A wedding dress is so much more than a piece of clothing. When purchasing a dress, it’s carefully thought out and chosen with love and excitement. When brides are looking for their dress, they will not settle for any dress, they are searching for “the one.” Brenda, owner of Tie the Knot Bridal Boutique, is ready to help all those brides find the perfect dress of their dreams. I’ve worked with Brenda numerous times and I love sending my brides-to-be to her shop. Her and her team are extremely knowledgeable and willing to help anyone that walks through their doors. Their goal is to give brides an amazing experience and help them find that one dress that will make their hearts sing. I met with Brenda at her Green Bay boutique to discuss all things weddings, bridal gowns, & her business.

When did you start your business?
I started my business December 1, 2006.

What interested you about your craft? Why start your own business?
Allison, my daughter, worked at two bridal stores while in college and loved it. She thought it would be a great idea if we opened our own bridal store. At the time, I was a Human Resource Manager but I really didn’t love my job anymore. I started looking at the possibilities of opening a bridal store. I researched areas to open the business and wrote a business plan. I think I was always interested in the bridal industry but not brave enough to pursue a career in it on my own. My daughter really had the ideas and experience but she gave me the push toward opening a store. I enjoy working for myself. I’m very focused and have a strong work ethic. Even though I work more hours per week now, owning my business has given me flexibility with my schedule.

What kind of schooling/training have you had?
I have a high school education and have also taken numerous courses relating to human resources, business, and accounting.

How would you describe your style?
My store has a traditional feel but with contemporary styles. In the age of technology when everything can be purchased online, I think brides still want that in-store bridal experience. They want to try on the dresses, feel the fabrics, and picture themselves walking down the aisle.

Favorite part of the wedding planning process?
My favorite part of the wedding process is finding the dress (not a surprise.) It’s such a great feeling to see a bride light up when she has found the perfect gown for her wedding.

Favorite part of weddings?
When the father of the bride sees his daughter in her bridal gown for the first time. When you see a tear in a father’s eye, you know it’s the right dress.

Any Helpful Tips for Brides searching for their wedding dress?
– Don’t bring too many people to your bridal appointments – the bride gets too many opinions and she forgets what she really wants and how she feels in the dress
– Be open-minded – try on a variety of styles, fabrics, and colors
– When you know it’s the dress, buy it. The more a bride looks, the more confused she can get
– You will probably need alterations, this is one dress in your life that you want to fit absolutely perfect

What is in store for Tie the Knot’s future?
Keep on growing the business. We’ve had eight wonderful years in this business. It was very tough to start this business from scratch but I feel I have a really good handle on the bridal industry and owning a business.

Tell us more about Brenda!
– My husband, Mark, is a civil engineer for the City of Appleton
– We had a destination wedding in Aruba
– I have two children – Allison, who lives in Little Suamico and owns Sash and Bow. Nathan – lives in Birmingham, Alabama and is a construction supervisor
– I have two grandchildren and a new granddaughter on the way, I really enjoy spending time with my grandkids
– I love to travel, especially to warm weather destinations

Details about your business:
Website: www.tie-the-knot-bridal.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/tietheknotbridal
Phone: 920-662-1920
Hours: Mon-Thurs. 10-7, Fri. 10-5, Sat. 9-4