Meet Shadia Velez of Ve’Lace Bridal in Bellingham

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shadia Velez.

Shadia, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I always knew I wanted to be my own boss and run my own business. Coming from a family of business owners, it most certainly runs in my blood. I had a job to do though – I needed to figure out exactly what type of business I wanted to run. The day I said yes to my bridal gown was the day it finally hit me. A bridal boutique. I remember the feeling I got when I walked into the bridal shop. I knew it was exactly where I wanted to be career wise. Everything about the store was magical. It left a lasting impression and I knew I had finally figured it out. Ironically, I remember how impressed and mesmerized I was by brides when I was just a little girl. Seeing brides in their wedding gowns brought me so much excitement and joy. Sure enough, I can say 5 years later that the bridal business was the absolute perfect choice for me.

Has it been a smooth road?
It truly has been a smooth road. I know that sounds cliche but it’s true. Everything that has happened thus far has happened at just the right time and in just the right way. When we completed our first expansion project last year the employees and I were trying to figure out how the heck we made it work with the original space. Although beautiful, it was quite small and the new space made the old space feel even smaller. With every new bride came more and more referrals. But it was interesting how it all worked out at the right time. It’s almost as if the business speaks to us. When a change is needed, the business tells us when it’s time without having to jump the gun.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Ve’Lace Bridal – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I am the owner of Ve’Lace Bridal and we specialize in bridal attire – specifically wedding gowns, bridesmaids, mother of the bride/groom, flower girl, accessories, gown preservation, and alterations. I am most proud of the experience we provide our customers. I understand that a wedding gown purchase is more than just the dress. It’s the experience you provide the bride and her guests. It’s about making memories and creating special moments. I’m also proud at the fact that I understand that it’s OK if a bride doesn’t purchase with us. What matters more to me is that she had a wonderful experience. I’m sure most wouldn’t think of this as a proud moment – when you’re unable to sell a dress to a customer. I’m very confident in our collection and most of the brides that walk through our doors do end up buying but what matters most to me is that she enjoyed herself. Besides the experience, we set ourselves apart from others when it comes to the ‘after you say yes’ experience. She is not just a number. We are detail oriented and stay very close to our bride and customers throughout the entire dress process. From gown purchase, to providing checklists and swatches, to fittings, and pressing, steaming and pick up. We care greatly about the entire process and not just the ‘I said yes’ part.

Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love Boston for the big city feel without it being too big. It’s a great combination of city yet cozy if that makes sense.

And of course, the people! The traffic bothers me a bit but it’s to be expected – if I had to pick something I least liked it would be that.

Pricing:

• Bridal gowns start at $999 and go up from there
• Bridesmaids start at $150 and go up from there
• Mother of the bride start at $300

Contact Info:

• Address: 11 Mechanic Street
• Website: www.velacebridal.com
• Phone: 508-966-0091
• Email: velacebridal@gmail.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/velacebridal
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/velacebridal
• Twitter: www.twitter.com/velacebridal
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/velace-bridal-bellingham

Image Credit:
Kim Lyn Photography

Getting in touch: BostonVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.