Unbelievable!
Strut created a core memory for everyone in my bridal group, and they STILL tear up talking about how special it was. I booked a private appointment to bring more loved ones and enjoy a little charcuterie! Omg, it was so much more than that. Nick and Tamiko went out of their way to make the entire experience unforgettable and to ensure I felt special. They coordinated with my loved ones, set up an amazing spread of snacks and displays, and implemented some personal touches that I am still so moved by.
They were so warm, affirming, and thoughtful. I have always been terrified of the dressing room, but Tamiko made me feel so comfortable. She and Nick are brilliant and honestly knew what would fit me better than I did. They brought in dresses that I would have never thought I'd look good in, and I quickly saw myself in a different light. This sounds so cheesy, but it was literally a healing experience for me and my body image. It allowed me to love my body and, quite possibly, see myself the way my fiancé sees me.
I knew I was going to find my dress because I had so much trust in Tamiko and Nick. Near the end, I tried on a dress and fell in love with it, but I decided to try on the last two just for fun. The moment I put on the next dress, I felt overwhelmed because I did not think I could EVER pull it off. I asked Tamiko what she thought because I just didn't trust what I was seeing, and she gave me her honest opinion that she liked this one more. When I stepped out, my family and friends loved it, but Nick's comment really stuck with me. He said, "Now, this is the dress that gives you that Jessica Rabbit shape!" The entire day I kept saying I wished I looked like Jessica Rabbit, so Nick's statement confirmed it was my dress because I actually agreed with him!
Also, can we just talk about how affordable the dresses are?? I could not believe the price tag. My dress cost less than half of what I was quoted at another store for a dress that didn't fit me and didn't even make me feel good! Absolute madness.
This is a long-winded way of saying that I cannot recommend Strut enough. I drove from San Diego to Long Beach because of the amazing reviews from my friends who also traveled to Strut for their wedding dresses, and it was absolutely worth the trip. I also highly recommend a private appointment if you'd like to bring more people or if you feel like you'd enjoy that type of experience! I loved being able to bring all those that I wanted there, and they even offered a tripod to Facetime those who couldn't be there. I wasn't planning on having a bridal shower, and now I definitely don't need it because the entire appointment felt like one. Thank you, Tamiko, Nick, and Strut! I can't wait to go there again for my Bridesmaids dresses!