I've been walking by Brudesalongen in Stavanger for weeks now. Admiring, finding inspiration, and staring in awe at their beautiful window displays! I knew it was a must to pop in to say hi and see their dresses up close. The owners Birte and Hege, both trained as tailors and designers, met in the theatre department and decided to partner up to open Brudesalonngen 8 years ago. Brudesalongen translates literally to 'Bridal Salon' from Norwegian! They've transformed this adorable antique building into a modern bridal boutique with one of a kind service, gorgeous gowns, and accessories. I think they offer some of the best dresses in the area and most of all they care about their brides and customers! "We're not too old and we're not too young - we can relate! We want the bride to be comfortable and be true to their personality." says Hege. For their own line of dresses they get inspiration from following the latest trends, magazines and nature, but also "We choose what we'd want to wear ourselves." she says. The two travel across Europe and love going to the London trunk shows hand-picking every gown to hang in their store as well as unique fabrics to design and sew their own! "We are quality tailors and we want to make sure the dress fits very well." I have noticed that weddings in Norway are a bit different from American weddings so I was courious to ask the two what changes they've seen in the last few years and how the American bridal market has changed their business. Birte mentioned,
"Norwegians are a bit more laid back when they shop, sometimes a bride will come alone to pick a dress out herself. But now they see they want something different, something magical, something to share!. So, it's a challenge for us but of course it is our service! Brides that are watching the TV show 'Say Yes to the Dress' are influenced by it. They want to have an experience similar. They want to find a dress and share an experience with their friends and family. It should be something extraordinary. "
Stop in to see their own line of dresses and the cute wallpaper (see below...aaadorable!) - or check out their website online and view the incredible designers! They feature Norwegian designers Sadoni and Leila Hafzi, who has a very bohemian look and uses a lot of silk. They also offer Danish, Spanish, and English designer gowns!
Below: Birte dressing a mannequin for the window display. The pink dress is one of their own designs!
Below: Hege
The salon also carries to-die-for, designer shoes, hats and accessories!
Rivets and Roses, Brudesalongen, and Leila Hafzi will all be showing at an upcoming bridal fair this winter. We're pumped for it - so stay tuned for more info!