A growing consignment bridal boutique in Kelowna is moving into a larger space

| April 30, 2019 in Innovation Series

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People are often amazed at the amount of effort, materials and money that are put into a dress that will only be worn once.

It was this thought and a trip to Haight-Ashbury, a neighbourhood in San Francisco that boasts plenty of unique second-hand shops, that sparked Shilo Verhaegen’s idea to open a consignment bridal boutique in Kelowna.

Ashbury Bridal opened in November of 2012. It was a unique concept, and as with just about any new business, there were a few hurdles. For Verhaegen, the main objection to overcome was brides’ apprehensions about wearing a used dress however, this wasn’t a concern for too long.

“I was surprised at how quickly I was able to educate women on the environmental benefits of purchasing a used gown,” said Verhaegen. “I didn’t expect that it would happen so fast, but within three months of opening my business, my store was full.”

Today, the business has become so successful that Verhaegen is moving the store to a larger space in the coming months.

“Six years into it, I didn’t think that the demand of my business would be pleasantly pushing me to open up a space three times its size,” said Verhaegen. “The business has grown virtually from word of mouth, and from women becoming more environmentally aware.”

Ashbury Bridal will soon be moving from downtown to a larger space at 2333 Hunter Road. The space will also become home to Verhaegen’s second store, Ashbury’s Attic, which sells other formalwear such as bridesmaid and grad dresses.

The larger space not only allows Verhaegen to amalgamate her two stores, but to meet the growing demand for private appointments.

“We do one appointment at a time so it’s really intimate, it’s really private. We wanted to bring that into the new space, so we built more private change rooms, so you still get that intimate feel,” said Verhaegen. “Now, our Saturdays will be available for multiple appointments at a time.”

Brides are realizing the many benefits of purchasing a used gown and accessories. It’s less wasteful and more environmentally friendly. The dresses are typically only worn for one day, and have been well-loved, taken care of and freshly cleaned. And, of course, it’s a lot more affordable.

“You only have to pay for a Volkswagen but you get to drive the Porsche,” said Verhaegen.

Ashbury Bridal isn’t the only thing that experience growth over the last six years.

“My personal growth as a business owner came from having to confront my own fears of failure and financial stresses,” said Verhaegen. “When you believe in your business, it just always seems to work out.”

For more information about Ashbury Bridal and updates on their move, check out their website and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

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