theonebridalsalon.com

Preserving Your Wedding Dress — Keeping the Story Beautiful

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 19:52:00 GMT

There’s a moment after the wedding when the bouquet fades and the gown rests quietly in its bag. The celebration has ended, but the dress still holds laughter, music, and light. It’s more than fabric now — it’s memory stitched into silk.

That’s why we believe in caring for it, not just storing it.

Why Preservation Matters

Every gown tells a story. Time, however, can be unkind to delicate fabrics. Invisible marks — a touch of champagne, a bit of makeup, or a hint of the dance floor — may seem harmless now but slowly change the fabric’s color and texture.

Preservation stops that quiet fading. It keeps your gown as radiant as the day you said I do.

How We Help

At The One Bridal Salon in Charlottesville, we partner with The Wedding Gown Preservation Company. Their century of expertise makes the process simple and safe.

Each gown is cleaned with gentle, organic solutions. Then it’s pressed and placed in an acid-free, museum-quality box that keeps it protected for years to come.

When you purchase a preservation kit from us, we’ll show you how to mark and pack your gown using the materials inside. Everything you need — shipping labels, tags, and instructions — comes in the kit. Once it’s sent, the preservation team handles the rest. They clean and package your gown before returning it to you in a beautiful keepsake box.

A Piece to Cherish

Preserving your wedding dress isn’t about perfection; it’s about gratitude. It’s saying thank you to the day that changed everything. It’s keeping a piece of that day within reach.

Years from now, when you open that box, the feeling will return — quiet, joyful, complete.

Your gown deserves a future as graceful as the day you wore it.
When you’re ready to preserve it, stop by the salon to purchase your preservation kit or reach out to us here to learn more about the process.

It’s a beautiful way to protect your story and keep it safe for generations.

Inside Your Bridal Appointment — What Makes The One Experience Different

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 08:26:00 GMT

There’s a certain quiet that fills the salon before an appointment begins. Gowns are straightened, pillows tidied, a soft song plays in the background. Everything settles into place — waiting for one very special moment to unfold.

When a bride walks through our door, it’s never about rushing or fitting her into a schedule. It’s about creating space. A private bridal appointment here in Charlottesville feels a little like taking a deep breath — calm, intentional, and full of anticipation.

One Bride at a Time

We host one appointment at a time because this story belongs entirely to you.
The room is yours, the mirrors are yours to twirl in, and every gown you try is chosen with your heart in mind.

There’s laughter, sometimes tears, and always a sense that the world has slowed down long enough for something beautiful to happen.

Curated with Care

Our collection is built with intention — a balance of artistry and emotion. Each gown is chosen for the way it moves, the way it catches the light, the way it makes a bride feel. From the structured beauty of classic silhouettes to the soft drape of modern romance, every designer we carry brings something distinct yet timeless to the rack.

We believe it’s not about having endless options — it’s about having gowns that speak differently to each heart. You don’t need a sea of dresses; you just need the one that feels like yours.

The Moment You Know

It might be a whisper. It might be a glance in the mirror that suddenly feels different.
Every “yes” sounds a little unique here — sometimes joyful, sometimes tearful, always genuine.

For us, those are the moments we hold gratitude for: the shared smiles, the soft gasps, the quiet realization that this is it.

Your bridal appointment at The One isn’t only about choosing a gown. It’s about feeling at ease, cared for, and celebrated. It’s about finding a piece of yourself reflected back in lace and silk and light.

We’re so grateful to be a small part of that story.

Schedule your private appointment when you’re ready — we’ll have everything waiting just for you.

Photos courtesy of Jen Fariello Photography

Wedding Dresses with Slits: Chic Statement or Practical Choice?

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 17:32:00 GMT

Why Brides Love Slit Wedding Dresses

Movement & Comfort
While a wedding dress with a slit might seem purely about style, it’s often a game changer in comfort. The extra freedom of movement makes it easier to walk, dance, and even navigate uneven outdoor terrain—something any bride who’s faced a long aisle or grassy reception space will appreciate.
A Touch of Personality
A slit instantly sets your dress apart, adding a playful, confident energy to your bridal look. It’s a subtle (or not-so-subtle) way to show off your shoes, hint at your personal style, or nod to the red carpet glam you’ve always admired.
Versatility for Any Wedding Style
From sleek satin columns to airy chiffon A-lines, slits can complement almost any silhouette. A dramatic front slit suits a chic city celebration, while a gentle side slit feels perfect for a breezy beach wedding.

Styling a Dress with a Slit

Show Off the Shoes – Your slit is an invitation to choose footwear worth showing off. Think embellished heels, bold color pops, or even sparkling ankle-wrap sandals.
Balance the Look – If your slit is high, consider a higher neckline or longer sleeves for an elegant balance.
Mind the Movement – Practice walking, sitting, and dancing during fittings to make sure you feel confident and comfortable.

Is a Slit Right for You?

A slit isn’t just a trend—it’s a detail that should fit your personality and comfort level. If you love the idea but feel nervous about showing too much, remember that slits can be tailored to different heights and placements. Your bridal stylist and seamstress can help create a look that feels just right for your big day.

Final Word: Whether you’re walking down the aisle of a grand cathedral or barefoot in the sand, a wedding dress with a slit lets you embrace a little drama without losing an ounce of elegance. It’s a confident, modern twist that just might make you feel like the most you version of yourself on your wedding day.

A Classic Charlottesville Celebration: Carly and Ben’s Wedding

Sat, 12 Jul 2025 16:57:00 GMT

Some weddings have a way of blending tradition and modern charm effortlessly—and this Charlottesville celebration did just that.

Set in the heart of the city, Carly and Ben began their wedding day with a timeless ceremony at the historic First United Methodist Church . With its soaring sanctuary, warm light filtering through stained glass, and echoes of heartfelt vows, it was the perfect place to say “I do” in a space that feels sacred, grounded, and filled with meaning.

But the celebration didn’t stop there.

After the ceremony, the newlyweds took to the iconic Downtown Mall , a beloved stretch of Cville life. With red brick underfoot and strings of café lights above, the couple strolled hand-in-hand as their photographer captured moments of joy, laughter, and the kind of just-married glow that is infectious.

As the sun dipped low, guests gathered at Bradbury , a modern event space tucked into the downtown scene. Sleek, stylish, and effortlessly cool, Bradbury offered a fresh contrast to the classic ceremony setting.

And while we’ll always love a Virginia vineyard wedding (hello, mountain views and wine country charm), there’s something undeniably magnetic about this downtown affair. This wedding radiated pure Charlottesville —from the historic ceremony to the urban photo ops, and a reception that felt like an elegant party.

This wedding was a love letter to Charlottesville—its beauty, its rhythm, and the way it holds space for both sacred tradition and laid-back modern style. The very reasons why we who live here, hold Charlottesville so dear.

Vendors to Love:

Venue: Charlottesville First United Methodist Church + The Bradbury
Photography: Eze Amos Photography
Florals: Hedge Fine Blooms
Hair: Demie – Elevate Salon
Makeup: Avenue 42 Salon
Dress: The One Bridal Salon – “Jory” by Pronovias
Alterations: Fariba Designs
Catering: Harvest Moon Catering
Cake: Cake Bloom

The Magic of Veils – A Guide to Wedding Veil Lengths

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 14:55:00 GMT

When it comes to choosing your wedding dress, the veil is an accessory that can transform your entire bridal look. Whether you’re aiming for something dramatic or more understated, veil lengths play a huge role in defining your style. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular wedding veil lengths and tips on how to choose the perfect one for your big day:

Birdcage Veil

A birdcage veil is a bold, vintage-inspired choice that typically covers only the face or reaches just below the chin. It’s perfect for brides who want a retro vibe or prefer a shorter veil for a more modern, quirky touch. Often paired with a sleek hairstyle, this veil offers a playful, edgy statement without overwhelming the dress.

Best For: Vintage, retro, or modern weddings, and brides who want to make a statement.

Fingertip Length Veil

The fingertip length veil falls to just about the fingertips, creating a classic and elegant look without trailing on the ground. It’s versatile, pairing well with both simple and more intricate wedding dresses. This veil is a popular choice because it strikes a balance between the dramatic and the subtle, offering enough length to feel bridal while still allowing you to move comfortably.

Best For: Brides who want a timeless and chic option, ideal for both casual and formal weddings.

Chapel Veil

The chapel veil is a stunning, floor-length veil that trails slightly behind you as you walk down the aisle. It adds a touch of romance and elegance, making it an excellent choice for traditional and formal weddings. The flowing silhouette complements almost any wedding dress, and it can be worn with a train to create a graceful, ethereal effect.

Best For: Brides seeking a traditional, formal look with a bit of drama, or those looking for a fairy-tale vibe.

If you want to make a grand entrance, the cathedral veil is the way to go. This dramatic veil extends several feet beyond the dress, creating a striking train effect as you walk down the aisle. It’s ideal for brides who want a truly show-stopping look and are planning a formal or grand wedding. The cathedral veil pairs beautifully with elaborate wedding gowns, giving the bride a royal, elegant appearance.

Best For: Brides looking for the ultimate dramatic effect, grand weddings, and those who want to feel like royalty on their special day.

Blusher Veil

A blusher veil is a short veil that can be worn over the face during the ceremony and then lifted once you reach your partner. This classic veil offers a hint of mystery and romance, making it perfect for brides who love traditional wedding elements. Whether you’re walking down the aisle with the veil covering your face or lifting it for the “big reveal,” the blusher adds a beautiful and emotional moment to your day.

Best For: Traditional brides who want to add a touch of mystery and romance to their wedding.

Elbow-Length Veil

The elbow-length veil is an elegant and understated option that falls just to the elbows. It’s a perfect balance between short and long veils, offering a soft, flowing look without being too overwhelming. This length pairs beautifully with almost any style of wedding dress, whether casual or formal, and it works well with a variety of hairstyles.

Best For: Brides who prefer a subtle, elegant look without the extra length, perfect for both casual and more formal weddings.

Choosing the Right Veil for You

The perfect veil is an extension of your bridal style, so take your time when deciding which length works best for you. Consider the formality of your wedding, the style of your dress, and the look you want to achieve. Whether you prefer a short and sweet veil or a dramatic, sweeping cathedral veil, the right choice will make your bridal look complete.

Now that you know the most popular veil lengths, which one is calling your name? Whatever you choose, make sure it reflects your personal style and adds that extra touch of magic to your special day! Click here to make an accessories appointment to find the right veil for you!

Things to Know before your Wedding Dress Appointment

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 16:10:00 GMT

You have found the one you want to spend the rest of your life with, the ring is on your finger, and your friends and family know. Everyone is excited, dreaming of the big day! At the center of that day will be you, the bride, wearing the dress that makes you feel like the most beautiful, confident version of yourself. What an important mission you are about to embark upon.

The great news is, at The One Bridal Salon, you do not have to take on this mission all by yourself. We are here to walk you through this journey. So, we will start by sharing what to expect during your bridal appointment.

When you arrive with your favorite people beside you, you are immediately our sole focus. We are interested to hear about your wedding day and all the details, as well as the vision you have for your day. Next, we will move on to talk about the dress. We will ask you about style preferences and silhouettes as well as the amount of detail, think lace, applique, and beading, you may or may not want. It is helpful to share photos of dresses that have caught your attention but do not despair if you have no idea. We are here to help you sort this out.

The Process

If this is your first appointment, we will try a bit of everything! Thinking you don’t want a strapless gown, most likely we will have you try one. Don’t want a fitted style, we will have you try one of those too. Since wedding gowns are such a unique garment, there is no way to tell ahead of time what will work on your body and what will not. Now, this is not to say that if you want your princess ballgown we will pull mostly fitted gowns. Absolutely not! We listen to you and your vision most of all.

The same is true if this is not your first appointment: we listen to you! We want to hear what you have learned already. Tell us what silhouette you prefer or if there is a neckline you really like. We want to support you on your journey to finding “the one”, which will always start with us taking the time to listen to you.

Once we have an idea of what you like and what is working for you, we will start pulling more dresses that are in line with the dresses you are liking. Think of it as a puzzle! We have found the frame, now we are filling in the center pieces.

A Few Words of Advice

There are a couple of pieces of advice we can share. The first is to keep an open mind throughout the process. Try to evaluate each dress as you are in it and try not to fall into the trap of “building a dress” by pulling pieces from different dresses and trying to put them together. When you do this, it can become difficult to match what you are wearing to the picture you are fusing together in your mind. Please do share your likes and dislikes of each dress, but stay present with the dress you have on .

The second piece of advice is the biggest! Just like love, you never know when “the one” is going to find you. So much of this experience is about feeling. What makes a truly beautiful bride doesn’t come down to whether your dress has beading or not. It’s not in the details. “The One” is the one that makes you FEEL like the most beautiful, confident, radiant bride you can be. While there is so much to think about while you are shopping for your wedding gown, be sure to keep checking in with how you feel throughout the process.

Be open to finding the one. We know, trying on dresses is so much fun and of course we think it is the best part of the wedding planning process (ok we may be biased on this point). Remember, when the right dress finds you, you have achieved what you set out to find! It is a moment of celebration that we love watching time and time again.

We can’t wait to have you in for your appointment with us and to be a part of this special journey you are on! Haven’t booked yet? Click HERE to schedule your appointment.

Beautiful Fall Wedding: Jen and Graham

Sun, 29 Dec 2024 19:30:00 GMT

We are finishing up our 2024 featured weddings with a wonderfully colorful and fun fall wedding set in beautiful Santa Fe, NM.

Jen and Graham chose his home town of Santa Fe to celebrate their wedding and to provide a beautiful backdrop for all their festivities. The La Fonda Hotel located in the Santa Fe Plaza is a national historic landmark. The hotel with its vibrant décor and authentic New Mexican architecture provided a perfect setting for a beautiful fall wedding.

With such a beautiful location, décor could be kept to a minimum. But, I love how Jen infused lots of rich colors in her florals and bouquets as well as tablescapes. The vibrant colors paired perfectly with her bridesmaids more muted tone.

In keeping with the idea that “less is more”, Jen looked stunning in the Cooper dress by Jenny Yoo. This simple crepe sheath dress with an off the shoulder wrap was perfect for her wedding day. She and Graham made a very handsome couple! And maybe only had the show stolen by the adorable flower girls!

So, as we look forward to all the beautiful weddings that will take place in 2025, for now we say, that’s a wrap!

Dress: The One Bridal Salon

Venue: La Fonda Hotel

Photographer: Maura James Photo

Florist: Amanda’s Flowers

A Pink Spring Wedding: Katie and Eric

Sun, 08 Dec 2024 20:30:00 GMT

I know the 2024 wedding season is coming to a close and I should be focusing on all the beautiful fall weddings with all the vibrant fall colors. But I’m a lover of pinks and pastels and florals and just can’t stop thinking about Katie and Eric’s Spring wedding @ the Clifton Inn. Once you read the blog, you may just see why.

Pink is a mix of red’s passion and white’s purity. It can symbolize love, nurture, compassion, comfort, warmth, and hope. The phrase “in the pink” is a sign of good health, while “everything is rosy” symbolizes success, and “tickled pink” symbolizes happiness. So now knowing all that, how can you not love a pink wedding?

Katie and Eric wanted a private setting for their small, intimate spring wedding and the Clifton Inn provided just that. It allowed family and guests to stay on the grounds and to take part in all the festivities.

Katie had some specific ides in mind when it came to her dress and florals were a definite must have. She chose the Aethra gown by Pronovias and it was the perfect complement to all her floral details, blending not competing, don’t you agree?

As a lover of pink, I think the bridesmaid gowns are just so fun! Again, keeping the floral pattern with the print on the dresses pulls the picture and vision together. Another touch I enjoyed were the wicker baskets that Katie and her florist Steelcut Flower Co used to carry the bouquets, just adorable.

As a final note, remember: Let the power of pink ignite your passion and fuel your dreams.

Venue: The Clifton Inn

Flowers: Steelcut Flower Co

Makeup: Captivating Complexion

Dress: The One Bridal Salon

Band: Sam Hill Bands

Invitations: Minted Weddings

Rentals : Something Vintage Rentals

Blue and White Inspiration: Allie & Forest’s Wedding

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 06:30:00 GMT

Allie and Forrest’s blue and white (with a twist) wedding at Keswick Vineyard was a literal visual treat for the eyes. All of the vibrant colors and attention to detail took this wedding from beautiful to breathtaking.

From the bride, Allie:

“When Forrest and I got engaged, Bridgerton had just been released and I loved how the sets were classic but very colorful. I told my planner, Kristin Ridge, my vision and she and the other vendors just ran with it. I knew I wanted French blue, but wanted it to act as a “neutral” foundation for a variety of other colors because I did not want a cookie cutter blue and white wedding.

My paternal grandmother and I were incredibly close. She collected ginger jars and I thought it would be a great way to incorporate her in our special day. We searched far and wide for accents that would bring a pop of color but still have a traditional element to them. The chargers and wall papered bar/panels had a chinoiserie print to tie in the jars.

Forrest is a Clemson alum, and after incessant requests to have an orange and purple wedding, I humored him. Our florist, Shelby with Tupelo Floral, was able to blend in some orange and purple pastels along with our deeper pinks to appease him.”

Attire details

We love how Allie kept her and her bridesmaids looks slightly understated so as not to compete with all the details of the design. Allie chose the sleek and sophisticated Antiope dress by Pronovias but did add a bit of color in her veil which featured pink and green florals by Bel-Aire Bridal.

If you are looking for some wedding inspiration, look no further than all the gorgeous details of this colorful blue and white wedding.

Vendor Team

Venue: Keswick Vineyards

Wedding Planner: Kristin Ridge Events

Beauty: Ave 42 – Natalie Gordon

Captivating Complexion – Molly Bottas

Bridal Attire and accessories: The One Bridal Salon

Cake: Cakes by Rachel

Catering: Harvest Moon

Ceremony Music: Melodius Strings

Photobooth: Renown

DJ: Derek Tobler

Florist: Tupelo Floral Company

Officiant: Dave Norris

Photography: The Tuckers Photography

Rentals: MS Events

Stationery: Rock Paper Scissors

Stationery Calligraphy: Jodi MacFarlan

Ask the Experts (Part 2)

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 07:30:00 GMT

Read on as we answer more of your questions about wedding dress shopping from our “Ask the Experts” series.

Are Tik-Tok videos and Instagram images of wedding dresses swimming in your head? Is your wedding dress shopping turning from fun to frantic? Don’t stress, we got you. Keep reading as we answer some common questions about dress shopping that we hear from our brides.

Question one: How do I know which wedding dress style or shape will look good on me?

It is important to try on different wedding dress shapes and sizes. You can spend a considerable amount of time pinning images of dresses to your inspiration board but until you try them on, you will have no idea what actually looks good on you. This is where a really good bridal consultant will help you narrow down likes and dislikes. For your first time trying on wedding dresses, our best piece of advice is to try on a sampling of everything. By the end of your appointment you will have a basic idea of your likes and dislikes. Don’t want an A-line dress? Try one on. Don’t think lace is your thing? Try one on. Don’t like strapless gowns? Try one on! You get the idea, be open and you just might be surprised by what you find you like!

Question two: What is an A-line dress?

Azura by Caroline Castigliano

Resembling the letter “A” the A-line dress is characterized by its fitted bodice, cinching at the natural waistline, before it gradually flares out into a moderately full skirt. Creating effortless elegance and an elongated stature, this shape is ideal for the classic bride who prioritizes comfort and mobility. An A-line dress can also be a ballgown, it just depends on how big or full the skirt is.

Question three: What is a fit and flare or trumpet dress?

Mikaella Style 2452

A trumpet dress has a straight-lined skirt that flares toward the hem. This fit and flare style hugs the bodice all the way to the mid-hip and then widens gradually to the bottom. This wedding dress style is perfect for women who prefer to accentuate their curves while enjoying the ease of movement. From the body shape perspective, a trumpet or fit and flare dress is ideal for the hourglass brides. The trumpet and fit and flare is not the same as a mermaid dress. The mermaid dress will cling through the hip and flare at the knees or below, making walking a bit more of a challenge.

Question four: What is the difference between a fit and flare and a sheath dress?

Jenny Yoo – Dovima

A sheath wedding dress features a skirt that falls straight and is a gown that tends to be more fitted to your body type. They show off your curves while having a more simple, minimalist design and do not flare out at the hip. This style can be flattering on a variety of shapes and sizes.

Jenny Yoo – Olivia

Having a basic understanding of the “lingo” that you may encounter while wedding dress shopping is always helpful. Remember to try a variety of styles and silhouettes so that you can figure out which one you look and feel the best in!

Happy wedding dress shopping and let us know are there any more questions you want to “Ask the Experts”!

Click HERE to Contact us.

Real Wedding: Nell & Ryan

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 09:00:00 GMT

We are excited to feature our first wedding from 2024 on our blog today. Nell and Ryan had a perfect spring day, surrounded by the love of their friends and family, all against the beautiful backdrop of Mount Ida Farm in Charlottesville VA.

Nell looked beautiful in an Aline, off the shoulder, lace dress by Paloma Blanca. The softness of the dress complemented her understated style and looked beautiful next to the muted tones of her
bridesmaid dresses.

Enjoy browsing these photos from a perfect spring wedding.

Ryan and Nell we wish you a lifetime of happiness together!

Vendor Team:
Chelsea Renay – Photography
Mount Ida Farm – Venue
Two Byrds Events / The Catering Outfit – Planner/Coordination
Blue Ridge Floral Design – Florals
Posh Bride VA – Beauty
Madly Made Co – Invitation Suite
Prime Time Event Group – Entertainment
The Catering Outfit – Catering
Chandlers Bakery – Cake
MS Events / Eventide Event Rentals – Rentals
The One Bridal Salon – Bridal Attire Shop

Caroline Castigliano

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 06:02:00 GMT

Background

Back in October, when we headed to New York for Bridal Fashion week, we were on the search for new designers to add to The One. We introduced you to Love and Liberty , which was the first new line we added to the salon on this trip. The next day, after a gourmet lunch of hot dogs in Central Park, we headed into The Plaza Hotel for our most anticipated designer show of the trip: Caroline Castigliano.

As long time fans of the designer, being able to meet with Caroline Castigliano and see her new collection in a private suite at The Plaza is a highlight likely to never be forgotten. Caroline’s new collection “Castigliano” did not disappoint. We knew this line was going to be the perfect addition to our Central Virginia salon. Her classic lines, exceptional fabric, and unparalleled construction bring effortless class to her traditionally styled gowns.

About Caroline (from her website )

Caroline has the unique ability to cut and construct garments and that enables her to create a gown that is confident and sexy, yet exudes a deep sense of style. Everything about a Castigliano gown is unique; from the exquisite choice of fabric, to the foundation of the gown, which is created using unique corsetry and undergarments techniques to sculpt and enhance the female figure.

Caroline has been a wedding designer for 32 years. Every dress is crafted with excellence in mind in the United Kingdom. She sees the female figure and creates art for every bride who wears her gowns. The flow and movement of her organza skirts is breathtaking. The Castigliano gowns embody structure, effortless grace, timelessness, and beauty.

“To design and be part of the most important day in a woman’s life is very special and I am honored to have been able to take this role in so many brides lives. I love making a woman feel and look the most fabulous she has in her life.” ~ Caroline Castigliano

Whenever we see a bride in a Caroline Castigliano gown, we continue to notice more details that make these dresses exceptional. Beyond the unparalleled foundation to help brides feel secure on their day, every line is deigned to accentuate the female figure to the best advantage. Finish this killer combination off with exquisite fabrics and it was a very easy decision to add Caroline Castigliano to The One Bridal Salon.

We went to New York in search of new designers and came home with a “British Invasion”. We could not be more excited to be working with all of our new lines and be able to offer these exceptional options to our brides in Central Virginia.

Wedding Dress Venue Sync

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 05:52:00 GMT

When shopping for their wedding gowns, brides often consider how the dress will look in the venue that they have selected. Although the bride generally sets the tone for the affair by her attire, it is important that the wedding dress syncs with the venue. For example, a boho, lace, whimsical gown may look out of place at a country club wedding just like a formal strapless ballgown would look mis-matched at a relaxed resort wedding. Today on the blog, we are featuring three very different venues and the wedding dresses that were worn there. Sometimes pictures can say more than words, but I think you will see why these gowns work effortlessly at their venues.

First up: Priscilla and Brad’s wedding at the Perry Belmont House in Washington DC

The Venue:

The Perry Belmont House is possibly the finest, intact example of a Beaux Arts style mansion in Washington, D.C. The exterior decoration is reminiscent of 15th and 16th century French chateau architecture and an interior boasting double gray veined white marble staircase, soaring 60ft vaulted ceiling with an Ionic colonnade encircling balcony of wrought iron and brass railings. Chandeliers throughout are gold gilt and hung with hand-carved rock crystal drops – some with amethyst as well. There are eleven fireplaces, most with hand-carved marble mantles. All the marble in the house was brought from Italy, all of the wood from Germany, and all the metal fixtures from France. There simply is no grander space in Washington, D.C. to entertain and there is no other word that comes to mind but opulent.

The Dress:

When you are surrounded by such architectural beauty there is only one way to go with your dress, simple, classic, and timeless. The Spencer gown by Jenny Yoo was a perfect choice to complement and not compete with the beautiful surroundings of the venue. The taffeta fabric gave a rich look without being overwhelming and was a perfect match with Brad’s classic tuxedo. This couple certainly took advantage of their surroundings and highlighted them with beautiful floral details. Everything felt lush and grand and tasteful.

Photos: @davidabel.co

Next… Juliette and Andy at Early Mountain Vineyard

The venue:

With so many breathtaking vistas and views that are a part of the vineyards located here in Central Virginia, it is easy to understand why so many couples choose to host their special event nestled against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Early Mountain Vineyard located in Madison, VA is one of the more popular vineyard wedding locations. It is easy to see why: the beautiful views, the lush greenery and of course that stone fireplace in the main event hall.

The dress:

Juliette chose the Lucia gown by Wtoo for her vineyard wedding. This gown, with its all over lace pattern, delicate floral details, and whimsical romantic feeling was a perfect complement to the lovely surroundings. Also choosing a breathable lace fabric is always a smart choice for a summer wedding in Virginia.

Last but certainly not least, Brooke and Kevin at Farmington Country Club, Charlottesville VA

The Venue:

Farmington Country Club has existed for over 90 years, but its roots are far deeper. The buildings are also unlike those of any other country club. To fully appreciate their architectural significance, one must understand what they were. The main house was built in the late 1700s. Thomas Jefferson drew plans for an octagonal addition to the house in 1803, now referred to as the Jefferson Room. This is a venue steeped in tradition. Many of our brides who chose to marry here, often have fond memories of growing up there, dining with their families, swimming in the pool and making lifelong friendships.

The Dress:

Brooke chose the Yvette gown by Vera Wang bride for Pronovias. We loved that she selected a dress that complemented the classic lines of the country club but also brought some fun, unexpected elements, such as the tiered tulle skirt. Brooke also softened the look and feel of the day by incorporating fun pastel floras by @steelcutvirginia in her bouquet and mis-matched bridesmaid dresses.

This wedding demonstrates that you can have a formal country club wedding that does not have to feel “stuffy” or old fashioned.

Photos: @Jenfariello

Three different brides, three different venues, but for each one the wedding dress syncs perfectly to the wedding venue. Just something to think about as you plan your wedding!

Love and Liberty Bridal

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 07:50:00 GMT

The Background

We headed to New York Bridal Fashion week, just a few short weeks ago, in search of a new designer to bring to The One Bridal Salon. We wanted something fresh and something that would be new to the central Virginia bride looking to find “the one”. After arriving in NYC, Love and Liberty Bridal was our first appointment. It took seeing just a few of their beautiful dresses before we were completely hooked, impressed, and excited to add them to our salon.

About the brand (from the Love and Liberty website)

Based in the UK, Love and Liberty is an independent bridal brand. Designed in house for the cool, contemporary bride at their London based showroom by marrying design with high quality fabrics including tulle, French crepe and the finest laces. Creating a versatile selection of styles that range from ethereal and bohemian to alluring and sultry.

Their signature style is modern laid-back luxury, for every day, natural beauties. The gowns are timelessly elegant, sophisticated and flattering, yet joyous and unique. Allowing beautiful brides to feel confident and empowered, to set the trail ablaze for others to follow in all their glory.

With a true love for design, Love and Liberty’s mission is to inspire confidence and spark creativity with innovation and imagination at the heart of each design. Their well-curated edit of responsibly produced modern classics, pair an elevated aesthetic with a strong sense of personality, that our brides truly fall in love with.

And so, we hope that you will fall in love with their dresses just as we did. We are excited to be the only
retailer in the state of Virginia to carry their designs. Come by and take a look.

Eve and Noah’s Wedding at Virginia House

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 06:00:00 GMT

Now from the bride about her dress

I always had a vision for what I wanted. Like any hopeful bride, I had been saving inspiration for this special day. After walking into The One and describing my vision, within seconds “the dress” was pulled and ready for me to try. Before even zipping it up, I knew that that this was “the one”. Walking out to show my mother and grandmother was a moment I’ll never forget and will cherish for the rest of my life. A beautiful understated belt and veil finished the look and made it all feel complete.

About the day

I was a bundle of nerves leading up to my wedding. But, if I could sum up the whole day in just a few words, one of them would certainly be “comfort”. The comfort of marrying the kindest man, the comfort of my parents as I walked down the aisle, the comfort of looking into the crowd and only being met with smiles and acceptance of all the people I love most, and the comfort of feeling the most beautiful I have ever felt in my life.

Surrounded by the lush scenery of the Virginia House and stunning florals of Photosynthesis, it felt like something out of a movie. I laughed, danced, cried, and made so many memories in my dress. From walking down, the aisle to my husband, dancing the whole afternoon with our families, riding through the streets of Richmond with the clatter of cans behind us and spending the evening on a rooftop with all of our dearest friends, this dress was with me through it all. Truly the best day of my life.

Vendors:

Photographer: Lexie Hand

Venue: Virginia House

Florals: Photosynthesis Floral Design

Dress: The One Bridal Salon

What is a Classic Wedding Dress?

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT

What makes a wedding dress classic?

What allows a wedding dress to stand the test of time and not to look outdated no matter how many years go by? Is it the style, cut, fabric, or a combination of all those things? Keep reading as we break it down for you and share with you some of our favorite classic wedding gowns.

Fashion versus Style

In the wise words of Yves Saint Laurent, “fashions fades, style is eternal”. For the bride who is looking for a classic or timeless wedding dress these are words to live by. True style is timeless and is not limited to a particular period in history. It is simply chic, always. A classic wedding dress is one that combines a timeless silhouette with beautifully understated details or embellishments. This dress will be the perfect balance of traditional meets current styles. Combining these elements ensures that the final outcome is elegant, refined and unforgettable. A classic dress does not have to mean boring!

Elements to consider when choosing a classic gown

Here are a few things to consider when shopping for a classic wedding gown:
 Stick to clean lines and flattering silhouettes
 Think timeless, sophisticated, and refined
 Avoid over-the-top embellishments such as glitter and sparkle
 Keep your accessories simple and refined as well
And the most important thing to remember: “LESS IS MORE”.

Here are some of our favorite “classic” wedding dresses and why we think they will stand the test of time.

Cooper by Jenny Yoo

It doesn’t have to be a ballgown to be a classic wedding dress. The Cooper dress by Jenny Yoo exudes timelessness with its clean lines and smooth crepe fabric. This chic style provides so many ways to add fun touches that can showcase your personality, all while keeping it timeless.

Jory by Pronovias

This is a classic, silk Mikado ballgown that can be worn with out without the lace jacket. Either way this dress will never look dated. Its unique lines and fashionable pleats give it some updated style.

Mikaella Style 2215

This style has been a best seller for us and it is easy to see why it is considered a “classic”. The high neck and low back on this dress along with its figure flattering shape make this a winning combination. I bet you can’t guess which bride is from 2019 and which one is from 2023? Timeless is timeless.

Photo credits:
Cooper dress from Quirk hotel photo shoot: Jen Fariello Jory dress, Jennifer with sleeves: David Abel Photography
Anna in Jory dress: Audra Jones Photography

Planning a Destination Wedding

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 09:00:00 GMT

Are you planning a destination wedding?

All the details that go into planning a wedding can be overwhelming at best and thinking about doing it from afar can seem a bit intimidating. The One Bridal Salon, real bride, Jeri breaks down for you how she and her now husband went about planning their destination wedding. Read along for her words of advice.

I had always dreamed about my wedding, the dress, the flowers and all the details, but I also knew I did not want the stress of planning it all. My fiancé and I weighed the pros and cons of a traditional wedding versus a destination wedding keeping all factors in mind, but focusing mainly on the venue and the cost. Once we realized the expense of a traditional wedding, we quickly decided on a destination wedding. We knew the people that meant the most to us would be there and would also enjoy having a vacation as well. So, the next step was to pick our location.

Start Researching

The first thing we focused on was finding a company that specialized in organizing destination weddings. After a lot of googling companies, I ran across Blue Suns Vacation. They were very responsive, responding quickly to our inquiry and setting up a call within a week. We were able to discuss with the wedding coordinator our vision and a full list of our wants and needs.

The Results

Our top destination locations were Mexico, Bali, Dominican Republic, Hawaii and the Bahamas. The wedding planner gave us a few recommendations for each location and we did our own research as well. My husband and I put the top locations in a hat to narrow it down to 2 locations. We chose Mexico and the Dominican Republic. After researching resorts in each location, Mexico was the winner. We had never been to Mexico together and had always wanted to visit Cabo, so that became our destination.

We narrowed our resort search down to the Paradisus Resort for many reasons. It came highly recommended by our wedding planner, it had great reviews, several different dining options for guests, it was both family friendly as well as having restricted adult only areas. It had everything we were looking for, all with a classic and luxurious aesthetic, which was important to us.

Setting up the wedding was a breeze. We were able to pick the best wedding package for us and we were given the option to use their wedding vendors (such as photographer, videographer, entertainment) or we could search our own. We were happy to use their photographer because their portfolio was amazing. Once everything was set up. We just watched it unfold!

The Perfect Day

Our wedding day was just perfect. It was wonderful to share such an intimate day with our close friends and family and have ever detail taken care of by the wonderful resort staff.

Overall, I would highly recommend a destination wedding. It was exactly what we wanted, without it being too expensive. I would recommend doing your homework, asking a lot of questions and make sure what ever package you agree to, it has everything in it that you want. Then just relax and enjoy your day.

Real Wedding: Wellesley and Ulrich

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 18:00:00 GMT

Wellesley and Ulrich’s King Family Wedding last August was absolutely peach perfect! We love everything about this wedding, from the bride’s classic and timeless attire to the fun pops of colors in the florals. But most of all we loved how Wellesley and Ulrich incorporated peaches throughout the wedding; as gifts for their guests, in the floral arrangements, as part of the cake décor and of course in the food offerings.

We asked Wellesley why the peach and here is what she told us:

“I was fortunate enough to grow up in Charlottesville, and I have so many wonderful memories, of this beautiful town, especially summer ones. So, I wanted to share the quintessential Charlottesville summer experience with our wedding guests. I knew immediately that peaches should be incorporated throughout our wedding. Growing up, it was always a treat to head to one of the local peach orchards and scoop up bags of the tastiest peaches a person has ever had. We’d have them grilled, made into ice cream or a cobbler, or simply enjoyed on their own. I was so impressed that our vendors were able to source local peaches to make the experience authentic for our guests. So many of our guests reached out to us in the days following our wedding to tell us the peaches were the best they had ever tasted”!

We must say, this wedding is one of the sweetest we have ever seen!

Well done, Wellesley and Ulrich for bringing a bit of Charlottesville into the lives of your guests. We wish you a lifetime of happiness and sweetness together!

Venue: King Family
Catering: Harvest Moon
Rentals: MS Events
Florals: Southern Blooms
Photography: Dani White
Day of Coordinator: Kristi Kruse
Band: Sam Hill, The Dickens
Dress: The One Bridal Salon
Invitations: Linden Illustration
Wedding Cake: Cakes by Rachel

Ask the Experts: Part 1 As we answer questions regarding bridal dress shopping

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 18:08:00 GMT

Wedding dress shopping is fun, right? But sometimes you may run into some unfamiliar terms, phrases, fabrics, and silhouettes. No problem because we got you! Keep reading to hear some answers to some common questions that we hear from our brides.

Question one :

“What is ruching, and should I consider trying on a wedding dress that features it?

Answer: YES! A big resounding YES! Ruching is a gathered overlay of fabric strips that are pleated, fluted, or gathered to create a ripple like
effect. Here is the most important thing to remember. IT IS UNIVERSALLY FLATTERING ON EVERYONE. It can add interest and femininity to a dress and it is magic when it comes to hiding those annoying flaws that we all think we have. When we show a dress with ruching to many of our brides, their first response is “I don’t like the pleating”. But how can you know what you haven’t tried? Especially, if it is your first bridal appointment, give the dress with the ruching a try and you might be pleasantly surprised.

Question two:

“Is there a universally flattering neckline for wedding dresses that looks good on everyone”?

Answer: The sweetheart neckline is considered the most universally flattering neckline. This neckline can lengthen a short neck and chin and provides balance for a square jaw. It creates the illusion of curves and accentuates the bustline in a modest way. The wide sweetheart neckline helps to balance the hips. Remember, the gown does not have to be strapless to feature a sweetheart neckline.

Question three:

“I am NOT a fan of the sweetheart neckline. Is there a different style neckline that looks flattering on a variety of shapes and sizes”?

Answer: Everyone is different, with a different sense of style, which is why there are a variety of different necklines to choose from. That said, the V-neck is an excellent universal option. This neckline works with a variety of bust and shoulder sizes and does an excellent job of giving the illusion of height to the wearer. The beauty of the V-neck lies in the fact that it can come in a variety of different depths, from the deep plunge to a more modest cut.

Many designers will offer some modifications on the v-necklines. So if the cut is too deep or not deep enough, be sure to ask your bridal consultant about what changes can be made.

“Are there certain fabrics for bridal gowns that are better suited for certain seasons”?

Answer: Yes, there are. If you are planning a spring/summer wedding you may want to consider fabrics that are lighter and more breathable such as lace, organza, chiffon, and tulle.

For fall and winter weddings you can consider heavier fabrics such as satins, silks and crepes. The other thing to consider is how much time exactly will you be spending outside. This may also affect your fabric choice.

Hope this helps to answer some of your questions. Stay tuned for Part Two where we will tackle some more. Happy wedding dress shopping!

Real Wedding: Camberly and Mike

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 09:00:00 GMT

We love all of our brides but this one is extra special for The One Bridal Salon’s bridal consultant, Kelsey. Kelsey and Camberly have been friends since they were 18 and so Kelsey was thrilled when Camberly asked her to be a member of her bridal party and to be present for Camberly and Mike’s special day. Add to this, that Kelsey also was able to help Camberly with choosing her perfect wedding dress as well. It was a special dress appointment because when you know your best friend so well, it is easy to help them find “the one” once they had “their one”. Enjoy all the love and happiness from Mike and Camberly’s wedding day.

Camberly and Mike’s wedding was truly unique to them because Camberly is also the owner of Sweet Pear Paper. An artist to her core, Camberly had a specific vision for how she wanted the day to look. From the seating chart to the table decor, the stunning ceremony set up, and so much more, Camberly paid close attention to the details. I think you will agree with us that this wedding came together beautifully.

Vendors:

Dress Shopping Myths – To believe or not to believe?

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 08:35:00 GMT

There are a lot of wedding dress shopping misconceptions or myths that have been passed along, almost like urban legends. Some of these myths can take a fun memorable experience and turn it into something stressful and quite frankly, nightmarish! We want your dream dress shopping experience to be exactly that, a dream, easy, fun, and most of all successful! So that is why we are taking the time to bust some of the myths associated with wedding dress shopping.

Myth 1: You can’t possibly find “the one” at the very first bridal salon

We get it, “fomo” is very real, especially when it comes to finding your wedding dress. We see it happen all the time where a bride falls in love with a dress (and we mean, really in love with the dress, it gives her all the right feelings, she looks and feels incredible in it ).But, when it comes to saying yes, there is instant panic. Why? Because there is that fear that maybe there is something better out there and that if she keeps looking, she will find it.

Real talk: The more dresses you try the more likely you are to become confused and overwhelmed. And, if you keep trying on dresses, you may lose that “it’s the one moment”, we just described above because you already had it (but didn’t listen to that little voice in your head/heart). Wedding dress shopping is an excellent time to begin to really trust that little voice in your head, because when you know, you know! It really can be the first shop and the first dress. Just don’t let the magic escape you because you are afraid to listen to your heart.

Myth 2: It can’t be the one without tears (yours or someone in your entourage, like your mother, or future mother-in-law, or best friend, you get the idea).

Let’s face it, some people are not criers and there are others (like myself) who sob at the drop of the hat. If you don’t shed a tear it does not mean that you do not love a particular wedding dress. Most of the time it is more because of a look, a special moment, or thought that causes a bride to tear up while looking at herself in the mirror. It is usually when she is envisioning herself walking down the aisle, to marry the love of her life, while wearing an amazing dress that makes her look and feel so beautiful, confident, and like herself.

However, a bride can also know without any tears being shed that she has found her gown. Again, it goes back to trusting your instinct, your heart, your gut whatever it is in that moment.

That said, it doesn’t mean that we don’t keep a box of tissues on hand when those tear-filled moments do occur.

Myth 3: You must bring a huge entourage to each appointment so no one feels left out.

Dress shopping is the most exciting thing to do when planning a wedding (ok, we might be slightly biased about that). So, it makes sense that you want to share it with your Mom, Grandmother, bridal party, future Mother-in-Law, sisters, aunt, sorority sisters and friends from college, that old friend from high school you just reconnected with, and the barista who gives you your morning coffee. Oh wait, does that sound completely overwhelming? Trust us, it very much is.

Real Talk: Everyone will come to the appointment with their own ideas of how you as the bride should look and what their vision is for you. Those ideas may or may not match, the ones that you have for yourself. We all have our own unique styles, and having too many voices or opinions can be terribly distracting and make you begin to question exactly what it is that you want. .

We cannot stress this enough, bring 2 – 3 people whose opinion you trust plus your decision maker – the person without whom you couldn’t possibly buy the dress even if it is absolutely the right one. There are plenty of other opportunities, like when your dress comes in or alterations, to have other people with you and marvel at you in your gown.

Myth 4: Everyone must like it

Staged or not, one of the things that the reality show “Say Yes to the Dress” has shown us is that not everyone is going to love the dress that you select. The question is, are you a strong enough to standup to that person and let your opinion and your decision be the one that matters? Or will someone, unintentionally, ruin a say yes moment and cause you to walk away from a dress that you love?

Real Talk: What’s important here is how you feel about the dress. You are the ONLY one who must love it. This is what I tell brides frequently: Most of the time, no one who attends your wedding is going to remember the details of your dress. They WILL, however, remember how beautiful you looked in it. Why? Because if you feel beautiful, gorgeous, sexy, confident (whatever adjective you want to put here), you are going to project that. Your guests will see it in your smile, the way you hold your head up, your ease and your self-confidence. Please you and you cannot go wrong.

Myth 5: Your wedding dress size will be the same as your normal dress size

Don’t let numbers play with your head. . Bridal size charts have not changed since the 50’s and therefore do not factor in the “vanity sizing” most brands employ today. Be prepared for it and realize that most bridal gowns will run 1-2 sizes smaller than your normal dress size.. Work closely with your bridal consultant on this one. She knows the designers and how the dresses will fit. Order the size that fits your measurements, no matter the number. It will make for a much more comfortable wedding day. Then always remember that size does not, has not, and will never define beauty.

We hope that you have found some of this information helpful and that it will come in handy as you embark on your dress shopping journey. And, as always, we are here to guide you along the way and to help ensure that your wedding dress dream does come true.

Real Wedding: Caroline and Christian

Tue, 16 Aug 2022 09:00:00 GMT

There’s something we simply love about a downtown Charlottesville wedding and Caroline and Christian’s March wedding is no exception. From the downtown landscape to a couple so clearly in love, there’s so much to adore about this wedding.

When Caroline came in to find “the one” she wanted something that was traditional, simple, and classic. When she tried on “Monica” by Jenny You, and we added a little more volume with some extra crinoline, Caroline knew it was the perfect dress to wear on her special day.

We think it always best to hear about a wedding in the bride’s own words:

“Early on in our engagement and the wedding planning process, Christian and I knew we wanted our day to be a reflection of us and our personalities – simple, classic, focused on our faith, and surrounded by our family and close friends. Old Metropolitan Hall was the perfect venue for all of that – its historic charm and smaller size were exactly what we were looking for, and helped the day to feel like an intimate gathering with our favorite people. We kept the decor minimal and neutral, as we wanted the focus to be on the people that were there to celebrate with us. Looking back on the day now, we both agree that our favorite part of the day was sitting down with all of our people in one room to eat dinner at our reception. It felt surreal to see all the people we love in one room together, on the Downtown Mall, just there to support us as we began our marriage. It truly was our favorite day!”

Vendor List :

Venue: Old Metropolitan Hall

Photographer: Savannah Faith Photography

Dress: The One Bridal Salon

Designer: Jenny Yoo

Alterations: Fariba’s Alterations

Florals: She Blooms – Ciara Steinberg

Catering: The Local

Dessert: Strite’s Donuts

Hair/Makeup: Posh Bride VA

Planning: With Joy Events – Caitlin Giovanni

The One Bridal Salon, Real Wedding Natalie and Michael – Castle Hill Cider, Keswick, VA

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 21:03:00 GMT

October 22, 2021

Castle Hill Cidery

The Introduction:

October 22, 2021, was the kind of fall day people dream of for their Virginia weddings. Michael and Natalie were married at Castle Hill in the sunshine, surrounded by family and friends. With Jen Fariello on hand to capture every sweet moment, this wedding was simply too fabulous not to feature on our blog. We will let the bride share with you her favorite moments of the day while we bask in how radiant she looks in the Epico gown by Pronovias.

In Natalie’s words:

My favorite moment of the day was definitely our first look. Michael started crying the moment he turned around and saw me, and I had never really seen him cry before so of course then I got emotional too! Getting to spend that hour together just the two of us in the beautiful fall sunlight was incredibly special.

We wrote our own vows, so the ceremony was another favorite part of the day. We cried through most of our vows but also had some jokes thrown in there, so what I remember most from the ceremony is just alternating crying and laughing! Immediately following the ceremony, we walked a little ways away and just hugged each other and cried (hard) for several minutes. It was the most overwhelming feeling of love and joy and connection. I will never forget that moment.

And next…

The weather was perfect, so getting to enjoy our extended cocktail hour outdoors on the beautiful grounds of Castle Hill was another highlight. Sipping on our signature drink and finally getting to talk to our guests made it feel like the party had really started and all the wedding stress was behind us.

And then the real fun began

At our reception, from the time our band took the stage, I don’t think we left the dance floor all night. They were UNBELIEVABLE. Dancing to nonstop hits with all of our closest friends and family felt like something out of a dream. It was the best day ever!

Its a wrap….

Congratulations Natalie and Michael, we wish you a lifetime of happiness!

Vendor List:
Photographer: Jen Fariello
Videographer: Thirty1Films
Caterer: The Catering Outfit
Venue: Castle Hill Cider

Flowers: Southern Blooms
Cake: Commonwealth Cake Company
Hair: TopKnot Salon
Makeup: Rouge 9
Band: 76 Degrees West
DJ: Patrick Zurn
Entertainment Booking Company: East Coast Entertainment
Bridal Salon: One Bridal Salo

Behind a Name | The Origin Story for The One Bridal Salon in Charlottesville, Virginia

Mon, 02 May 2022 22:01:00 GMT

Why the One?

Do you ever stop to wonder how a store got its name? Why Target instead of “You’ll Never Buy Only What You Need”? Sure, Target may be catchier, but the other is the truth. While we may not have answers to the “why” behind the name for every retail store, we can let you in on how The One Bridal Salon got its name.

The One Bridal Salon began as a distant dream of owner, Peggie Donowitz. Having worked part time at other local bridal salons, Peggie fell in love with bridal and began thinking of opening her own store. Fast forward a couple more years and Peggie’s salon was well underway to becoming a reality. The space was leased, the designers were chosen, and even the décor was nearly complete. However, when it came to a name, she was stumped. In the end, it was Peggie’s daughter who came up with the name, “The One”. Finding “the one” at “The One” was just too perfect and the store culture has been built around it.

The One Bridal Salon is focused on just one person, you the bride. We carry only bridal gowns and bridal accessories, and we take only one appointment at a time. For such a special moment, we know brides don’t want to have to share the mirror. They want to be the “ only one ”. Every bride who comes to The One receives exclusive access to the salon and the carefully curated gowns and accessories. It is your time to relax, dream and find the one.

Why we do what we do:

We simply love helping brides find “the one”. The excitement of a bride finding her dream dress is something we often get to be a part of, and it is an experience that never gets old. We begin each appointment by sitting down to speak with the bride, to find out what her vision is for her wedding, and what type of wedding dress she sees herself wearing on her big day. From there we begin selecting dresses for the bride to try. This is the part we like to describe as the great puzzle. We take the small comments that the bride makes about each gown and factor in the overall wedding vision to help the bride narrow her selection down to the one perfect dress.

Finding “the one” is a very real experience and it is what we work toward in every appointment with our brides.

So, why would a bride choose to find “the one” at The One Bridal Salon? There are the obvious answers such as the opportunity to have an intimate and exclusive shopping experience or our beautiful selection of designer dresses. However, what we think is most important is the expertise we offer to each bride, from knowing which silhouette is most flattering, to what fabric will be most comfortable, to what customizations can be made to truly create the perfect dress. We are here to take the stress out of buying a dress and to help each bride find “the one” that suits her the best. We listen, and we mean truly listen, to every bride not only during our initial consultation but during her entire appointment. The bride is our “one” focus. We will always champion what she wants and help her navigate through her thoughts during the try on process. We even have a few tricks up our sleeves for when a bride gets torn between dresses. Because we love what we do, and have done it for quite some time, we combine our passion and expertise to help walk our brides through this special and exciting shopping experience. At The One Bridal Salon brides can trust us to help partner with and guide them through every moment of finding “the one”. It is our passion and our pleasure to help make each bride’s dreams come true.

We love to partner with local wedding vendors, the images in this post were photographed by Jen Fariello.

Designer Spotlight | Loulette Bride | Sustainable and Eco Friendly Wedding Dresses

Mon, 02 May 2022 22:01:00 GMT

Loulette Bride is the newest designer to join The One Bridal Salon. With a focus on inclusivity, transparency, sustainably and ethically sourced materials, not to mention, beautiful wedding dresses, we knew this was the perfect brand to bring to Charlottesville, Virginia.

Who is the person behind Loulette Bride ?

Marteal Mayer is the designer and visionary behind Loulette Bride. Marteal began her designing career in the fashion industry and worked for several big-name box stores as well as another bridal designer before launching her own designs. She is passionate about creating high quality dresses so every bride can have their special moment. A favorite quote from our conversation with Marteal was, “Bridal is a market of real everyday women. The average girl doesn’t have a gala to go to that often. Bridal is every girl’s moment to wear something really spectacular that is made with a lot of care, love, and beautiful fabrics.” We could not agree more!

What Makes their Process Sustainable?

Each gown is made to order so there is no excessive inventory. A new dress begins as a sketch and then a single sample is created. Each gown is then designed and cut to create as little waste as possible. Everything is made in their Brooklyn studio, reducing shipping, minimizing carbon impact, guaranteeing their quality, and ensuring the labor is always fair and ethical. When shipping their dresses, Loulette Bridal use carbon neutral shipping with either plastic free or reused plastic packaging. Even their garment bags are biodegradable.

What Materials are Used and Where Does the Waste Go?

The linings for their dresses are made of recycled poly lining and natural fiber fabrics like cotton, silk, hemp, linen, and wool. All fabric scraps created while designing and cutting the dresses are recycled with Fab Scrap. Any of their paper products are printed on recycled or paper created from reclaimed fiber from the garment industry. No leather, fur, feathers, or any animal skins are used in the creation of their designs.

How Do They Give Back?

For every dress sold through Loulette Bride, a tree is planted in the bride’s name with One Tree Planted. Every season, they pick a new charity to donate a portion of their sales. Previously they have championed brands like Sunrise Movement, The Bee Conservancy, Pretty Brown Girls, The Lower East Side Girls Club, Women for Afghan Women, NYC Health and Hospitals, Fund Texas Choice, and so many more. Loulette Bridal also launched the West Street Wedding Collective Mentorship Program. This is a free program aimed at helping students of color to work on their creative pursuits with local experts.

While the fresh look of the Loulette dresses drew our initial interest, we fell in love with this company’s ethics, deep commitment to sustainability, and heart for giving back. These dresses will not only make a bride feel beautiful, but they will also bring peace of mind , knowing that the gown she is wearing was created in the most ethically way possible

theonebridalsalon.com

Preserving Your Wedding Dress — Keeping the Story Beautiful

Why Preservation Matters

How We Help

A Piece to Cherish

Inside Your Bridal Appointment — What Makes The One Experience Different

One Bride at a Time

Curated with Care

The Moment You Know

Wedding Dresses with Slits: Chic Statement or Practical Choice?

Why Brides Love Slit Wedding Dresses

Styling a Dress with a Slit

Is a Slit Right for You?

A Classic Charlottesville Celebration: Carly and Ben’s Wedding

The Magic of Veils – A Guide to Wedding Veil Lengths

Birdcage Veil

Fingertip Length Veil

Blusher Veil

Elbow-Length Veil

Choosing the Right Veil for You

Things to Know before your Wedding Dress Appointment

The Process

A Few Words of Advice

Beautiful Fall Wedding: Jen and Graham

We are finishing up our 2024 featured weddings with a wonderfully colorful and fun fall wedding set in beautiful Santa Fe, NM.

A Pink Spring Wedding: Katie and Eric

Blue and White Inspiration: Allie & Forest’s Wedding

From the bride, Allie:

Attire details

Vendor Team

Ask the Experts (Part 2)

Question one: How do I know which wedding dress style or shape will look good on me?

Question two: What is an A-line dress?

Question three: What is a fit and flare or trumpet dress?

Question four: What is the difference between a fit and flare and a sheath dress?

Happy wedding dress shopping and let us know are there any more questions you want to “Ask the Experts”!

Real Wedding: Nell & Ryan

Caroline Castigliano

Background

About Caroline (from her website )

Wedding Dress Venue Sync

First up: Priscilla and Brad’s wedding at the Perry Belmont House in Washington DC

The Venue:

The Dress:

Next… Juliette and Andy at Early Mountain Vineyard

The venue:

The dress:

Last but certainly not least, Brooke and Kevin at Farmington Country Club, Charlottesville VA

The Venue:

The Dress:

Love and Liberty Bridal

The Background

About the brand (from the Love and Liberty website)

Eve and Noah’s Wedding at Virginia House

Now from the bride about her dress

About the day

What is a Classic Wedding Dress?

What makes a wedding dress classic?

Fashion versus Style

Elements to consider when choosing a classic gown

Here are some of our favorite “classic” wedding dresses and why we think they will stand the test of time.

Cooper by Jenny Yoo

Jory by Pronovias

Mikaella Style 2215

Planning a Destination Wedding

Are you planning a destination wedding?

Real Wedding: Wellesley and Ulrich

Ask the Experts: Part 1 As we answer questions regarding bridal dress shopping

Question one :

Question two:

Question three:

Real Wedding: Camberly and Mike

Dress Shopping Myths – To believe or not to believe?

Real Wedding: Caroline and Christian

The One Bridal Salon, Real Wedding Natalie and Michael – Castle Hill Cider, Keswick, VA

Behind a Name | The Origin Story for The One Bridal Salon in Charlottesville, Virginia￼

Why the One?

Why we do what we do:

Designer Spotlight | Loulette Bride | Sustainable and Eco Friendly Wedding Dresses

Who is the person behind Loulette Bride ?

Behind a Name | The Origin Story for The One Bridal Salon in Charlottesville, Virginia