by Nydia Garcia, Two Stray Dogs
Julia Jones opened Encore Bridal in Manhattan Beach nine years ago. However, the dream started long before that.
“I was sketching bridal designs when I was seven,” she said. “I’ve always loved fashion and everything ‘wedding’, to the point of obsession.”
Yet, finding the couture dress of her dreams for her own wedding proved to be an ordeal. After scouring all of Los Angeles, she took her pursuits online.
“But I didn’t feel comfortable buying on EBay or Craigslist,” she said.
A friend suggested looking for a bridal consignment store, but there were none. After a year and a half developing a business plan, Julie opened her own bridal consignment store.
“I had a lot of support from my husband; I quit my job to start my own business. Friends helped out so much, spreading the word, even volunteering at my first bridal show.”
What started locally is now spreading, thanks to the internet, into a national resource for new brides. “Recently a woman came from Minnesota to look at a gown she had seen on Encore’s website.” Jones said.
Encore Bridal is now firmly entrenched in the community. Jones organizes numerous annual events, and frequently partners with other local businesses to provide quality services and affordable couture bridal gowns and accessories.
She is constantly looking to save people money and give back with her eco-friendly philosophy.
1601 Sepulveda Blvd., Manhattan Beach. (310) 545-1409. www.encorebridal.com. B
 Ulla Maija “Annette” casual dress
In light ivory duchess satin bias Cut gown with a beautifully draped bustled Skirt and pearl covered button over the zipper Covered buttons decorate the back of the gown extending the end of the sweep train. Diamond studded eye wear: designs by Dianna Kazandijan Bracelet: stylist own Ring: stylist own |
 Alvina Valenta 9566 dress
In rum pink with an ivory lace overlay and ivory satin ribbon Sweetheart neckline trimmed with feminine pleating, A ribbon and bow detail accents the empire waist. Covered buttons. Sash: by Vera Wang in charcoal Available at Encore Bridal Head piece: designs by Dianna Kazandijan Earrings: H&M Necklace: stylist own |
 Head piece: designs by Dianna Kazandijan
Ear rings: H&M Necklace: stylist own |
 Ulla Maija, “Emily” dress
In diamond white beautifully draped bodice With gorgeous crystal clasp at the top of the Rear zipper and a detachable train. Head piece: designs by Dianna Kazandijan Bouquet: designs by Dianna Kazandijan Shoes: stylist own |
 Lazaro, in oyster with intricate detailing.
The bodice is adorned with hand made floral appliqués enhanced by Beading and sequin. The skirt is made up of hand folded raw edge organza |
| Photographer: David D’Angelo | Two Stray Dogs Art Director: Marco Ciappelli | Two Stray Dogs Producer: Erica Preus |Two Stray Dogs Set Producer: Jay Hurd | Two Stray Dogs Wardrobe Stylist | Nydia Garcia | Two Stray Dogs Hair: Diana Kazandjian | Two Stray Dogs Model: Kensy Reissig | Brand Models www.twostraydogs.com 310.251.7967 |
