Something old, something new...

Sharon Townsend still remembers the bridal consultant who helped her select her wedding gown at Tiffany’s Bridal 35 years ago.

“The store had so many beautiful gowns, it was difficult to choose just one,” Townsend said, “but the consultant made suggestions based on what I seemed to like, and together we found the lovely combination of lace, chiffon and satin that I still love today.”

As Tiffany’s Bridal prepares to celebrate its 40th anniversary in 2009, Townsend hopes to carry on that tradition of service as the store’s new owner and manager. While maintaining the spirit of Richmond’s oldest bridal boutique, she’s also giving Tiffany’s a makeover that will transform this “something old” into “something new” for Richmond brides.

In late October, Townsend purchased Tiffany’s Bridal and The Groom’s Corner with her friend and business partner Carolyn Simons. The duo plans to relocate Tiffany’s Bridal to Ridge Shopping Center on Parham Road, just across from Regency Square. The new store opens January 2, with a grand opening celebration, which will also commemorate the 40th anniversary, scheduled for January 31.

“Our new location will feature spacious dressing rooms and easily accessible displays,” Townsend said.
“Brides will enjoy browsing our expanded dress, invitation, jewelry, footwear and headpiece selections in an elegant atmosphere.”

Simons and Townsend traveled to Chicago recently for a bridal fashion convention, at which they learned the latest trends and acquired new dress lines for the store. Townsend said Richmond brides will find the new bridal collections, such as Essence of Australia and Pattis, exclusively at Tiffany’s and the store will also have fresh styles in its flower girl, bridesmaid and mother-of-the-bride sections.  continued...