Meet Sara, September Bride of the Month

Next month, our beautiful bride Sara becomes Mrs. Root when she marries her sweetheart, Micheal Root.

Her engagement was a surprise to her, but not to anyone else! Micheal popped the big question on the day the happy couple moved in their first home they bought together. Upon move in, he dropped to one knee accompanied by his and her family and friends.

Sara was driven to Lilla's by our one of a kind customer service and large gown selection. Bridal Consultant Kailyn helped guide Sara to find her breathtaking Maggie Sottero gown. That gown happened to be the fifth one she put on, and it gave her a feeling she is sure to never forget. Her mother and friends were close by to take in the moment.

The wedding will take place on October 21, 2017 at Two Harts Barn in Spring Grove, PA.The barn created the perfect atmosphere for their glamorous, rustic wedding. The couple's colors are berry, navy, and gold.

Congratulations, Sara! We cannot wait to see your pictures from the special day. We wish you both a lifetime of happiness.

Interested in becoming Lilla's Bride of the Month? Apply at:
https://goo.gl/forms/EkIj6RHJyApLz9vG3

Meet Tiffany, August Bride of the Month

Meet Tiffany, August Bride of the Month

Featuring the Marriage of:

Tiffany Barnhart & Ryan McCreary

The McCreary wedding was hosted at Lauxmont Farms, an evening donned with wine, lifelong friends, and a beautiful ceremony. The couple kept is simple with adornments created by their very own family and friends in attendance. Our consultant Nicole helped Tiffany, along with friends and family, to find her dream Allure gown. the gown was ivory with a gold underlay. We loved the party's fun, romantic photos from the night.

An interview with Tiffany:
Tell us about the day you said "yes to the dress".
Lilla's was the first place that I visited when looking for my dress. All of my bridesmaids and mother and future mother in law helped me to choose the perfect dress which happened to be the fifth one that I tried on. I bought it that day!

Tell us more about your wedding.  Ryan had a plan to propose on vacation last June, but he bought the ring and couldn't wait, so he proposed in our new house the day after he brought the ring home. We decided to do a romantic, candle lit evening at Lauxmont Farms. Everyone is chipping in by handling small projects or contributing decorations. We want a cozy, wine filled night!

Photos by Bragg About It Photography





Here's to a lifetime of happiness, McCreary's!

Being Meowied - The Wolfe Wedding

Meet Newlyweds Amanda Tekely and Zach Wolfe

This is their story of Being Meowied

The Engagement Day

Remember that strange snowstorm on Halloween in 2011. It's hard to forget when we spent our Halloweens trapped in an ice/snow storm, but that day will truly go down in history for Amanda and Zach. It was on October 30, 2011 when the pair traveled up to Kings Gap, Carlisle, which is where they visited after their first date. The duo had to take a trek up the mountain to their place because the road was closed. Finally after arriving, the two took a moment on the mansion balcony that overlooked the valley. Like a fairy tale, Amanda turned to see Zach on one knee. "It was a beautiful moment with the peacefulness of the mountains and fresh snow. I couldn't have asked for anything more," said Amanda.

The "Yes" Day

Alright, so Amanda stalked us a little bit. And we love her for it. She had been cyber-stalking a blush Maggie Sottero dress. "I had known for awhile that this was going to be my dress. Dianna from Lilla's Bridal also had a feeling that this was going to be my dress as well. She ordered it in ivory in my size just so I could try it on. Once I saw the dress in person and on, I knew the blush pink gown I had been obsessing over would be my wedding dress".Her best friend, who also served as her matron of honor, was their to seal the deal. Amanda said yes to the blush dress!

The Big Day

The two were married on July 1, 2017 at Children's Lake in Boiling Springs. The day started off with a shower of good luck. Amanda hid from the rain and met trail hikers from all across the country who wished her luck on the big day. The wedding was intimate with only their immediate family and closest friends in attendance. Blush and gold were the colors of the day, as featured on decorations and, of course, the dress. The groom worn suspenders, bow tie and a pub cap. Being cat parents of four, they decided to have a theme of "being meowied". The reception was held at Sophia's at Walden's private dinning space, the concord room. The room was decorated with pink and gold mason jars filled with pink Gerber daisies and a picture of one of their cats on all four tables. The groom (being a chef there) had prepared all the ingredients for the meal the night before the wedding. The guests dined on delicious food, listened to favorite alternative songs, told jokes and enjoyed the company of family and friends. Their first dance was to John Lennon's "Stand by Me."

If we've learned anything from Amanda, it is that sometimes knowing what your heart wants is destiny for dress shopping. Maggie Sottero's Divina was the perfect blush gown to perfect Amanda's day. Don't be afraid to do some hunting ahead of your appointment. With our stock on Pinterest and designer sites linkable to our web page, there is no reason to not do some Internet browsing. 

Here’s to a lifetime of happiness, Wolfe's. 

Meet Elyse, July Bride of the Month

Meet Elyse Hain, the *almost* new Mrs. Gingerich

The Engagement Day

Elyse and Benjamin had been friends for years. The two met in 2007 and began dating in 2014. Ben finally asked Elyse to be his girlfriend at Codorus State Park in Hanover during a picnic lunch. He snuck a little note on a napkin and handed it to her (AW!). In 2016, a few days after they brought home their new puppy, the couple took a trip back to Codorus where he got down on one knee in the exact same spot he asked Elyse to be his girlfriend.

The "Yes" Day

Elyse said, “I went dress shopping on June 4, 2016. It was my parents 33 year wedding anniversary. I chose Lilla's because the dress that I had my eye on was available at this salon. Long before I was engaged, I had been scoping out different colors, themes, dresses, and anything wedding related. When the time came to finally put all of my ideas into action, I knew exactly what I wanted. When I arrived at the salon, I had my soon to be mother in law, my mother, and my fiancé's step mother in tow. I told the consultant exactly what I wanted but that I also wanted to try on similar silhouettes. I tried on 4 dresses total. The first one was too similar to a friend’s bridal gown, the second was too beaded and I feared of having irritated skin by the end of the night, the third was similar to the one I chose so I kept it in mind in case the one I really wanted didn't work out. Then I finally put on the one. I knew as she as lacing up the corset that this was the one. I began to tear up. I walked out of the dressing room and in front of the big mirror and began to cry. It's hard to believe that after all these years of dreaming that this moment was finally here! I said yes to the dress! Lilla's staff and seamstress have been so amazing and wonderful during this time!"

The Big Day

The Gingerich wedding will take July 22, 2017 at John Wright Restaurant.  The theme for the night is a rustic-industrial theme with gears as our main design element. The wedding party will don raspberry dresses, grey suits, and all in matching black converse. The bride will ode to her party with matching raspberry chucks. The flower girls will be wearing gold sequin and gold tulle dresses handmade by Elyse. The night includes chalkboard elements, natural wood, gold, and kraft paper.

“We are beyond excited to begin this next chapter in our journey of life together and to celebrate with all of our loved ones with the help of Lilla's,” Elyse said.

We are so excited to see pictures from the big day. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness, Gingerich’s. 

10 Reasons Why Rain Won't Ruin Your Day

Rain, rain, go away... or, stay? Every bride dreams of sun shining on her big day, but let's talk rain, it's benefits, and options. Here 

10 Reasons Why Rain Won't Ruin Your Day

1. You will love your pictures. Think matching umbrellas, dancing in the rain, thunderstorm kisses, and puddle frolicking. 

2. Rain boots are comfier than heels.You don't need me to tell you how comfy and cute rain boots can be. 

3. Rain is supposed to be good luck. In some cultures, rain is actually considered good luck for a marriage, signifying fertility and a long lasting marriage.

4. You have a back up plan. If your outdoor venue doesn't work, you have a backup plan. At least, you should. Most venues offer indoor and outdoor reception space, with rehearsals accommodating for both. Keep this in mind when you are venue shopping and be sure to ask about rain plans.

5. Your flowers might last longer. Flowers are known to thrive in watery, windy conditions, causing them to be less likely to wilt. 

6. Your guest favors can be useful. How often to do you go to a wedding and get a cheesy, non-useful wedding favor? Here's an idea. In the rain, give them a colored poncho, a memorable umbrella, or an embroidered hand towel. Now we're talking!

7. Updos Won't Frizz. That's the beauty of an updo. Think braids, twists, and messy buns. Your glam squad won't let your hair fall or frizz, and updos are great at keeping your hair in control. 

8. You can collect the rain while you dance in it. I saw the cutest idea on Pinterest to stick out mason jars on the wedding day and collect the rain. Perhaps use it as a flower vase or a lifelong decoration piece. It's something you'll never forget. 

9. Rain just has a way of making things...romantic. On a rainy day, all you want to do is cozy up to your loved ones and just be "together". It's magical. It makes the atmosphere cozy, warm, and romantic.

and last but certainly not least...

10. At the end of every rain storm, there is a rainbow to be seen.


Comment below to tell us your rainy wedding stories and share your pictures, too!

Bridesmaid Combinations That Work

When shopping for bridesmaids dresses, it's easy for you to feel overwhelmed. You want to think about your color, which fabric, how to dress each body time and how to make every girl happy all while complimenting you. It's a lot to think about, so we wanted to ease your mind by showing you some great combinations that are eye-catching, complimenting, and matching.

At Lilla's we offer an array of designers, colors, and sizes to try on. For this post, we are going to feature one of our most popular brands, Bill Levkoff, to illustrate our ideas.


Same Dress, Different Colors of the Same Hue

Different Dress, Different Colors of the Same Hue


Same Dress, Same Color


Different Dress, Same Color/Material


Same Color, Same Material, Different Dress

Different Dress, Matching Element, Same Color

These are just a few combination ideas. Our consultants can help to choose the perfect combination. What are some of your favorite ideas?

June's Bride of the Month - Anna Myers

The Beautiful Marriage of

Anna Myers (Raptosh) and Shawn Myers

 The wedding was held at the West Shore Country Club on May 6th, 2017.  Rain couldn't ruin this couple's perfect day as friends and family celebrated their matrimony. 

Anna on finding THE dress: 

"The day was absolutely perfect. i wanted my appointment to be a special time between my mom and I, so we just kept it the two of us. When we arrived we were warmly welcomed by the staff at Lilla's. Madison, the consultant, was a dream to work with! I had a dress in mind that I wanted to try, which Madison pulled right away. After talking with her about my bridal vision, Madison pulled a few other dresses. Before trying on my first dress, Madison said "I know this wasn't the one you wanted to try on, but I think you might like this even better!" And she was right! The dress was absolutely perfect in every way! I fell in love with it! After trying on several gowns, my mom and I knew that first dress was the one. I put the dress on one last time (for the day) and didn't want to take it off! It was everything I had ever dreamed of and sharing that moment with my mom was something I'll never forget!" 

Credits: 

Hair: Salon Platinum - Deneen Guldner 

Make up: Nicole Corallo

Elaine Gates Photography

Trend Alert: Lace Finishes

Post Inspired/Written in Part by Stella York

Throughout the years, lace has continued to be a staple in wedding dresses. Some brides love it, some are over the trend, so how do you continue to sell lace to brides who might shy away from the fabric? Yes, lace can feel ultra traditional but the latest collection from Stella York has taken this classic fabric and made it modern through the use of soft finishes, botanical patterns and fresh silhouettes. By pairing layered skirts and subtle sparkle with unique lace patterns, this Stella York collection is ideal for any bride – not just the girl coming in asking for lace!

Botanical Lace

This season, botanical lace flows over tulle, satin and organza to create detailed, nature-inspired motifs. Not just for ultra-feminine brides, botanical lace is perfect for the boho bride who wants to incorporate florals into her wedding-day style. Try a strapless ballgown with horsehair hem for the bride who was a twist on the traditional princess dream dress, or a kissing scalloped back and cage train for the more boho bride!

Soft, Natural Lace Necklines & Straps

Found on plunging V-necklines, illusion-lined straps and collarbone-skimming boat necks, scalloped floral detail adds a delicate, natural finish that frames the face, décolletage and back. Adding just a hint of #SoStella sexy, this lace provides a much needed update to traditional lace and allows the bride who wants a sleeker silhouette to explore lace as an option.

Illusion Backs

Floral lace motifs carefully placed over sheer illusion tulle give your Stella brides the look they’ve been coveting on Pinterest and Instagram. Finished with fabric-covered or crystal buttons, this pretty feature will keep all eyes on the bride as she floats down the aisle. 

Check out Stella York styles Lilla's carries here, as well as our entire inventory on our Pinterest page. Join the trend, finish with lace.

Making the Most of Your Bridal Appointment

Here at Lilla’s Bridal Boutique we pride ourselves in making each bride feel comfortable, confident, and beautiful. Our bridal consultants are here to make your day extra special with the assurance of quality and commitment. Whenever we find a spare moment, you can usually find us researching the newest styles, educating ourselves on designers and gowns, or finding new designs to bring into the store for you to love.  We do our research, and we want to help you find your perfect dress,

Here are our top six tips to making the most of your bridal appointment:

1. Think about your venue

Your dress can easily compliment your venue to complete the overall feel of the event. Lace often compliments rustic, the beach calls for chiffon and organza, and a cathedral needs a, you guessed it, cathedral veil. While the rules are never set in stone, always consider how your dress can simultaneously compliment you and the venue.

2.  Search our Pinterest for current styles in store

We keep our Pinterest page up to date with our designers and continually pin the dresses that we carry. Consider your usual nightly Pinterest scroll a “pre-shopping trip” for “research.” This is a great place to educate yourself on designers, dress styles, and what you look for in a dress. Our Pinterest can be found here.

3. Consider your entourage

Here at Lilla’s, we are family. We have been a family business for over 30 years. However, we wouldn’t encourage bringing the entire family tree to the bridal appointment. If you’ve ever heard of expression, “too many cooks in the kitchen,” then you can image our kitchen is often filled with loud chefs. This is your day and your entourage should have your best interest in mind. We welcome all but would never want someone to try to steal your spotlight.

4. Remember this is about YOU

This goes hand in hand with considering your entourage. This is your special day and we want you to never forget that. Consider what values you have and what you look for in a gown before you hear the opinions of others.

5. Create a budget

We offer affordable, stunning gowns, but would never want to place you in the gown of your dreams at too high of a price tag. Never be ashamed of your limit; there is a beautiful dress at every price. Be sure to tell your consultant your budget for the gown for a successful appointment.

6. Complete your look

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, after all. Lilla’s offers bags, belts, earrings, necklaces, shoes, and more. Consider us your one stop shop to bedazzle your day. We’re not all blinged out. If simplicity is your style, consider a monochromatic shoe or a simple stud Swarovski earring to complete your look.