Flutter Down the Aisle

Written By Shane Lueck
Photography by Heidi Garrido, HM Photography
Produced by Andy Lien
Hair and Makeup by Brett Dorrian Artistry Studios

Though Flutter Bridal Boutique has been in business for ten years, current owner Kolby Fahlsing bought the business in June of 2013. From its inception, Flutter has filled a void for brides looking for wedding and bridesmaid dresses that are contemporary.

“Even 10 years ago, there were plenty of brides who were looking for a more modern twist, maybe not wanting the matching dresses that were traditional. Or maybe they wanted matching dresses, but not necessarily the styles that were available,” says Laura Bredice, Flutter’s manager. “And above all, it was about creating an experience. Flutter has always strived for the best possible customer service for all our clients; brides, bridesmaids and all of their family and friends. The wedding planning process can be stressful, and we hope to not only help our brides find exactly what they are looking for, but to create memories!”

Under Fahlsing’s leadership, Flutter has grown immensely. The boutique has moved to its new location in the carriage house of the Semple Mansion, almost tripling the square footage. The bridal collection has also expanded, carrying lines exclusive to Flutter in the midwest.

As Bredice says, Flutter is a female-owned and -operated bridal store in Minneapolis with a focus on creating the best possible experience for brides throughout their entire dress shopping process, from first appointment all the way through dress pick-up. “We cater to brides looking for something special,” she says. “Ethereal, whimsical, classic, and timeless; our collection captures the best of it all. We also have a huge variety of bridesmaid dresses, mother of the bride and groom, and flower girl.”

According to Bredice, simplicity, color, and comfort are on the rise in the bridal world. “Our brides want a dress that represents them, that they wear; not that wears them,” she says. “We like to ask our brides how they want to feel. And usually, they want to feel like the most beautiful version of their everyday selves. Brides are loving delicate styles: open backs, lace, light fabrics and the ability to customize their looks.”

That customization can come in countless variations. As Bredice says, in today’s bridal world, there aren’t any rules. “If a bride wants something unconventional; great! If she wants something very traditional; wonderful!” she says. “Flutter’s style is softer, lighter, and more ethereal overall. Embellishments for us are provided in floral appliques, subtle beading, belts, and lace accessories. We hope that our brides will all look back at their photos years down the road and feel like their gown is still beautiful and contemporary.”

Even if a gown isn’t in the works, Flutter has something for everyone. Jumpsuits, Bredice says, have made a big splash on the bridal scene, and Flutter offers several jumpsuits from a few of their designers. Bredice shares, “It takes a certain bride to want to wear something a bit more daring. We are also seeing a rise in separates! Whether that be crop-top style with a skirt, or a bodice with a skirt, our brides love the option of customizing.”

Of course, as with any decision in relation to your wedding day, doing some research ahead of your appointment about which styles catch your eye can be incredibly helpful. And keep an open mind. Bredice notes that until you are actually in the dress, you won’t know if the style actually works for you and your body type. But, having a jumping off point is helpful. Additionally, have a good idea of what you are comfortable spending; you never want to try on (and fall in love with!) a gown that is completely out of your price range.

“If you are lucky, you will find several gowns that make you feel bridal and beautiful,” she says. “But, at the end of the day, there will be one gown that you compare all others to, and that will be it!”

And on appointment day, Bredice cautions against bringing too many people along, maybe just one or two. “It’s hard to please everyone,” she warns. “Our goal is to make sure the bride chooses the gown she loves best; not what her entourage of friends and family want her to wear.” Whether one bride or both brides will be wearing gowns, be sure to bring along the people whose opinions matter most.

With all of the TV shows about wedding dress shopping, Bredice sees brides come in with plenty of misconceptions about what the process will be like. She shares, “I can’t speak for all dress shops, but at Flutter, we want you to have fun! You are welcome to try on as many dresses as you want during your appointment. We are happy to be as involved or uninvolved as you want. And as far as knowing it’s ‘the one’ because you start to cry? That might be the biggest misconception! If you cry, great! If you don’t, great!  But don’t let that be your deciding factor.”

From start to finish, Flutter is here to help you create and execute your bridal vision, whatever that may be. “We love working with all types of brides, whether your wedding is big or small, casual or beyond glamorous!” Bredice says. “Our goal has always been and will always be to make you feel absolutely beautiful on your wedding day.”

Flutter Boutique
104 W Franklin Ave. #200, Minneapolis
612-216-1926
www.flutterboutique.com

On Zsuzsi: Daniel Hechter linen coat ($175), Chiari trouser ($145), Modena shirt ($25), Ike Behar pocket square ($30) and tie ($20) from Milbern Clothing.

On Cheena: Heidi Elnora “Ashley Diaz” dress ($3850) and Jaclyn Jordan “Natasha” belt ($480) worn as headpiece from Flutter Boutique; Bouquet ($160–$210) with sliced wood spheres, blushing bracket, vendella roses, hypericum berry, and agonis from Luna Vinca.