David’s Bridal is considered one of the most well-known bridal corporations of all time, and the company has had its fair share of ups and downs. Today, one in every three brides choose the affordable and accessible company for their big day. From bridal and formalwear to accessories and décor, David’s Bridal is a one-stop shop for brides-to-be.
How it All Began for David’s Bridal
In 1950, David’s Bridal was just a small salon in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Owner David Reisberg offered the brides of the day exactly what they were looking for—ballgowns and full skirts. Sleeves were a big ask as well, since strapless gowns were considered “risqué”.
By 1972, Reisberg was ready for a change of pace. He went on to become a realtor, and sold the salon to Florida native Phillip Youtie. Youtie bought the salon with hopes of expanding the company but kept the original name.
The company followed the ever-changing trends, switching to simple and less ornate gowns in the ‘70s. True to Youtie’s plan, 18 more salons opened throughout Florida.
Another goal was to cater to brides who valued quality but at an affordable price, and brides loved it. As business continued to grow, Youtie knew he needed more help to dive deeper into the bridal space.
How David’s Bridal Got into the Bridal Industry
It wasn’t until the late ‘80s that Youtie decided to experiment with a different business model, and in 1991, he and his childhood friend Steve Erlbaum opened the first David’s Bridal Warehouse in Hallandale, Florida. The location wasn’t glamorous at all; there was no carpet or dressing rooms.
The difference—bridal gowns of all sizes, not just sample sizes, were sold at half the price other salons were charging. The duo was able to sell off manufacturers’ overstocks at an incredible price.
Over the next nine years, the warehouses slowly started to look like a conventional store and in 1999 the company went public for $100 million. Just a year later, the company was acquired by the May Department Stores Company for a whopping $436 million.
From there, David’s Bridal expanded beyond just a bridal destination and began selling formalwear like prom and bridesmaid dresses. To reach brides of all shapes and sizes, the company decided to continue using plus-size mannequins and offer a wide range of sizes. By 2003, about 20% of all bridal gowns came from David’s Bridal.
The David’s Bridal Empire Today
David’s Bridal continued its well-known success for another decade and was valued at $1 billion in 2012 when Clayton, Dubilier & Rice acquired the company. But as the number of weddings started to decline in the US, the bridal company started to suffer.
As an effort to boost sales, more upscale designers like Vera Wang and Zac Posen were brought in to partner with the company. The company also expanded to offer accessories, shoes, and even wedding décor.
After many efforts, David’s Bridal filed for bankruptcy in 2018. The good news is that the company kept its doors open and didn’t have to close any locations. The company emerged from bankruptcy a year later, and a new CEO, Jim Marcum, came on board in June 2019.
Since day one, Marcum, the current CEO, has become laser-focused on providing a service-first culture at David’s Bridal. That means seamless, enjoyable, and easy shopping for all brides. By bumping up the website and creating new digital engagement tools, brides can now experience David’s Bridal in a whole new way.
The company has also introduced three new lines in the last year: a quinceañera label called Five Roses, a ready-to-wear collection called the Little White Dress Boutique, and a brand-new ready-to-ship bridesmaid collection. David’s Bridal also partnered with designer Betsey Johnson on an exclusive shoe collection.
Along with the latest collections, David’s Bridal offers four other exclusive brands at their salons. The company sells dresses for every formal event imaginable—from bridal and bridesmaid gowns to prom and flower girl dresses.
Each wedding gown takes up to 120 hours to craft and there is artistry in every stitch and sequin. The gowns are versatile, fit to perfection and full of personality.
David’s Bridal is accessible for brides around the world. Brides can purchase gowns online or at one of 300 stores located across the U.S., Canada, the U.K. There are also a few franchise locations in Mexico. Each store has more than 120 styles available to try on, and most styles come in sizes 0-30W.
Our Fave David’s Bridal Looks
Courtesy: davidsbridal.com.
Glamourous, dramatic, and luxurious are just some of the words to describe the Galina Signature bridal collection. This David’s Bridal-exclusive line boasts plunging necklines, stunning details, and feminine silhouettes.
The strapless lace and crepe sheath dress is simply amazing. The beaded bodice is intricate and the lace at the bottom is super romantic.
The tulle sheath dress is another feminine choice. The cap sleeve bodice attached to the illusion neckline is eye-catching, and the sequin skirt and train add a touch of glamor.
Our personal favorite is the illusion long-sleeve dress. The floral lace appliques are a sweet accent, and the dress is full of nearly 4-thousand beads and sequins. Plus, the blush color is super trendy!
Courtesy: davidsbridal.com, davidsbridal.com.
There are so many stunning bridesmaid dresses to choose from, so we decided to feature options from both exclusive bridesmaid collections: Galina Signature and DB Studio.
The first two gowns are from the Galina Signature collection. The off-the-shoulder mermaid gown comes in nearly a dozen colors, but this wine option is beautiful for a fall or winter wedding. The side-ruching is super flattering and the fishtail train is elegant.
Another stunning option is the sequin embroidered dress. The plunging neckline paired with the sexy slit is a show-stopping pick. Your bridesmaids will love it!
The DB studio bridesmaid collection is perfect for the bride wanting beautiful yet affordable options for her girls. Many styles are less than $100 but the dresses are just as amazing.
For the modern bride who loves drama, the illusion deep-V crepe dress is super sophisticated. Plus, the dress comes in an array of colors! For a fun and playful pick, the pleated spaghetti strap satin dress is stunning. Your girls will love the figure-flattering silhouette and it’s a great option for dancing the night away.
