 |
|
|
|
| 11/19/2008 10:07:00 AM | Email this article • Print this article |
|
| Gabrielle Sweetland models a gown by Mori Lee provided by Classy Concepts Design at the Babes in Toyland Fashion Show Nov. 9. The gown can be rented for $69. |
| | Classy Concepts Design | 3000 Joe DiMaggio Blvd., Suite 36
Web: classyconceptsdesign.com
Owner: Sue Gordon
Employees: Two part-time and an assistant manager
Specialty: Window coverings and formal wear
|
|
Classy Concepts helping brides rethink options
MARCIAL GUAJARDO
Managing Editor
The owner of a local bridal boutique is hoping to do her part to help area residents cope with tough economic times.
Sue Gordon offers formal wear rentals at Classy Concepts Design, which carries the mantra, "own your memories, rent your dress." Gordon began Classy Concepts in 1998 in Oklahoma, but now operates out of a Joe DiMaggio Boulevard location.
"With the economic times the way they are, a lot of brides are rethinking their options," Gordon said. "Don't spend a fortune because it's just one day."
Wedding costs can soar into the tens of thousands, with local weddings averaging between $1,500 and $1,800 a pop, Gordon said.
But at Classy Concepts, brides-to-be each have recently been spending about $199 for a gown and related expenses, she added.
Formal wear - which includes tuxedos - is rented for a week at a time and Classy Concepts presents each bride with a 6-inch by 6-inch piece of fabric with a three-letter monogram as a keepsake.
The boutique offers its own fashion line, geared at affordability, but also carries designer gowns such as Mori Lee, Casablanca, Maggie Sattero, Da Vinci, Alfred Angelo and Raylia.
Models in the recent Babes in Toyland Market and Style Show, hosted by the Chaparral Women's Club, wore Classy Concepts formal wear. One model exhibited a Mori Lee gown geared for balls and teen celebrations, that can be rented for $69 and purchased for $189, even though it would normally sell for "a lot more," Gordon noted.
Gordon started up Classy Concepts as a design shop specializing in anything custom-made, she said. The business, however, evolved to offer "anything and everything" for formal occasions, including rentals, veils, accessories, tuxedos and more. The store also handles window coverings.
The current showroom is primarily geared toward women and children's wear.
The business moved to Round Rock three years ago, but relocated to 3000 Joe DiMaggio Blvd., Suite 36 from another shopping center earlier this year.
Gordon says she has plans to expand the business to the Dallas and south Austin markets next year.
"I think we're quickly growing," she said. "We're already outgrowing our space and looking to go into other markets."
Besides weddings, Classy Concepts handles other special occasions, such as proms. Prom dresses can be rented for $29 to $99 and now is the time to get orders in, she noted.
"The sooner the better."
The boutique offers fabrics in 65 colors and sizes 0-30. Alterations can be done, even on rentals.
For more information, visit classyconceptsdesign.com.
|
Article Comment Submission Form
|
|
|
|
|
NEWS
