Hayden Olivia Bridal Boutique - Charlotte, NC

Happenings around HOB

Heather Batt — Thu, 23 May 2013 13:21:13 +0000

Whew- what a month and where has it gone? Here are a few details of happenings around the boutique! The new arrivals are over the top gorgeous, new events planned for the summer (check out our events page) and we have been busy adding pretty accessories and pieces to our selection of accessories. We have patiently awaited the arrival of two gowns from Jim Hjelm- yes ladies, the anticipated striped gown has arrived! Our alterations department has been so booked that sweet Mai has been working 7 days a week- congrats to all of the brides who were married in April and May! We are patiently waiting to see your photos! Here are a few photos of new arrivals…

Ivory beaded (yes, this gown is fully beaded!) Alencon lace over Peach Organza

modified A-Line bridal gown, sweetheart neckline, open back, with covered button detail, sweep train

Perfect details from Haute Bride

Real Bride Feature

Heather Batt — Wed, 08 May 2013 13:45:50 +0000

A message from Jenna…

“I wore the Portia on 9/22/12 when I married my love. I have to share a story with you first. In July of 2011, my now husband and I were in Charleston, SC while I was finishing up training for my new job with Walgreens. We parked the car so he could finish a phone call and when I looked to my right, I saw your Charleston store. I immediately took a photo and sent it to my best friend (who introduced my husband and I and was our MOH). I told her we would be shopping here for the big day, which I had no idea would come in 2012.

I had totally forgotten about this until the day I chose a Modern Trousseau gown from Hayden Olivia Bridal in Charlotte. I randomly chose this shop because it was centrally located for my mother (WV), my now sister-in-law (Atlanta), and myself (North Myrtle Beach, SC). I hadn’t looked at Modern Trousseau gowns, I actually was not a fan when they pulled Portia from the rack and insisted I try it on. It was gown number 3 and from the moment I put it on, I knew it was the gown I would marry my husband in. It was so comfortable. I could wear it everyday!

Thank you for designing my dream gown, and being a part of the fairy tale I’ve always imagined!”

Congratulations Jenna, we loved working with you!

New Arrivals

Heather Batt — Tue, 07 May 2013 00:50:43 +0000

We always like to keep you up to date on our new arrivals. Here is a sneak peek of just a few…we have had several arrive in the last two weeks and more to come. We are thrilled to share these with our newly engaged brides, still lots of time for fall/winter 2013 brides and spring 2014 brides. Peek at our schedule of events here. Do you have an appointment booked in the coming weeks- we hope so!

NYC Bridal Market

Heather Batt — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 12:21:26 +0000

We are so thrilled to share that some of the exact gowns that were just launched at Bridal Market in NYC this past weekend have already hit our gown gallery. Our designers are so great that they allowed us to pre order so we would be one of the first stores to have these gowns available. They are new, stunning and ready for you to slip into. We are often asked, do I need an appointment? We do ask that you make an appointment so we can make sure we have a dressing room available for you as well as a helpful consultant to answer your questions and provide you with an unforgettable gown shopping experience. Here is to Bridal Market 2013 and gorgeous gowns that have already arrived- Cheers!

Hayley Paige Trunk Show

Heather Batt — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 14:21:01 +0000

We are thrilled to host our spring Hayley Paige trunk show this weekend. The designer will send in the newest styles for just one weekend. Appointments are limited, however we will do our very best to accommodate all requests. If you have a specific gown in mind, please call ahead to check availability. We look forward to meeting you this weekend. Do you have your appointment time booked?

Guindon Gown: Ivory striped organza strapless bridal ball gown with sweetheart neckline,

full flounced skirt, and taupe raw silk sash at natural waist with chapel train

Guide to Wearing Accessories

Heather Batt — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 13:57:03 +0000

Making a gown decision is big, really big. Most brides feel a bit overwhelmed to choose a gown and a veil and a bracelet and a hairpiece and a hair flower all in one appointment…get the picture? We like to focus on a dual first fitting/accessory appointment. By this time, you have had time to think through your “look”. You have decided if you prefer a stud earring over a chandelier, you have decided if you will wear a hair piece under your veil or just for the reception…so many decisions! Here is a little guide to choosing accessories. Some of these will make you smile or even laugh out loud…these come from our real world bridal accessory appointments and hope that they will be helpful!

1. You Are Not a Christmas Tree: Sometimes brides get so excited about all the beautiful sparkle that they will keep adding…every location on the body that can hold a piece of sparkle (that is visable on wedding day of course) is probably not wise…choose a tasteful combination.

2. Statement Necklace: If you are wearing a statement necklace, keep the rest of your accessories simple!

3. Incorporate a Family Piece: We have talented artisans who can take a family piece and incorporate it into your jewelry choices. A special piece created for your day that can be passed down for generations.

4. Wear a Bracelet: If the skirt of your gown is simple, you can handle a great bracelet, a pretty detail when you are standing with your hands down and photographs beautifully.

5. Bridal Belt: Several seasons ago, bridal belts did not exist. The belts were sewn onto the gowns and chosen by the designers. Today, we have more belt options than we can count. Some of the tiny beaded belts can even be used as hair jewels or headbands. Belts accentuate the waist and can add color to your final look.

Haute Bride Couture

It’s Official, The Launch of Uptown Bridal Suite

Heather Batt — Sat, 30 Mar 2013 00:47:33 +0000

Its official…Hayden Olivia Bridal is thrilled to launch The Uptown Bridal Suite The suite is every bride’s solution to the question, “Where will we get ready the day of the wedding?” The ladies at Hayden Olivia and several of the Queen City’s top vendors have collaborated to provide a private and relaxing environment where brides, the bridal party and family members enjoy the hours leading up to the wedding. Peek through the new Website, contact us, send us feedback… several brides have already made their reservation and we look forward to hosting you at the Uptown Bridal Suite.

The Uptown Bridal Suite

What About the 5 Hours Before?

Heather Batt — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 18:42:35 +0000

A while back we posted a “stay tuned” message about a project we have been working on. See Here Well, we have arrived at COMPLETE and are dying to share! We think it will be the place you will want to spend the hours before you say ‘I do”…we know we want to hang out in the this beautiful space when we should be working! We have some web tweaking to take care of, a few last minute decor items to place and a list of excited brides to call…we are going to hold our breath till Friday- the launch of the website and to accept new bookings. Here is a little sneak peek…

A Huge Welcome to Spring

Heather Batt — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 14:15:25 +0000

Around here, we want to shout a huge “WELCOME” to spring. Gone are the days of wearing warm clothes from head to toe. We are excited for maxi dress and sandal weather…speaking of maxi dresses, lets take a peek at a group of fun finds that scream spring and that could be chosen for a spring affair. Ahhh…if only the 75 degree weather would stick around for good! Do you think we are in the clear for warm weather here on out…we sure hope so!

New Arrivals

Heather Batt — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 20:09:29 +0000

It happens almost weekly, a little like celebrating a holiday around here…should we give the arrival day a title or name? All silliness aside, we are over the top excited to share a few new arrivals with you. Well maybe not a few, more like 5-6 gowns. No need to dream about slipping into the gown from your Ipad or Laptop, now you can slip in to see for yourself! Heads up: Saturday appointments are booking about two weeks in advance and week day appointments about one week out. Of course this fluctuates from week to week…in other words, plan ahead for this special appointment! Do you have your’s booked? Here is a sneak peek!

Style Jim Hjelm 8313: Ivory tulle ball gown, Alencon lace elongated bodice with three quarter sleeve,covered buttons and chapel train

Style Hayley Paige 6303: Ivory dropped waist A-line bridal gown with lace embellished bodice and organza sweetheart draped neckline with crisscross straps in back lacing into a bow and chapel train

Anne Barge Trunk Show

Heather Batt — Wed, 06 Mar 2013 15:40:34 +0000

We are thrilled to host our Anne Barge trunk show this weekend. We love that we can share these collections with our Queen City brides. Traveling from out of town for your appointment? What a treat, we can’t wait to meet you. Appointments for this collection are available Thurs-Sat. While the weekend is booked, we never like to turn brides away- still give us a call and we will do our very best to accommodate! Have you previewed the collection?

Oscar Favorites, Achieve the Look

Heather Batt — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 18:30:36 +0000

Sad to report that I did not get to see these gorgeous gowns grace the red carpet last night at the Oscars, however happy to report that I was glued to the web and social media outlets early this morning to take in all of the details. Over here at Hayden Olivia, we have a love for clean lines, traditional style and love gowns that take up the aisle- here are a few favorites from last night. Brides are hopefully thinking, “How can I achieve this look for my wedding day?” Very achievable- in fact there are already gowns hanging in our gallery that will surely give you the red carpet look you desire. Here is a little bridal Oscar eye candy for this Monday afternoon. Shall we?

Jennifer Aniston in Valentino, Oscars 2013 (AP/Invision)

Francie by Coren Moore

Jennifer Lawrence In Dior Haute Couture, Oscars 2013 (AP/Invision)

Modern Trousseau Reagan

Hayley Paige 6256

Maria Menounos in Romona Keveza, Oscars 2013 (Getty)

Ramona Keveza Couture

Real Bride Feature

Heather Batt — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 11:09:02 +0000

Our heart skipped a beat when we received Carolyn’s photos…what a gracious and sweet client to work with, we all adored her!

A little note from Carolyn…

“I wanted to send a THANK YOU for the time and effort that went into finding and preparing my dress for our 10/13/12 wedding — from the “hey, we received a dress on loan and it may be a perfect fit for you” call to the finishing touches and custom work done on my belt/sash.

The intimacy of your boutique is a charmer in itself. Add your wonderful team into the mix and I had nothing short of an amazing experience. Every bride-to-be should receive the same level of attention and warmth, so no surprise that I’ve recommended Hayden Olivia to recently-engaged friends.

A perfectly gorgeous Fall celebration at Claxton Farm near Asheville (Photo credit: Caroline Ghetes)

Just the Right Touch

Heather Batt — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 01:25:51 +0000

First look, accessory and first fitting appointments can be some of the most fun when brides are determined to pick out the accessory, veil or shoe that provides “just the right touch!” While the department stores and online resources do a fabulous job of providing these items, we try to seek out unique, can’t find elsewhere items. Our veil designers will make any custom changes upon request, our jewelry designers will take a necklace and transform it into a bracelet and shoes- well, we have seen some fabulous ones as of late. Here are just a few of our recent favorites. How will you finish your look?

Haute Bride

Veil Trends

Jennifer Leigh

Shoulders Covered?

Heather Batt — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 18:49:14 +0000

We have had numerous requests for purposeful, stylish, non-matronly options for covering shoulders and arms for the ceremony. This gets tricky- some boleros, capes, and jackets can be boxy, shoulder-paddish looking, gapping in all the wrong places, cover too much of the goods and just simply do not work. We put one of our designers to the test and they over delivered. You name the shape, we now have a sample for you to try. We just received several gorgeous pieces that honestly- could not be more perfect! Can’t wait to share these with you. Do you plan to cover your shoulders and if so, do you have an appointment at HOB in the next few weeks- we hope so!

Dos for Dress Shopping

Heather Batt — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 19:02:37 +0000

Preparing for your bridal appointment? We know- you want to know what to bring and how to prepare, right? We have been doing this for almost 5 years now and have learned a few dos and donts to make your gown experience top notch! We are going to share some dos with you today, all hopefully helpful and will assist in helping you to have the most enjoyable experience possible!

Do’s of Bridal Gown Shopping:

1. Don’t Sweat your Arrival. Give yourself some time to find the boutique/store. Parking may be close to the store or you may have to grab a space in a parking garage. If you are 2 minutes late- its ok! Upon arrival, use the potty, grab a water, settle your belongings and take a deep breath! It will be fun, promise!

2. Wear tan or Nude. There is no way around it, you will see dark color undies under these gorgeous gowns. It will throw you off and make you wish over and over that you thought more about your undergarment choices for the day!

3. Leave the Outspoken Friend at Home. Don’t get us wrong, we love friends. HOWEVER, you do not need an outspoken friend who wants to check in on every gown- this is your day and often your day with the few whose opinions matter the most!

4. Go with it! If the consultant offers you a bra, take it! If she has a suggestion, listen. These consultants are trained and very knowledgable. Go with it! Let them make suggestions, let them zip you and clip you and do all of the leg work. Its what they are there for and its what they love to do.

5. Know your Gown Budget. Save yourself and the consultant the misery of trying on gowns that are out of your budget and then falling in love and feeling stuck! Know your budget, share your budget and try gowns on within the range! You will be very happy that you did!

6. Eat before you Arrive! They do not have medics on staff and its best that you do not pass out on this special day!

7. Say Yes! If you love the shop, love your consultant, like the price, LOVE the gown and have no reason to keep on shopping then say yes to that dress. We find that bride who try on upwards of 20+ gowns get confused and frustrated with the gown process. If all the pieces fit, say yes! You will be so glad to move on to other details of your big day!

8. Snap a FEW. Snap a few shots of your favorite gowns if the shop allows. Perhaps a few shots is sufficient! 100 pictures from your shopping trip is not needed and will just fill up your Iphone gallery!

9. Take in the Moment. You are getting married! Take it all in- try on a princess ball gown! Take a picture with your favorite people! Smile- its not that bad!! Enjoy the process and make some great memories.

10. Accessory Appointment Needed. A lofty goal would be to choose your gown AND all accessories in one appointment. Often it takes a second accessory appointment to pull your entire look together. Breathe- choose the gown first and then let the rest of the details fall into place!

Photo: Apple Brides

Do you have a Wedding App?

Heather Batt — Wed, 30 Jan 2013 02:47:32 +0000

I often wonder how brides “keep it all together?” Almost 8 years ago, I had a large white 3 ring binder that I would “haul” to all of my vendor meetings and appointments. Now days, its an iPad, iPad mini or iPhone that holds all of the important details together and in one place. Where do you keep all of your planning details? Are you sticking to a bridal budget and tracking? Have you allotted an amount for your gown? Have you chosen all of your vendors and saved their information? Here are 3 bridal apps that we found to be noteworthy!

1. The Knot Ultimate Wedding Planner

2. BRIDES Wedding Genius

3. The Wedding Row

Hope Doll Dress by Coren Moore

Heather Batt — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 18:00:38 +0000

We are excited to introduce a very special new product. Coren Moore is now making their flower girl dresses to fit 18” dolls (think American Girl). This is a perfect thank you present for all of those adorable little flower girls out there.

There is a story with this product. Coren Moore is donating 100% of all profits to organizations fighting pediatric cancer. Coren Moore’s daughter Chloe was diagnosed with pediatric cancer in 2010. She is doing extremely well and her prognosis is excellent, but unfortunately pediatric cancer continues to touch many of us in different ways. Coren has spent countless hours trying to think of ways to help fight this disease, there are so many areas of need, it has been hard to even get started. Coren has decided to focus on donating money towards research and clinical trials, and has identified several organizations that are working directly towards finding treatments for children’s cancers.

Please call the boutique for more information and to order!

A One Minute Guide to Fabric

Heather Batt — Tue, 22 Jan 2013 15:38:15 +0000

When you slip into a gown at Hayden Olivia you will feel a cool soft silk against your skin. Many brides comment on softness, comfiness…etc. ”Why?” you ask. Almost 100% of the gowns carried in our gallery are made here in the USA and are made of 100% fabrics. Most gowns in the bridal world these days are mass produced overseas. We are honored to support the designers who are designing, creating, manufacturing, sewing and living right here on our soil! Here is a quick one minute guide to fabrics and what you might find here at Hayden Olivia. Do you know the difference between Mikado and Taffeta?

Lace

There are three popular types of lace being used in bridal today. French Aloncon, Chantilly and Guipure. Aloncon has a cording and is sturdy, Chantilly is flat, soft and loose and Guipure is thick, heavier and has more structure.

Satin

Satin is made from silk and has one shiny face. You have heard of silk satin, duchess satin and bridal satin.

Silk Chiffon

Chiffon is often layered or ruched on a gown and is described as soft and transparent. Chiffon is one of the lightest weight fabrics to wear in bridal.

Silk Charmeuse

Charmeuse is very light weight, clings to the body and is know to give brides a very fitted, hourglass shape.

Silk Mikado

Mikado is a slim blend that is heavier than pure silk and has more weight and structure. Mikado has a sheen and the face of the fabric has a pick or line pattern showcasing the blend of fabrics.

Silk Organza

Organza (one of our favorites) is lightweight and has lots of movements. Organza is perfect for warm weather events and is often ruched or hand draped to give a billowy look.

Silk Taffeta

Taffeta is slightly ribbed or has silk markings. Taffeta is often rushed or gathered and known for holding its shape.

Tulle

2 words…princess ballgown! Tulle is less expensive as many of the other fabrics. It is frilly and girly- like the tutu you wore as a young girl. Perfect for a bride who wants to make a statement, wants a dramatic effect or has a large venue.

Gown Shopping 101- By Appointment

Heather Batt — Wed, 16 Jan 2013 16:44:22 +0000

Many brides ask on a regular basis, “Can I just stop by?” This question often puzzles us for many reasons. Of course you can stop by and see the boutique, peek at the gorgeous gowns, say hello..etc, however this drop in will be unproductive. Shopping for a wedding gown or even taking a look at a boutiques inventory takes time and resources! Here are five reasons why our bridal boutique is By Appointment!

1. ”Dropping In” will lead to several questions that arise and we always love to have a consultant available to answer your questions and offer our expert advice.

2. ”Stopping By” will trigger a inner desire to just try on one. We absolutely want to make sure that we have a dressing room available for you. These days, we have been know to use the seamstress’s studio as a dressing room…in other words, it is busy!

3. ”Swinging In” will most likely interrupt another bride’s appointment. We want to say hello and welcome you to the boutique, however this can become hard if we are not expecting you!

4. A “Quick Purchase” does not exist in bridal! All items carried at Hayden Olivia are made to order. In the event you have limited ordering time, we do have samples available to purchase…these accessory decisions take time, definitely appointment worthy!

5. We are happy to do a ” Quick Style Check” however this is not quick! We have over 150 couture gowns and our inventory changes on a weekly basis! Often this takes a few minutes at a computer, double checking in a designer’s book, looking through the gown gallery…you get the picture!

We have posted normal business hours. These hours are fair game for a bridal appointment. We set aside 2 hours, reserve one of our large dressing rooms and make a consultant available to you for the duration of your appointment. Ok- now there are always exceptions! Will we turn you away- no! Will we be rude and not speak to you- no! Some of our most favorite clients happen to have been walk- in appointments. They were fortunate in that there was a consultant and dressing room available. If this is the case, SHOP away!! If it does not work out, we will very kindly ask you to book an appointment at a later time or date. Do you have your gown appointment booked? Happy Shopping!

Photo by Jeremie Barlow

Real Bride Feature

Heather Batt — Wed, 09 Jan 2013 19:18:15 +0000

We have several gorgeous brides to share with you from 2012. We are going to begin with the sweet Franks family!

From Katie’s mom…”Katie was the most beautiful bride. Everyone loved both of her dresses and the bridesmaids dresses as well. Thank you for help making Katie’s wedding perfect.”

We wish the happy couple a long life of happiness and blessings!

Exciting News, Stay Tuned

Heather Batt — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 14:01:34 +0000

Good Morning lovelies…I know, the blog has been quiet for a bit. This means two things…1. we have been busy meeting all of the newly engaged brides for 2013 and helping them find their dream gown and 2. there is some very exciting news around HOB that we are dying to share. A little more hard work, design, set up and it will be go time! Stay tuned for the big announcement- it may be just the thing you were missing as you plan your big day!! eeeeek! In the mean time, here is a little sneak peek of several new arrivals that we are head over heels for at HOB!

Ginny

Nova

Leah

New Years Inspiration

Heather Batt — Thu, 27 Dec 2012 21:06:49 +0000

We hope that you had a very Merry Christmas! As the new year approaches and you begin to think about your festive new years attire, we started to prepare for the new year with a little sparkly inspiration. We have had several fittings of the last several weeks and most brides are loving the beaded belts. Do you plan to add a bit of grand sparkle to your wedding day attire? Do tell!

greenweddingshoes.com

weddingdresses.com

100layercake

Anne Barge Trunk Show Through New Years

Heather Batt — Sat, 22 Dec 2012 18:22:26 +0000

If you have had your eye on a gorgeous Ann Barge gown, Hayden Olivia is hosting the collection through New Years! Beautiful silk gowns, lace gowns, two pieces, minis…all gorgeous! If gown shopping is on your agenda in the next week, add an appointment at Hayden Olivia to your list so you can slip into these gorgeous frocks! Call ahead to speak with a constant about the style your are looking for and we will pull several suggestions for your appointment! We look forward to meeting!

Its a wonderful time of year!

Heather Batt — Wed, 12 Dec 2012 21:17:08 +0000

Where is time going? December is flying by, tons of gown arrivals and new sample gowns arriving…Its a wonderful time of year!

We are celebrating two gorgeous collections this weekend, Anne Barge and Tara Keely. If gown shopping is on your agenda this weekend, make sure that an appointment at HOB is on your list! We will do out best to find an appointment time for you!

Now onto a little bit of winter inspiration! I always dreamed of a winter wedding…are you getting married this month? Do you plan to wear a fur? Do share!

100layercake.com

castlemanor.blogspot.com

bride.net

corbingurkin.com