I actually started my wedding industry journey in the kitchen! Fresh out of high school, I became a pastry chef, and from there I’ve worn just about every wedding hat. Venue Coordinator, Food & Beverage Director, Wedding Planner and Bridal Stylist.

By 2018, I was planning weddings with The Hive Wedding Collective and helping brides find their gowns at Urban Set Bride. That’s when I discovered the need for a sample and consignment bridal shop in central Virginia! The only one in the area had closed, and there wasn’t another within two hours. So… we opened Blue Sage Bridal!

We are truly a family owned and operated business. My husband, Ken, is our Operations Manager, and my oldest daughter, Alex, is one of our stylists. My Mom, Hobby, helps out with some seamstress work as well. Our two little boys, Hank and Leo, are still too young to work in the shop… but give them a few years!

After more than two decades in weddings, my favorite part is still the connections we make with our clients and helping them discover “who they are” in dress form.

Noelle’s Coffee Order: I NEVER drink coffee, but I drink black tea with Stevia every morning and usually Iced Green tea in the afternoon

I myself purchased my wedding dress from a bridal consignment shop years ago because I loved the idea of giving a dress a second chance! Now having worked in bridal for almost 5 years, my favorite part of the job is seeing how happy, confident and excited our brides walk away from their appointment. Whether they purchase a dress or not, it's so special being able to share in their joy for a few hours. I get to share my beautiful life with my husband Chris, our daughter Finley, our son Owen, and two dogs Mowgli & Bear - being around them is my absolute favorite thing! We love being outside as much as possible, cooking (and eating!) and spending Sunday’s snuggled on the couch.

Hannah’s Coffee Order: Caramel Macchiato (hot or iced) with Oat Milk

Having the opportunity to work with people who are getting married is so special because I catch a glimpse into their happiness and it’s contagious. My special interest in costume design mixed with the goal of body positivity and love for making people smile makes this job perfect for me. I am the creative lead here at Blue Sage which allows me to dive into the design and aesthetic of the store! Studying art in college definitely lead me to a more creative space! When I 'm not at work you can find me spending time with my husband, two dogs, and our new baby, Winifred! I love film, fashion, and nature walks in the cold weather!

Quincy’s Coffee Order : Iced vanilla cream cold brew

I have had many kinds of jobs in my life meeting all kinds of people! And while I never expected to work in a bridal shop, I’m finding it all kinds of fun! I have found myself tearing up as a girl sees herself in her “perfect” dress and it makes it not feel like work but rather a day of shopping! What could be better? When I’m not spending my day saying “oh my god that looks GORGEOUS on you”, you can find me snuggling with my 4….yes 4….kitties, binging Gilmore Girls for the 5,000th+ time on Netflix or doing my one true passion in life….acting onstage!

Leanna’s Coffee Order : My coffee order doesn’t exist as I am not a coffee drinker….but I love a tall glass of Dr. Pepper!

I was initially drawn to Blue Sage Bridal and bridal in general because of my interest in fashion! I graduated from Virginia Tech with a degree in Fashion Merchandising & Design and Visual Arts, so I knew I wanted to be in a creative space post-graduation. I modeled wedding dresses in Blue Sage's summer photoshoot last year, and from the moment I entered the inclusive environment with such empowering and kind women, I knew I wanted to be a part of it! I find so much joy in helping brides find their dream dress, and being able to do something different every day is wonderful. Lately, I've been loving sitting on the VMFA lawn with my friends, reading Emily Henry books, and eating sushi!

Kate's Coffee Order: Non-dairy Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew

I studied Costume Design and Technology and Political Science Legal Studies at Virginia Tech, Go Hokies! Blue Sage Bridal is my first job post-grad and I am so lucky to have found a job I love so much so quickly! One of my favorite parts of my job here at Blue Sage is working on maintaining our beautiful collection of dresses! I live in Richmond with my amazing boyfriend. While we don’t have any pets yet (500 square feet is too small even for just us!) my dream is to live in the mountains and run a dog rescue! I love kayaking, watching thunderstorms, discovering new foods, and relaxing by the pool.

Ellie’s Coffee Order : Caramel Macchiato

I'm Alex Noelle's daughter! I grew up in bridal and love helping people find their perfect dress. I especially love any bride looking for something funky and different, so bring me a challenge! Outside of work, I crochet and teach crochet classes! I'm a Richmond local and love hanging out down by the river. I also love seeing live music, so definitely talk to me about your favorite bands:)

 Alex's Coffee Order: No coffee, either a hot chai or an iced green tea <3