Best Bridal Stores in Atlanta: Where to Find Your Dream Dress
Planning a wedding in Atlanta means you have access to some of the best bridal boutiques in the Southeast. From luxury designer salons in Buckhead to modern, budget-conscious studios on the Westside, Atlanta’s bridal scene is varied, vibrant, and very local.
This guide walks you through some of the top bridal stores in Atlanta, GA, what makes each one different, and how to choose the right shop for your style, budget, and timeline.
How to Choose a Bridal Store in Atlanta
Before you start booking appointments, it helps to understand how Atlanta’s bridal shops usually differ. Consider:
- Style focus – classic and traditional, modern and minimalist, boho, couture, or size-inclusive.
- Budget range – many Atlanta boutiques carry gowns from about $1,200 up to designer pieces over $8,000.
- Location & parking – traffic on I‑75/85 and GA‑400 can affect your day; choose an area convenient for you and your bridal party.
- Appointment style – some shops offer private suites and one‑on‑one stylists; others have a more open showroom feel.
- Lead time – made‑to‑order gowns can take 6–9+ months, so plan with your wedding date in mind.
Quick Comparison of Popular Atlanta Bridal Stores
The details below are approximate and can change, but this overview gives you a sense of how different shops compare.
| Bridal Store (Atlanta) | General Vibe / Focus | Typical Price Range* | Area / Neighborhood |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bridals by Lori | Large selection, TV‑famous, traditional + couture | Mid–high to luxury | Sandy Springs / Buckhead |
| The Sentimentalist | Indie, romantic, boho, modern | Mid to upper‑mid | Westside (Howell Mill) |
| Kelly’s Closet | Artistic, non‑traditional, boutique | Mid to upper‑mid | Candler Park / Intown |
| Anne Barge Atelier | Couture, classic, made‑to‑order | High / luxury | Buckhead |
| Suzanne Kasler / Nardos & other couture salons | High fashion, statement gowns | High / luxury | Buckhead corridor |
| Lovely Bride Atlanta | Trendy, cool‑girl, size‑inclusive options | Mid to upper‑mid | Westside |
| BHLDN (Anthropologie) | Romantic, ready‑to‑wear, mix of prices | Lower‑mid to mid | Lenox / Perimeter areas* |
| David’s Bridal (multiple locations) | Large chain, broad sizing, budget options | Budget to mid | Multiple (Dunwoody, Kennesaw, etc.) |
*Price ranges and exact locations can change; check directly with each store for current information.
Iconic & Long‑Established Atlanta Bridal Salons
Bridals by Lori (Sandy Springs / Buckhead)
One of Atlanta’s best‑known bridal stores, Bridals by Lori has been a major destination for decades and is often recognized from television.
Why Atlanta brides go here:
- Huge selection of gowns, from more affordable lines to top designer collections.
- Strong focus on classic, traditional, and Southern‑inspired bridal looks.
- Separate salons for bridal, bridesmaids, and men’s formalwear, which can simplify planning.
Good to know:
- Appointments are usually required, especially on weekends.
- Because it’s popular, the showroom can be busy; weekday appointments are often calmer.
- Located near the GA‑400 and I‑285 interchange, convenient if guests are coming from around the metro area.
Anne Barge Atelier (Buckhead)
For brides looking for a custom or couture experience, Anne Barge Atelier in Buckhead represents a more exclusive side of the Atlanta bridal market.
What to expect:
- Gowns are generally classic, elegant, and tailored, often with clean lines and luxurious fabrics.
- Many pieces are made‑to‑order, which can mean longer lead times and higher price points.
- Service tends to be more personalized and private.
Best suited for:
- Brides with a higher budget looking for heirloom‑quality gowns.
- Those planning a formal or black‑tie Atlanta wedding at venues like the Piedmont Driving Club, Atlanta History Center, or luxury hotels in Midtown and Buckhead.
Stylish Boutique Bridal Shops In‑Town
The Sentimentalist (Westside)
Located in Atlanta’s Westside design district, The Sentimentalist is a favorite for brides who want something romantic, effortless, and a little different from the traditional ballgown.
Highlights:
- Carefully curated designers with boho, vintage‑inspired, and modern minimalist styles.
- Often praised for a calm, low‑pressure atmosphere.
- Good option if you plan a Ponce City Market, Westside, warehouse, or outdoor garden wedding and want a dress to match that vibe.
Tips:
- Parking in the Westside area can be busy on weekends; build in extra time.
- Many gowns are made‑to‑order, so shop at least 7–9 months before your wedding if you want the full range of choices.
Kelly’s Closet (Candler Park)
In the Candler Park neighborhood, Kelly’s Closet is known for being artistic, original, and non‑traditional.
Why local brides choose it:
- Designers that lean toward whimsical, ethereal, and fashion‑forward.
- Good fit if you’re having a non‑traditional ceremony—for example, at a historic intown venue, a loft, or a creative space along the BeltLine.
- The shop is smaller and feels more intimate than large salons, which some brides prefer.
Planning notes:
- Since it’s in a walkable intown neighborhood, parking can be more limited than suburban centers.
- Like many boutiques, appointments are standard, and guest counts may be limited in smaller fitting areas.
Lovely Bride Atlanta (Westside)
Lovely Bride is a national boutique brand with an Atlanta location on the Westside, bringing a very “modern, cool‑girl” aesthetic.
Key features:
- On‑trend designers with unique necklines, sleeves, and textures.
- Often carries expanded size ranges, which can be helpful if you want to try on samples closer to your street size.
- Fits especially well with modern city weddings—think rooftops, industrial venues, or chic hotel spaces in Midtown and Downtown.
Consider if you:
- Love following bridal trends on social media.
- Want gowns that feel current but not overly traditional.
Budget‑Friendly & Chain Bridal Stores Around Atlanta
David’s Bridal (Multiple Metro Atlanta Locations)
For brides on a tight timeline or smaller budget, David’s Bridal locations around the Atlanta area can be practical.
Common metro‑area locations (these may change) include:
- Near Perimeter Mall / Dunwoody (northside)
- Additional stores in surrounding suburbs such as Kennesaw, Snellville, or Buford
Pros:
- Wide range of prices, often including sales and off‑the‑rack options.
- Large size range, which can make it easier to try on dresses closer to your actual size.
- Bridesmaid dresses, veils, shoes, and accessories in one place.
Things to keep in mind:
- The experience is more showroom‑style, with multiple brides trying dresses at the same time.
- You may want to visit during weekday mornings for a less crowded feel, especially during peak spring and fall wedding seasons in Atlanta.
Department Store & Ready‑to‑Wear Options
Some department stores and national retailers around Atlanta, especially in areas like Lenox Square, Phipps Plaza, and Perimeter Mall, occasionally offer bridal or white‑dress collections suitable for:
- Civil ceremonies at the Fulton County Probate Court
- Intimate backyard or park weddings (like Piedmont Park or Grant Park)
- Second looks or rehearsal dinner outfits
These options can be appealing if you:
- Have a very short timeline
- Prefer a more casual or simple dress
- Want a backup or second outfit that isn’t a full‑scale bridal gown
Plus‑Size & Size‑Inclusive Bridal Options in Atlanta
Many Atlanta brides look specifically for size‑inclusive bridal stores so they can try on gowns that actually fit, rather than only imagining alterations.
For better size inclusivity, consider:
- Larger multi‑brand salons with dedicated plus‑size sections.
- Boutiques that advertise extended sample sizes (larger than the traditional bridal 10/12 sample).
- Chain stores, which often carry a wider in‑store size range.
When booking:
- Ask what sizes their sample gowns run in.
- Mention your street size so they can guide you toward the best appointment time and consultant.
- Clarify whether there’s a separate plus‑size area or dedicated stylist experience if that matters to you.
Where to Go for Bridal Alterations in Atlanta
Even the best bridal store won’t matter if you can’t get your gown tailored properly. Many Atlanta brides use:
- In‑house alteration services (offered by some boutiques and salons).
- Independent seamstresses around the metro, especially in Buckhead, Sandy Springs, Decatur, and Marietta.
- Tailors who specialize in formalwear and beading for more intricate gowns.
Helpful tips:
- Ask your bridal store for trusted alteration referrals if they do not offer alterations themselves.
- Start alterations about 2–3 months before your wedding if possible, especially for complex dresses.
- If your wedding is outside Atlanta (for example, in North Georgia vineyards or at the coast), plan fittings so your final appointment is still in town before you travel.
Practical Tips for Bridal Shopping in Atlanta
To get the most out of the city’s bridal scene:
1. Time Your Appointments with Traffic in Mind
Atlanta traffic is a real factor. When booking:
- Choose late morning or early afternoon slots to avoid rush hour.
- If your bridal party is coming from different parts of the metro (Southside, Eastside, Cobb, Gwinnett), pick a central area like Buckhead or Midtown.
- On big event days (Falcons games, concerts, festivals), build in extra travel time, especially near Downtown and Midtown.
2. Plan for the Weather
Atlanta’s weather can affect what feels comfortable:
- Summer weddings: lighter fabrics, breathable linings, and less‑structured gowns can be more comfortable outdoors.
- Fall and spring: layers, sleeves, or detachable overskirts work well for variable temperatures.
- If you’re having photos at Piedmont Park, the BeltLine, or the Botanical Garden, think about walking comfort and how easily the gown moves.
3. Consider Your Venue Style
Match your dress to your Atlanta venue:
- Historic homes and museums (Swan House, Atlanta History Center): classic, tailored gowns.
- Loft and warehouse spaces (Westside, Old Fourth Ward, Castleberry Hill): modern, sleek, or architectural styles.
- Outdoor venues and gardens (Cator Woolford Gardens, Callanwolde, local parks): lighter, flowy silhouettes.
4. Ask the Right Questions When You Call
Before you book an appointment, it can help to ask:
- What is your price range for most gowns?
- How far in advance should I order?
- What sizes are your samples?
- Do you offer in‑house alterations, or can you recommend local tailors?
- Is there an appointment fee or cancellation policy?
- How many guests can I bring?
Making the Most of Atlanta’s Bridal Scene
Whether you want a dramatic couture gown in Buckhead, a boho dress from a Westside boutique, or a budget‑friendly option from a larger chain, Atlanta offers choices for nearly every style and price point.
By narrowing down your style, budget, and preferred neighborhood, and by planning around the city’s traffic and seasons, you can use this guide to target the best bridal stores in Atlanta for your particular vision and timeline.
