BHLDN or rather Beholden, is the still rather new bridal line of gowns, gifts and decor by none other than my favorite Anthropologie. There are a few select places I go to alone to peruse for visual inspiration. In a perfect world I would live across the street from the MET but we all can't have everything, so I sometimes head on to Anthro. Unfortunately, BHLDN is pretty much an ecommerce site, with a flagship store in Philly. It's worth the trip if you are interested in their attire!Many of our weddings are vintage inspired, so many of my Brides adore this new line. For those that are attracted, if not obsessed, with their Anthro-like aesthetic, I say try on couture as well. Designers have come a long way. Don't bypass your wedding salon because you have found this site. In addition, many of these gowns may cost less than the most economical couture gowns, but take the cost of alterations into consideration. Also, try couture gowns on and ask yourself if you notice the difference. Most importantly, purchasing a gown online is highly risky to say the least. BLHDN does allow you to return their gowns and other merchandise within thirty days. If your gown or merchandise was on sale, you will be issued a credit.

Even though you may receive your gown in the mail well before you would receive a gown having been ordered from the average salon, DO NOT take this as a call to stall. You will waste time purchasing a gown online only to return it and order another one. And alterations take TIME. If you go through a few gowns having been purchased online and only then begin shopping at a salon, you may be too late in the game. Furthermore, there are many gowns that they sell with details like embroidered patterns that cannot be moved, so be forewarned. Lastly, you cannot be confident with what kind of style gown you would prefer until you begin trying them on.

Safest bet with purchasing these gowns online is to purchase a few and be simultaneously searching for a gown at a salon. I always say make your life easier and stick with one salon that is convenient for your alterations, rather than tramping around town from designer to designer - you already have enough on your to-do list.

I do recommend their "reception dresses". For the most part, these are short cocktail dresses, perfect for an engagement party, rehearsal dinner or after party. Also, after seeing many Brides try on many of their gowns and dresses, their cocktail style selections more often pleased our expectations. A gown that is beautiful on a hanger is often times just that.

Now gifts, decor and accessories - oh my! This is entirely a different story!

GOWNS