What was the process like working to open the new Carlsbad store?
There was a definite anticipation from our San Diego brides about the opening of the 11th BHLDN location. That same energy and dedication was reciprocated from the entire Anthropologie Carlsbad team from start to finish. With everything from product processing, to hours dedicated to our white petal leaves window display, and two full days of training for our BHLDN team, there was never a dull moment leading up to opening day. The highlight of our opening process had to be our first day of appointments when it all came together so beautifully. To see the amount of love, appreciation, and excitement from our brides who come in everyday really made those long days so worthwhile.
We certainly love it here in North County San Diego – so we were thrilled to hear the store was opening here! How did your team select Carlsbad?
We’ve seen high demand from the southern California region for a few years now and Anthropologie’s Carlsbad expansion seemed like the perfect opportunity to enter the local market and give our customers in the area a chance to shop our collection in person.
Tell us about the "typical" bride that shops at BHLDN (if there is one!)
Our bride is always one-of-a-kind, often open to the slightly non-traditional. Some are classic, some romantic, some bohemian, and some neo-sophisticates, but they all have the commonality of seeking the exceptional. They want a wedding that sets them apart and celebrates their individuality. Which is why BHLDN scours the globe, curating a collection of uniquely beautiful things just for them.
Do you have any tips for brides for their first time trying on gowns?
Be open minded! It might come as shock that something you passed over on the web could end up being “the one” when you try it on. Trust your stylist and don’t be afraid to venture out of your comfort zone – you might just end up pleasantly surprised!
Do you have a favorite dress that’s in-store right now?
We love all of our gowns because each one offers something different that is unique to that particular piece! We just can’t choose!
We’d love to highlight the local vendors you partnered with at the opening party. Who did you work with?
Bakery – Sweet Cheeks Baking Company
Calligrapher – Four Things Wedding Paper & Calligraphy
Champagne - Le Grand Cortage
Florist – Blue Ladder Botany
Event Photographer – Corey Villacana Photography
Menswear – The Black Tux
Photo booth – Red Photo Booth
Rentals – Farm Tables & More
Is there an accessory that brides always overlook, that would make a big impact to their wedding look?
We love a halo! You can pair it with your veil and then rock it solo during your reception. It adds some extra sparkle and personality to your wedding day look. Shop them here.
What trends are you seeing in bridal fashion? Do you have any personal favorites?
We are loving the separates trend right now! Both in bridal and bridesmaids, mixing and matching tops with skirts offer endless opportunity for customization and self-expression, something we know our brides value. We pride ourselves in our separates offering and even launched a tool that lets brides scroll through different options a la Cher’s closet in Clueless to see all the myriad ways she can style her big day. We’re also loving that gold is back when it comes to jewelry and accessories!
We’d love to include some tidbits for destination brides – is there anything extra they should consider when purchasing a dress? i.e. is there a special way you recommend transporting the gown, or is there a certain way to match the style of their destination/venue?
We offer the Brides Travel Bag Set and Parfume Hanger Sachet to help the destination bride pack for her big day, along with an assortment of elopement and beach dresses that are packable and easy to throw into a suitcase or carry in a garment bag on the plane. We are firm believers in wearing whatever you want to your wedding, no matter the venue, but certain gowns do lend themselves to certain locals. Getting married in the hot sun in Mexico? Maybe opt for something lightweight like the Teagan. Saying “I do” in Iceland? Go for something a bit more covered like the Landry Dress.
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