A couple of the treat items provided to the Wedding Suite open house attendees
A couple weeks ago I mentioned Paper Passionista was attending the opening event for the new "Wedding Suite" at Nordstrom's downtown Seattle flagship store. I did attend and have been waiting for a break in my invitation appointments and other wedding shows to report on the details of what I learned. I had a delightful visit with one of the three Wedding Stylists at the Wedding Suite, Jenny Van Norstrand. With such a full house I was honored to be given a one-on-one tour and run-down of all their lines and services. Jenny is clearly enthusiastic about the new wedding department, and wanted to make sure I knew that for all of them service is key! She said all wedding stylists love to work with brides, even if they get their gowns elsewhere and just come there for all the wonderful add-ons they have available.
The range of dresses available for both brides and bridesmaids was impressive, and even more amazing was the extremely reasonable pricing of the gowns. Bridal gowns currently in stock range from $200 - $1400, and even the least expensive gown is very nice. There are long gowns, short gowns, sleeves or not, and designer names that most anyone who follows fashion will recognize. The two gowns below represent the least expensive and the most expensive options:
This ivory gown by JS Collections (shown front and back) is an amazing $198
This lovely patterned white gown by Nicole Miller is most expensive at only $1320
If a short more casual dress is your preference there are plenty of darling options for you
More short options for both the bride and her bridesmaids
I was shown the backroom where there are lovely spacious dressing rooms, a consultation desk, a large mirror and sitting area for those with appointments to get comfy, and accessory displays perfectly completing "the look". The even more amazing thing Jenny shared with me is they encourage brides to take photos of dresses they're considering for their bridesmaids and themselves as they're trying on. This is completely opposite of many gown salons you hear about that allow no photos until after a gown has been purchased. The typical length of the gown appointment is 90 minutes. There are many gowns available to choose from in stock, but even more can be purchased by viewing the gowns online. I asked about availability of gowns for the plus size bride and was assured there are gowns both online and a couple of in-stock gowns in this size range as well. Then there are dresses for moms of the bride and groom, and even options available for flower girls and ring bearers.
Above are a couple views of the "backroom" where fitting and selecting take place.
If you have a bridesmaid interested in a "signature" piece, this darling red ruffled dress from Notte by Marchesa is sure to be remembered. Short and strapless with swirly ruffles on the skirt, it is $795.
For dresses available in multiple styles and colors in a versatile elegant chiffon, Jenny's personal favorite is the dress selection below from Amsale, reasonably priced starting at $280-$290
The motto for the Wedding Suite is "Love is all you need. We take care of the rest." After seeing all they have available I know you're in good hands. In closing here are a few more photos of the many accessory items available for you, including shoes, jewelry, wraps, and hair accents. If you don't see it, just ask. They seem to have it all covered!

To schedule your appointment with one of the Nordstrom Wedding Stylists call 206.628.2111, extension 1730 or 1.888.300.1295. To schedule online visit nordstrom.com/weddings. You can also get personalized service from a Wedding Stylist via Live Chat, email or on the phone.
One side note: All photography for this piece was done by me, and photography isn't my area of expertise, so please make an appointment and go visit the Wedding Suite at Nordstrom in person for a much better view and expert personalized friendly service.