or a mix of both, their insights and encouragement can make the process more enjoyable and meaningful. Their emotional support helps create an atmosphere that goes beyond the dress itself, turning the appointment into a shared journey filled with joy and laughter. To be fully ready ahead of time just follow the step above so they are properly prepared to support you the way you need. Make sure they know what you’re looking for and that you are looking for constructive input, but at the end of the day it’s your vision, no one else’s.

Cherishing the Moments

At Sinders Bridal House, in both our Ottawa boutique and our Peterborough boutique, we understand that finding the perfect wedding gown is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s not just about the fabric, the cut, or the embellishments; it’s about the emotions, the connections, and the memories you create along the way. We invite you to embrace the journey and make it a celebration of love, friendship, and the unique beauty that shines within you.

The wedding gown shopping experience is elevated when shared with the right people. Our boutiques are not just a place to find a dress; it’s a haven of inclusivity, body positivity, and celebration. As you step into our bridal haven, bring along those who uplift you, support your dreams, and make your journey toward finding the perfect gown an unforgettable chapter in your wedding story.

Discover our wedding dresses!

Book Your Appointment Here!

Categories
Dress Shopping

Finding the Perfect Wedding Gown in Ottawa

Navigating the Emotional Journey: Finding the Perfect Wedding Gown in Ottawa

In the enchanting realm of wedding preparations, few moments rival the emotional intensity of saying “yes” to your dress. As brides embark on the quest for the gown that encapsulates their dreams, it’s crucial to recognize that this journey can be both emotionally and physically taxing. Here at our Ottawa-based wedding gown boutique, we understand the significance of this experience and aim to guide brides through the process, ensuring that they are mentally prepared for the adventure that lies ahead.

The Emotional Rollercoaster

Shopping for a wedding gown is a profoundly emotional experience, often underestimated by many brides-to-be. The moment you step into the boutique, emotions can run high as the reality of your impending nuptials begins to sink in. From the joy of finding a gown that resonates with your vision to the occasional twinge of doubt, the emotional rollercoaster is all part of the journey.

Our advice? Embrace the emotions. Allow yourself to feel the excitement, the nerves, and even the occasional tears. The act of selecting a wedding gown goes beyond choosing fabric and style; it’s a declaration of your unique love story. Be prepared to let your emotions guide you toward the dress that speaks to your heart.

The Importance of Research

To make this emotional journey smoother, brides should invest time in thorough research before stepping into the world of wedding gown shopping. In Ottawa, where bridal boutiques abound, narrowing down choices is essential to prevent overwhelm.

Select two to three stores that align with your vibe and aesthetic preferences. Look through their collections, read reviews, and understand the designers they carry. This preparation not only streamlines the process but also ensures that you are entering boutiques that cater to your unique style, making the emotionally charged decision-making more focused.

Be Mentally Prepared to Say “Yes”

Unlike other shopping experiences, finding the perfect wedding gown often requires a prompt decision. Brides should be mentally prepared to say “yes” to the dress at any given moment. Gowns can be discontinued or take months to arrive, so being decisive is key.

Arrive with an open mind, ready to explore different styles and silhouettes. Trust the expertise of our stylists who are dedicated to helping you discover the gown that complements your vision. By being mentally prepared to make the decision, you can ensure a seamless and stress-free process.

Understanding Your Reaction: It’s Not Always an “Ah-Ha” Moment

One of the misconceptions about finding the perfect wedding gown is the expectation of a cinematic “ah-ha” moment when everything falls into place. While some brides do experience this instantaneous recognition, it’s essential to understand that everyone’s reaction is unique and deeply personal.

Consider your personality and decision-making style. Are you someone who tends to deliberate and weigh options carefully, or do you make decisions based on gut feelings? Knowing your natural inclinations can help manage expectations during the gown selection process.

For some brides, the moment of realization may be subtle—a quiet confidence or a serene sense of alignment. Others may feel an overwhelming surge of emotion, while some might need a moment to let the decision settle in. All these reactions are perfectly valid and reflective of your individuality.

Our stylists are trained to understand and respect the diverse ways brides express their connection to a gown. Feel free to communicate your feelings openly, whether it’s an exuberant proclamation or a quiet nod of certainty. Trust your instincts and allow yourself the freedom to react authentically, knowing that the perfect dress may speak to you in a language uniquely yours.

The Decision-Making Process

Wedding gown shopping often involves a series of decisions—each step contributing to the larger narrative of your bridal journey. Trust yourself, your journey to saying “yes” may not unfold in a single visit, and that’s perfectly okay. 

Understanding your reaction and decision-making style will empower you during this emotional journey, allowing you to savor the process and make choices that resonate with your authentic self. Embrace the uniqueness of your bridal experience, and when you find the gown that aligns with your vision, your reaction—however subtle or grand—will be a genuine reflection of your love story.

Shopping for your wedding gown is more than just a task on the wedding checklist; it’s an emotional journey that requires mental preparation. In Ottawa, where bridal dreams come to life, take the time to research and select boutiques that resonate with your style. Embrace the emotional rollercoaster, and when you find the gown that speaks to your heart, be ready to say “yes” and embark on the next chapter of your beautiful love story.

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Advice Dress Shopping News Trends Wedding Dresses Wedding Planning

Involving bridesmaids

Involving bridesmaids

When it comes to a wedding, your bridesmaids are your support system, your confidants, and your best friends. They have been by your side throughout the planning process, and they will be there on your big day. Including your bridesmaids in your wedding planning can not only be helpful but also fun and meaningful. Here are some tips for involving your bridesmaids in your wedding planning.

  1. Be clear about expectations: When you ask your bridesmaids to be a part of your wedding, make sure to clearly communicate your expectations. Let them know what you expect of them, what their responsibilities will be, and how much involvement you are looking for. Be open to their feedback and suggestions, but also make sure to establish boundaries.
  2. Give them specific tasks: If you have specific tasks you need help with, delegate them to your bridesmaids. This can include anything from helping with DIY projects to addressing invitations. Giving your bridesmaids specific tasks can make them feel more involved and invested in the planning process.
  3. Ask for their opinions: Your bridesmaids are your closest friends, and they know you well. Ask for their opinions on everything from your wedding colors to your centerpieces. Their input can be valuable, and it can also make them feel like they are contributing to your special day.
  4. Plan fun events: Planning a wedding can be stressful, so make sure to plan some fun events with your bridesmaids. This can include things like dress shopping, spa days, or a night out on the town. These events can help build camaraderie and make the planning process more enjoyable.

When it comes to choosing your wedding gown, it’s important to involve your family and bridesmaids while still making your own decision. Here are some tips to help you navigate this process:

  1. Do your research: Before you start shopping for your wedding gown, do your research. Look at different styles, fabrics, and designers so you have a good idea of what you like and what you don’t like. This will help you make a more informed decision.
  2. Bring your family and bridesmaids to appointments: When you go wedding gown shopping, it’s a good idea to bring your family and bridesmaids with you. This can help you get feedback and opinions, but make sure to establish boundaries beforehand. Let them know that while you value their input, the final decision will be yours.
  3. Take your time: Don’t rush into a decision when it comes to choosing your wedding gown. Make sure you have a good rapport with our bridal stylist, and can trust the boutique you’re creating a relationship with, you should be able to rely on them for the entirety of your engagement. This will ensure that you find the perfect dress that makes you feel confident and beautiful.
  4. Trust your instincts: Ultimately, the decision of which wedding gown to choose is yours. Trust your instincts and choose a gown that makes you feel amazing. Don’t let the opinions of others sway you if you know in your heart that a certain dress is the one for you.

Involving your bridesmaids in your wedding planning and choosing your wedding gown can be a fun and rewarding experience. Everyone’s goal should be to make sure you love your gown and feel supported in your decision. Remember to communicate clearly, delegate tasks, ask for opinions, plan fun events, and ultimately trust your instincts.

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Advice Dress Shopping News Wedding Dresses

Sinders Bridal House Peterborough – surpassing expectations

Sinders Bridal House Peterborough – surpassing expectations

Finding the perfect wedding gown is one of the most important parts of the wedding planning process. It’s a moment that many brides have been dreaming of since they were young. And for brides in the Peterborough and greater Toronto area, there’s one bridal shop that has been surpassing all expectations in terms of the experience, knowledge of stylists, and quality of gowns: Sinders Bridal House – Peterborough.

Located in the heart of downtown Peterborough, Sinders Bridal House has become the go-to destination for brides looking for a personalized and memorable shopping experience. From the moment you step into the store, you’re greeted with warmth and enthusiasm from the staff. They truly care about making your wedding gown dreams a reality.

One of the things that sets Sinders apart is the level of knowledge and expertise of their stylists. They have a team of experienced and talented stylists who are dedicated to helping brides find their perfect dress. These stylists have an in-depth knowledge of bridal fashion and can guide brides through the different styles, fabrics, and designs available. They also take the time to understand each bride’s unique style and preferences to ensure they find the dress that’s right for them.

Sinders also has a wide selection of gowns from some of the top designers in the industry. They have options for every bride, whether you’re looking for something traditional, modern, or unique. And the quality of the gowns is unparalleled. Each dress is made with attention to detail and craftsmanship that ensures it will look stunning on your wedding day. No matter what size or style, you will know that you’re taken care of and allowed to be beautiful just the way you are.

But it’s not just the gowns that make Sinders special. It’s the overall experience that they provide. They understand that finding your dream dress is a special moment, and they go above and beyond to make it unforgettable. From the personalized attention to the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, every aspect of the shopping experience is designed to make brides feel like they are the most important person in that room.

Sinders Bridal House has truly surpassed all expectations in their area for the experience you expect when choosing your wedding gown.  They’re a true gem in the Peterborough community and a must-visit for any bride looking for the perfect wedding dress.

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Advice Dress Shopping News Wedding Planning

Wedding Planning Timelines

Letters to the newly engaged bride.

Congratulations on your engagement! Such an exciting time and there can be so many questions. Not to worry, we’ve been helping brides find their wedding gowns, and have been involved in weddings for over 20 years. We’re here to answer all the questions you have – even if it isn’t related to bridal gowns!

Sinders Bridal House has been in it’s Ottawa, Ontario location since 1987 and over the years we have had the pleasure of working with so many wedding professionals. It’s common for us, once the wedding season is over, to get together, lean into our creative sides, and work on a styled shoot. This gives us the opportunity to meet new people in our industry, but it also lets us share beautiful pictures with our followers, all created from our own imaginations.

What should my first step be?

Often from talking with our brides we hear that the first step is picking your venue. This has split recently considering post-pandemic weddings have branched out to include all sorts of different venues. If you plan to use a popular venue, if you really want to get married on a peak day like a Saturday or Sunday, or if you have one specific date in mind that absolutely has to be your wedding day. Then you should expect at least a year wait before your wedding can happen and the venue will need to be the first thing you plan because that will be your main starting point.

If you’re open to alternate solutions, or always loved the idea of getting married in your own backyard, then the venue will not likely be your biggest time constraint. At this point, you already have a partially formed idea of where you plan to have your wedding so you know the vibe you’re aiming for. This means your timelines might be more restricted by which piece is more important to your wedding day – wedding photographer, florist, or entertainment. And you can move forward even with separate steps even if you don’t have an exact date booked.

Secondary first steps…

We believe that the most important pieces of your wedding day – other than you and your fiancée(e)! – are the wedding photographer and your wedding gown. After all, those are the pieces that will create your memories that you will see hanging on your walls or posted on your social media for the rest of your life. Always read reviews when choosing your wedding photographer, but even more so, look through their portfolio to make sure that they match the look you want to have in your memories. Each photographer has a certain way they capture their images and a certain colour spectrum they work within. Are you looking for crisp colourful photos? Or what about black and white? Or blown out, or editorial style, or a bigger emphasis on candids? Always do your research on the photographers in your area, find a few in your style, then make an appointment to meet them. Honestly, they want to know that you will be a match personally just as much as you do. You both want to be sure that you’re on the same page from day one, so take this one seriously and you’ll love the visual memories you come away with.

Florists have busier seasons like all wedding professionals, but they also work within the constraints of which flowers and greenery are available at any given season. If you have your heart set on a specific flower or a certain colour scheme then it’s best to get input from the experts in this field so that you can book your wedding day within the correct time frame.

Entertainment. Meaning anything from a DJ to a live band to aerialists. This can be a pivotal part of your wedding day, or something that is extremely special to you as a couple. The more particular you get the more it will impact your timeline so find out when they are available early on before booking other professionals.

How finding your wedding dress fits into the timeline you have available.

When a bride asks us about timelines the simplest answer is that we love to be able to order your gown 9-12 months ahead of your wedding day. This gives us room to breathe in the delivery process, as well as several months on the end for alterations to your wedding gown. Though that is the dream timing for us, we always have to mention that whatever timeline you have is the ideal timeline to find a gown. The shortest timeline we have ever worked with is one week. No, I’m not pulling your leg. We look at it as ‘where there’s a will, there’s a way’. Thankfully we also work with some incredible designers who have helped us out by working their magic to get a bride her gown on an impossible timeline. These are more stressful, not just for us, but for you (our bride) as well. We are nothing but grateful to the brides who place absolute trust in us in these situations. But please give as much time as you can to order your gown so that you know this vital piece is taken care of and will not be the cause of extra stress leading up to your wedding.

In the end, the best place to start is the part of your wedding that is the most important to you. Take some time to picture what you want your day to look like. Picture you in your gown, your groom in his suit, or your bride in her gown/suit. Picture your surroundings, and picture the overall plan of what you and your guests will do throughout the day or evening. Then discuss with your partner which aspects are the most important for both of you. From there you’ll have a short list of things to focus on – a starting point.

Good luck and remember. If you have questions or are looking for suggestions we love to help! It’s an honour for us to be involved in your wedding day and we love to share our knowledge and experience with our brides!

Categories
Dress Shopping News

Why Peterborough?

Why Peterborough?

Since finalizing our decision in the summer of 2022 this has been one of the most asked questions about our second shop ‘Sinders Bridal House Peterborough’. Our current followers along with the residents of Peterborough all want to know – why did we choose to open our second bridal shop in this particular town. Why was this the next place in our adventure that we would choose to help brides find their wedding dress. It’s not one simple answer so let me elaborate on a few of our personal reasons along with those based in the needs of our industry.

Our flagship store, is located just outside of Ottawa in a small town called Carleton Place. This town is our home, it’s where we grew up, and where we are currently raising our families. Believe me when I say, our shop, our business, Sinders Bridal as a whole, it is a part of our family. We honestly look at it as one of our children after having learned from it and watched it grow the way we have. While the town of Carleton Place is fairly small (growing but still small!) it has always had this beautiful hometown feel. That feel you find in a small town where the residents all know each other and we genuinely realize the benefits of living close to, but just outside of, a city. A love for the outdoors that you can’t explain but you know you’re lucky to have waterways and walking paths everywhere you look. A long explanation to say that this was one of the biggest deciding factors. The town of Peterborough is obviously much larger, but they have managed to keep the similar feel of a small town. In the downtown core on George Street North where Sinders Bridal House Peterborough has made it’s home we’ve been so warmly welcomed by our neighbours. We’re surrounded by some incredible restaurants and coffee shops, and it’s incredible when we go into their shop how much they’ve been following our progress when renovating and how we’re doing now that we’re open.

If you haven’t seen our building, or if you’re not following on social media yet (you should!) then you might not know we have a slight obsession with antique buildings. Our flagship shop has always and will always be in a Victorian home, complete with beautiful heritage features. Major plus is the privacy this gives each of our brides since every single bride has her own change room and her own viewing room. Complete privacy even on a busy day. These were extremely important factors for us to find in a second building because to us it’s a part of who we are, the quirks of the building and the love of a private experience. It took time, almost a year before we felt we were ready and had found the right location. But come on – amazing heritage building, more windows than walls, bright, welcoming, beautiful. It took some work because it didn’t come with the privacy we wanted, but we’re nothing if not committed to a vision! Build some walls, lots of paint, and help from a local window washer, we couldn’t be more proud of our second home.

Now, I have to admit, I had a previous bias. Having the town feel a bit like home was one of the reasons I chose to attend Sir Sanford Fleming College Peterborough campus many years ago. I wasn’t one to leave home easily so that similarity put me at ease for my first move into the real world of college and semi-adult life. Many years later as a business owner considering a second location, familiarity had a lot to do with the end result from a personal perspective. From a business perspective… the proximity to the Greater Toronto Area, the pandemic creating growth in smaller towns, a warm welcome from a current bridal shop who wanted to retire. It’s like the answer was staring us in the face. Not to say it was easy, rarely are business decisions ‘easy’ but wait for those click moments where everything seems to fit into place and it’s like you were working toward this all along, you just didn’t now it yet.

Remember when I mentioned the amount of learning we’ve done since entering the business world? I like to think it gave us a great understanding of what would help Sinders Bridal House Peterborough become a huge success. We never hide the fact that our entire goal is to reach as many brides as possible, to create beauty and love, and most of all body positivity. We could not be happier to have the opportunity to give our kind of service – the Sinders Experience – to brides in the Peterborough area. And the feedback we’ve had from our brides so far has been incredible to hear.

We hope to see you soon, and if you aren’t looking for a wedding gown of your own make sure you pass along our name to someone who is!

Why Peterborough?

Since finalizing our decision in the summer of 2022 this has been one of the most asked questions about our second shop ‘Sinders Bridal House Peterborough’. Our current followers along with the residents of Peterborough all want to know – why did we choose to open our second bridal shop in this particular town. Why was this the next place in our adventure that we would choose to help brides find their wedding dress. It’s not one simple answer so let me elaborate on a few of our personal reasons along with those based in the needs of our industry.

Our flagship store, is located just outside of Ottawa in a small town called Carleton Place. This town is our home, it’s where we grew up, and where we are currently raising our families. Believe me when I say, our shop, our business, Sinders Bridal as a whole, it is a part of our family. We honestly look at it as one of our children after having learned from it and watched it grow the way we have. While the town of Carleton Place is fairly small (growing but still small!) it has always had this beautiful hometown feel. That feel you find in a small town where the residents all know each other and we genuinely realize the benefits of living close to, but just outside of, a city. A love for the outdoors that you can’t explain but you know you’re lucky to have waterways and walking paths everywhere you look. A long explanation to say that this was one of the biggest deciding factors. The town of Peterborough is obviously much larger, but they have managed to keep the similar feel of a small town. In the downtown core on George Street North where Sinders Bridal House Peterborough has made it’s home we’ve been so warmly welcomed by our neighbours. We’re surrounded by some incredible restaurants and coffee shops, and it’s incredible when we go into their shop how much they’ve been following our progress when renovating and how we’re doing now that we’re open.

If you haven’t seen our building, or if you’re not following on social media yet (you should!) then you might not know we have a slight obsession with antique buildings. Our flagship shop has always and will always be in a Victorian home, complete with beautiful heritage features. Major plus is the privacy this gives each of our brides since every single bride has her own change room and her own viewing room. Complete privacy even on a busy day. These were extremely important factors for us to find in a second building because to us it’s a part of who we are, the quirks of the building and the love of a private experience. It took time, almost a year before we felt we were ready and had found the right location. But come on – amazing heritage building, more windows than walls, bright, welcoming, beautiful. It took some work because it didn’t come with the privacy we wanted, but we’re nothing if not committed to a vision! Build some walls, lots of paint, and help from a local window washer, we couldn’t be more proud of our second home.

Now, I have to admit, I had a previous bias. Having the town feel a bit like home was one of the reasons I chose to attend Sir Sanford Fleming College Peterborough campus many years ago. I wasn’t one to leave home easily so that similarity put me at ease for my first move into the real world of college and semi-adult life. Many years later as a business owner considering a second location, familiarity had a lot to do with the end result from a personal perspective. From a business perspective… the proximity to the Greater Toronto Area, the pandemic creating growth in smaller towns, a warm welcome from a current bridal shop who wanted to retire. It’s like the answer was staring us in the face. Not to say it was easy, rarely are business decisions ‘easy’ but wait for those click moments where everything seems to fit into place and it’s like you were working toward this all along, you just didn’t now it yet.

Remember when I mentioned the amount of learning we’ve done since entering the business world? I like to think it gave us a great understanding of what would help Sinders Bridal House Peterborough become a huge success. We never hide the fact that our entire goal is to reach as many brides as possible, to create beauty and love, and most of all body positivity. We could not be happier to have the opportunity to give our kind of service – the Sinders Experience – to brides in the Peterborough area. And the feedback we’ve had from our brides so far has been incredible to hear.

We hope to see you soon, and if you aren’t looking for a wedding gown of your own make sure you pass along our name to someone who is!

Why Peterborough?

Since finalizing our decision in the summer of 2022 this has been one of the most asked questions about our second shop ‘Sinders Bridal House Peterborough’. Our current followers along with the residents of Peterborough all want to know – why did we choose to open our second bridal shop in this particular town. Why was this the next place in our adventure that we would choose to help brides find their wedding dress. It’s not one simple answer so let me elaborate on a few of our personal reasons along with those based in the needs of our industry.

Our flagship store, is located just outside of Ottawa in a small town called Carleton Place. This town is our home, it’s where we grew up, and where we are currently raising our families. Believe me when I say, our shop, our business, Sinders Bridal as a whole, it is a part of our family. We honestly look at it as one of our children after having learned from it and watched it grow the way we have. While the town of Carleton Place is fairly small (growing but still small!) it has always had this beautiful hometown feel. That feel you find in a small town where the residents all know each other and we genuinely realize the benefits of living close to, but just outside of, a city. A love for the outdoors that you can’t explain but you know you’re lucky to have waterways and walking paths everywhere you look. A long explanation to say that this was one of the biggest deciding factors. The town of Peterborough is obviously much larger, but they have managed to keep the similar feel of a small town. In the downtown core on George Street North where Sinders Bridal House Peterborough has made it’s home we’ve been so warmly welcomed by our neighbours. We’re surrounded by some incredible restaurants and coffee shops, and it’s incredible when we go into their shop how much they’ve been following our progress when renovating and how we’re doing now that we’re open.

If you haven’t seen our building, or if you’re not following on social media yet (you should!) then you might not know we have a slight obsession with antique buildings. Our flagship shop has always and will always be in a Victorian home, complete with beautiful heritage features. Major plus is the privacy this gives each of our brides since every single bride has her own change room and her own viewing room. Complete privacy even on a busy day. These were extremely important factors for us to find in a second building because to us it’s a part of who we are, the quirks of the building and the love of a private experience. It took time, almost a year before we felt we were ready and had found the right location. But come on – amazing heritage building, more windows than walls, bright, welcoming, beautiful. It took some work because it didn’t come with the privacy we wanted, but we’re nothing if not committed to a vision! Build some walls, lots of paint, and help from a local window washer, we couldn’t be more proud of our second home.

 

Now, I have to admit, I had a previous bias. Having the town feel a bit like home was one of the reasons I chose to attend Sir Sanford Fleming College Peterborough campus many years ago. I wasn’t one to leave home easily so that similarity put me at ease for my first move into the real world of college and semi-adult life. Many years later as a business owner considering a second location, familiarity had a lot to do with the end result from a personal perspective. From a business perspective… the proximity to the Greater Toronto Area, the pandemic creating growth in smaller towns, a warm welcome from a current bridal shop who wanted to retire. It’s like the answer was staring us in the face. Not to say it was easy, rarely are business decisions ‘easy’ but wait for those click moments where everything seems to fit into place and it’s like you were working toward this all along, you just didn’t now it yet.

 

Remember when I mentioned the amount of learning we’ve done since entering the business world? I like to think it gave us a great understanding of what would help Sinders Bridal House Peterborough become a huge success. We never hide the fact that our entire goal is to reach as many brides as possible, to create beauty and love, and most of all body positivity. We could not be happier to have the opportunity to give our kind of service – the Sinders Experience – to brides in the Peterborough area. And the feedback we’ve had from our brides so far has been incredible to hear.

 

We hope to see you soon, and if you aren’t looking for a wedding gown of your own make sure you pass along our name to someone who is!

Categories
Dress Shopping Trends

Celebrity Wedding Dresses vs Sinders Bridal: Who wore it better?

Following the recent wedding of Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton, we couldn’t help but serve up a segment of “Who wore it better?” Celebrity Wedding Dresses vs Sinders Bridal edition! 

Have you ever looked in the tabloids, spotted a gorgeous wedding dress and thought to yourself “where in the world can I find one for myself?!”. 

Don’t worry, you’re not alone! 

Whether you’re looking for that simple A-Line, an extravagant train or all out sparkle – we can have you twinning with any celebrity!

Stefani just recently tied the knot to Shelton on July 3rd, featuring a custom silk gown with a beautiful plunging neckline and tulle skirt designed by the one and only Vera Wang.

We took a deep dive into the vault to find these 7 beautiful celebrity wedding dresses worn by some of our favourite celebrities:

Before further ado, let’s get down to business!

Hailey Bieber 

 

Okay. We all love a good off-the-shoulder moment (am I right?). So, can we take a second to appreciate Hailey Bieber in her custom mermaid lace gown designed by Virgil Abloh, creative director of Off-White? This dress was nothing short of stunning, featuring a sweetheart neckline and beautiful lace long sleeves.

Our Sinders Bridal swap for this showstopper? Henrietta.

It might not have those delicate lace sleeves or signature Abloh beading, but this beaded Calla Blanche bestseller features the same body hugging silhouette that will be sure to make you shine on your wedding day. Plus, Henrietta’s elegant beaded lace comes with optional sheer sleeve details that make it a perfect swap to Hailey Bieber (née Baldwin)’s custom gown!

 

Sofía Vergara

This might not have been the only dress Sofía Vergara wore on her luxurious wedding weekend; she actually chose a number of beautiful dresses throughout her weekend nuptials. However, her custom Zuhair Murad Couture gown was certainly the star of the show in our books! The Modern Family star married Joe Manganiello in 2015 with her lush fitted gown with Baroque-embroidered removable overskirt. This extravagant gown was grandiose while still providing the perfect compliment to Vergara’s figure.

This was a tough one but for Sofía Vergara, Sinders Bridal chose Essense of Australia D3044 with a stunning overskirt option to match. 

This Essense piece is a floral fit and flare, providing you that body hugging shape to feature your silhouette while the pairing overskirt assists with the glamour and extravagance a ballgown can provide. Featuring a modern strapless sweetheart neckline that feeds into a delicate plunge and lace appliqué, D3044 with the complimentary Essense of Australia overskirt will be the star of any show.

 

Ariana Grande 

Next up on our list of celebrity dress dreams, none other than Ariana Grande herself. Wearing an elegant and sophisticated Vera Wang, Ariana turned heads with an empire waist and plunging back line. Who said less can’t be more!? Paired with a shoulder length veil and a beautiful satin bow detail, it’s the perfect addition to the gown.

What is Sinders Bridal match for this? La Perle’s Gwen (LP 2018).

Just like Ariana, this soft ivory satin gown features a glam cowl neck and brilliant low back that is certainly a gorgeous moment. Not quite enough ‘oomph’ for you? Consider pairing this with a feature back necklace to elevate the look. We also matched Gwen with a shoulder length veil featuring delicate rhinestone appliques.

Gorgeous.

 

Debby Ryan 

Any other Disney Channel fans out there? Well, if there are then you may have already drooled over Debby Ryan in her Elie Saab ballgown. We certainly don’t blame you. Featuring an elegant off-the-shoulder boat neckline with a matching luxuriously long train, this 2019 spring collection was nothing short of beauty.

What is Sinders Bridal’s competition for this? Let us introduce you to Tesoro Viola.

This one of a kind ballgown, from designer Tesoro, offers a sweetheart neckline with a lavish Mikado that provides that similar jaw-dropping train for any bride looking for that beautiful princess feeling for their wedding day. We chose to pair Viola with a custom off-the-shoulder piece to give you the same stunning straps as Debby Ryan.

It’s certainly a win in our books!

 

Kate Middleton 

Calling all my royal family fans out there – I mean, who can forget the royal wedding of 2011? Even now, a decade later, we still can’t get over Kate Middleton’s designer Sarah Burton wedding dress. Middleton featured a nearly 9-foot train, V-neckline and luxurious long lace sleeves which moved flawlessly into the handmade lace bodice of the Victorian inspired gown. We can’t forget to mention the stunning Cartier halo tiara, borrowed by none other than Queen Elizabeth herself.

Sinders Bridal chose to compare this piece of royalty to White One’s Bradbury.

Everyone deserves to feel like a princess at least once in their life, am I right? If this is something you are looking for, consider this elegant Mikado princess cut dress. Matched with a beautiful V-neckline and those luxurious lace sleeves, Bradbury is an excellent choice for any bride looking for a bit more coverage on their wedding day.

 

Meghan Markle

Another royal family feature, but we couldn’t leave out this one. Anybody else in love with Meghan Markle’s second stunning wedding gown? Just hours after walking the aisle in her custom Givenchy gown, Markle submerged in this beautiful silk crepe high-neck gown designed by Stella McCartney. If you ask us, this was the perfect match of sophistication and romance.

The Sinders Bridal swap out for this? Hello Christina Wu 293#43.

This Christina Wu swap will provide the same fit-and-flare silhouette, with a halter neckline and natural waistband to allow a beautiful flow over your body. Much like the Stella McCartney, the smooth crepe of this dress is an elegant and romantic dress for any vision!

Serena Williams 

Tennis superstar Serena Williams finds herself as our final Sinders Bridal swap choice. She tied the knot with Reddit founder Alexis Ohanian in November 2017, choosing none other than Sarah Burton for her Alexander McQueen ballgown. The gown featured a dramatic strapless neckline and cinching waistline, finished with an absolute jaw-dropping cape. Serena fell in love with this silhouette, and let us tell you so did we.

So, what did Sinders Bridal choose to swap this with? Stella York 7051 with a beautiful custom cape to match.

This clean and simple Stella York ballgown provides flattering ruching in the Mikado bust, while maintaining the classic statement silhouette. The delicate tulle bottom is both light and airy – perfect for a wedding in any season! Looking for a little bit more drama like Serena? Consider adding additional layers underneath to create a fuller skirt! We paired this Stella York with a custom made cape, featuring lace overlay and stunning rhinestone detailing for the perfect pop of drama.

I mean, how many times can you wear a cape in your life, am I right?

—-

Anyways.

This was honestly too much fun for us, but we wanted to leave you with just a few things to remember:

  1. If you’re looking to mimic an iconic look, consider customization. These celebrities have likely had hours of work put into their gowns to help create their desired vision. Consider talking through your options with your stylist.
  2. Accessories are your friend! Whether it be sleeves, a custom cape, or one-of-a-kind veil, these elements can heighten the look of any gown.
  3. When you are gown shopping – have fun with it! Focusing on a particular detail can lead you down a rabbit-hole. Remember to look at the bigger picture, and how you feel in the dress. Besides, this day is all about YOU!

How did we do? Did we miss anyone you were thinking of?

Drop us a comment on who you think did it better!

We can’t wait for our next instalment of celebrity wedding dresses.

Love,

The Sinders Team

Categories
Dress Shopping Wedding Dresses

5 things to consider when shopping for your wedding dress at Sinders Bridal

If there was ONE thing we could say that appropriately describes our feelings over opening our doors for our brides looking for their wedding dress once again… it has to be relief!

There has been so much going on here at Sinders Bridal House since we last spoke! If you are a follower of our social channels (which we hope you are ), you will know that we are thrilled to welcome you back through our doors. We can’t wait to get you back on track finding your dream wedding dress! 

Whether you are recently engaged, in the middle of your planning or are getting an early start to your dream wedding we are here for it. And for you of course!

These past few months have been some of the most unpredictable and emotional moments for us all. So many of our brides have had to postpone their special days. Our hearts continue to be with all who have been impacted, but know we are hoping that nothing but clear skies lay ahead! 

However, one thing we have been able to learn from this roller coaster is this:

Love is not cancelled. 

So, can we take a quick moment to talk about how inspiring it has been to see so many of our brides in these romantic elopements and intimate micro-weddings?

Who said smaller weddings had to be any less than perfection?! 

Certainly not us.

Anyways, before we get too far ahead of ourselves on how much we love seeing our brides get married (SURPRISE we really really love it); we wanted to let you know how things at our bridal shop may have changed since introducing new COVID-19 friendly precautions. 

So here are 5 things to consider when returning to Sinders Bridal House for your wedding dress:

1. Do your wedding dress research

Congratulations! 

You’ve made it to the first step in your wedding planning journey and that is… research. Whether this is your favourite thing to do, or the dread of your existence, research is key in understanding how your vision might best come to life.  

Have you thought about what style of wedding dress you see yourself in on your big day? Is it a sexy figure-flattering mermaid silhouette, or perhaps that statement ballgown with a hint of drama? Either way, understanding these terms opens the communication with your stylist and will be a key element in making your dress appointment run smoothly.    

If you’re having trouble getting started, or simply haven’t had a chance to look just yet – do not fret! Our team of dedicated stylists have helped hundreds of past brides find their perfect dress and are confident you can join that list! 

A great first step is to send us an email or book your appointment online!

2. Ask questions

Okay, now let’s talk about questions for a second – because everybody has them! 

Are you unsure about what wedding dress style might suit you best? Have you seen a specific dress you like online and want to know if we carry something similar? Are you hoping to confirm timelines with us so that you can keep your perfect day on track? 

Cue the Sinders team. 

Our doors might not always be open, but our entire team at Sinders are trained, passionate and enthusiastic individuals that are here as your number one resource. Picture us as your ‘bridal besties’ if you may. We LOVE helping you bring your vision to life and can promise that our team has your best intentions in mind. Because let’s face it, we want your wedding day to flow as smooth as satin ;).

Whether it be in person, over the phone, in an email or simply through our DM’s, do not fear to lean on our team for help before coming in for your appointment. Oh and if you’re looking for inspiration, check out some of our previous blogs, like ‘Expert Wedding Dress Shopping Tips’.

                                Photo by Lauren McCormick Photography

3. Consider fewer visits to the shop

Now here is a relatively new ‘thing’ since adapting to new COVID-19 precautions at our bridal shop. Much like our recommended number of guests (which we will get to in a moment), you might consider limiting the number of appointments you make at our shop. And NO, it is not that we do not want you here with us… it’s quite the contrary. 

As our doors have unfortunately been closed for a large part of this year we have a growing list of brides that, like you, are looking for their wedding dress with us at Sinders. Unfortunately, this might require longer waiting times for those desired Saturday appointment times. So, making fewer visits to the bridal shop could get your dream wedding dress into your hands sooner!  

Don’t let that worry you as we still provide our same intimate and incredible service you’ve come to know from us. Plus, if you’ve followed me along this far you will know that the first two steps might very well prepare you to find ‘the gown’ on your first try! 

4. Trim your list when shopping for your wedding dress

Okay. We know this is a hard one… but with COVID-19 restrictions, our store capacity continues to be limited. That means to best serve each bride, we ask that guests attending with you be limited to a select few individuals. While this might not be the best news you’ve heard, we wanted to highlight a few positives that trimming your guest list might mean for your upcoming wedding dress appointment. 

By trimming your list of friends and family members attending your dress appointment with you, there will be fewer voices in the room with you. This will allow for your stylist to help you focus on the emotions that matter most… the brides! Plus, it also means less stress and confusion for you!

Ultimately, your wedding dress appointment should be about you guessed it… you. Now, we don’t want you to cut out everyone! We are still able to welcome your party virtually – and are happy to discuss how this will work with you before your appointment. 

We promise we will still offer the same white carpet experience to your entire party – whether it be in-person or virtually! 

5. Trust your bridal stylist

Finally, our last piece of advice is to trust your stylist

Many of the women here at Sinders have been with us for over a decade! They understand exactly how to find the perfect wedding dress for your big day! We can be your cheerleader, your confidant, or your bodyguard. But most importantly… we will be your fashionista behind you the entire way. 

Not only do we know the designers like the back of our hands, we work with these wedding dresses every day! We know which dresses will give you the best support, which will hug your curves, and which will make you SHINE. 

Your wedding dress should not only embody your vision but enhance your beauty, your confidence and your style. Letting YOU be the star on your wedding day. 

Phew, that’s it – simple right? 

Before we go, let us leave you with one more thought. 

Sinders is here to build confidence with a single piece of clothing – so we can all create a positive impact on our future. It’s what we do. It’s why we are here. Now more than ever, our team is here to help you feel good about yourself and your future day. 

So, if you have any questions regarding how your shopping experience might look different with us, contact us! Do not hesitate to call, email, or DM us – heck or give us a comment below!

Categories
Dress Shopping

Expert Wedding Dress Shopping Tips

Ever since childhood, we have loved weddings; the big white dress, the flowers, people in a celebratory mood; we were hooked. When the reality TV craze started, our PVR was set to tape them all: Say Yes to the Dress (Kleinfeld’sAtlantaBridesmaids, and Canada), I Found the GownMy Fair Wedding with David TuteraRich Bride/Groom Poor Bride/Groom, and Four Weddings to name just a few. So, when we started to think of where to start with our blog, we thought about what are some key wedding dress shopping tips.

So, we thought we would start with the basics, Wedding Dress Shopping Tips: Advice from Our Experts 

After speaking with many of our expert stylists, some who have been assisting brides for many years, we have got the scoop on what brides should know/do to have the best wedding dress shopping experience possible.

  1. Bring a small entourage

    Brides tend to want to bring a large number of people with them; parent(s), siblings, cousins, aunts, grandmas, friends etc. However, the more people you bring the more opinions there are going to be, good and bad. Trying to find a dress to please that many people is a near impossible task, especially if you are a people pleaser like me. You can likely end up getting stressed out and confused on which direction to go with so many different thoughts and opinions being shared.

    Appointments with small parties tend to be more successful. You are able to receive a couple other opinions, but won’t become overwhelmed trying to find a dress that you and 8 other people will love. With fewer people shopping for the dress, it means more people to surprise with your beautiful choice. If you really want to show those special people your dress you can bring a few of them to your fittings.
  2. Wear proper undergarments

    Remember to wear proper undergarments to your appointment. Many dresses are strapless (with the option of adding straps or sleeves if desired) so we recommend a strapless bra. Undergarments are mandatory when trying on dresses for hygienic reasons (experience has shown stylists that some brides need reminding of this). Stylist are not able to allow you to try on any dresses without underwear. And remember, the stylist will need to assist you in doing-up the dress. So, if you’re not comfortable sharing your “rear assets” with her, skip the thong that day.
  3. Have an idea of what you’re looking for, but be open-minded to suggestions

    It helps to have ideas of what you’re interested in at your appointment (the cut, fabric, lace/no lace, bling/no bling, etc.). So, do some research before you come to your appointment. And, don’t be afraid to show your stylist some pictures of what you like. Just remember that pictures in magazines are photo-shopped and not always 100% realistic. We have links to all the designers we carry on our website. Interested in a specific style? Call or email Sinders to inquire about it!

    While having an idea of what you’re interested in is helpful, you should still come with an open mind to try other styles. Your stylist spends her days putting women into dresses; she knows how to read you, find out what you like, and what will work with your body type. Listening to the stylist’s suggestions can really surprise you. All our stylists have had countless brides come in with one idea and yet purchased something completely different.
  4. Shop early enough, but not too early

    Shopping for a wedding dress is not the same as shopping for any other dress. Unless you’re purchasing your gown off the rack, you will just be trying on samples at the store. Then the store will order your choice, in your size, from the designer.  Depending on the designer and time of year, dresses can take up to 9 months to be shipped to the bridal shop. It is important to keep this in mind to have the widest selection available to you.

    Shopping too early for your dress can also be a problem. Purchasing your dress with over a year before your wedding day may result in buyer’s regret. Designers usually release two collections per year. Between your purchase date and your big day current wedding dress styles may change, and you may discover a dress you love more than the one you purchased.
  5. Stay within budget

    Wedding dresses come in a large range of prices from the higher hundreds to tens of thousands. It’s so easy to walk into a store and see many dresses you like without considering the price.  Before coming to your appointment you should know what you (or whoever is paying for the dress) are able and willing to spend. Tell your stylist what your budget is at the beginning of the appointment. It is a big mistake to try on a dress that is above your budget. Especially if you’re not willing to spend the extra money. If you end up falling in love with the dress but can’t afford it you will end up comparing all the other dresses to it. And, warning, it’s very unlikely any of them will be able to match those feelings. There are beautiful dresses for any budget, our stylists can show you.
  6. Don’t try on too many dresses

    Wanting to see all your options, and continuing to play “dress up” can make you want to try on the hundreds of options available. However, this will likely result in you becoming confused on what you like, not knowing which dress is your dress, and having to settle on one you may regret. Most brides try on an average of 4-7 dresses. To prevent you from becoming confused, you should plan to try no more than approximately 10 gowns.
  7. Don’t worry about the size of the dress

    Bridal sizing runs smaller than street sizing. So, you will likely end up with a dress size larger than your regularly wear. Don’t worry about this, it’s just a number and it doesn’t define you. You will look better and enjoy your day much more if you’re in a dress that fits properly and you’re comfortable in! Don’t try to squeeze into a dress you will be pulling at all day. Especially because it’s a smaller size (no one needs to know the size of your dress anyway).
  8. You don’t have to cry

    Lots of brides have the idea that they will cry when they find “the dress”. While this can happen, it doesn’t always, and it’s not a requirement. Not all brides have an outward display of emotion, and that is perfectly acceptable. When you have found “the dress” you’ll know, no matter what your reaction is.

So there they are; the top tips from Sinders expert bridal stylist so you can have the best wedding dress shopping experience possible.

If you have any other questions regarding wedding dress shopping, please let us know. We’ll find the answer for you!

Don’t forget to book your appointment to find your perfect dress with us. Here at Sinders, we focus on providing the best customer service, so you can have the best experience finding your dress.