David's Bridal Says 'I Do' to NYC With 'Unveiling' of First Manhattan Store

Nation's Most Trusted Bridal Retailer's New NYC Location Dons Gigantic Veil and Tiara to Announce Arrival in Fashion Capital of the World

CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa., March 5 /PRNewswire/ -- David's Bridal, the nation's foremost bridal authority, entrusted to outfit more than a third of the nation's brides, is proud to announce the opening of its first-ever Manhattan store. Located in the heart of New York City's Flatiron District at 751 Sixth Avenue (at 25th Street), this welcome addition to the neighborhood hosted its official "unveiling" this morning.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090305/NY79315 )

Just after 10 a.m., the unique grand opening ceremony commenced with the grandest "unveiling" New York City has ever seen featuring a gigantic bridal veil and tiara -- modeled after a popular David's style -- that adorned the facade of the building. New York City Commissioner of Small Business Services Robert Walsh, David's Bridal President and CEO, Robert Huth, and Cindy Payne, SVP of Stores for David's Bridal, took part in the ribbon cutting ceremony and assisted in the lifting of the veil, revealing the industry leader's new Manhattan digs. Several "brides" were also in attendance, modeling stylish David's Bridal gowns to honor the store's noteworthy arrival in Manhattan.

"Although many retail stores have been closing locations due to difficult economic times, David's Bridal is proud to open its heart and doors to the people of New York City," said Robert Huth, President and CEO of David's Bridal. "By employing more than 50 New Yorkers at the Manhattan location alone, we're doing our part to contribute to New York City's economy and are thrilled to bring our luxurious and affordable bridal and special occasion attire to women in the fashion capital of the world."

In New York City and across the country, the uncertain economy isn't stopping couples from tying the knot, but it is causing them to rethink their spending habits -- especially when it comes to wedding planning. According to the annual "What's on Brides' Minds" survey, conducted by Infosurv, Inc. for David's Bridal, three-quarters (75%) of brides-to-be admit that they will have to make adjustments to their wedding budget as a result of the economic climate. About one quarter plan to cut their budget in half and one in ten said their budget had dropped more than 75%. Amidst troubling economic times, a wedding is still the most important day in a couple's life. David's offers gorgeous bridal gowns at exceptional value, so that brides-to-be can stay within their budget, without compromising quality or style.

The new David's Bridal store offers New Yorkers an unparalleled selection of exquisitely crafted and fashionable bridal gowns, bridal party, special occasion and prom dresses and accessories. The extensive collection of elegant bridal wear ranges in price from $299 to $1,200 -including designer gowns from Oleg Cassini and Galina Signature- making luxury affordable, a welcome benefit in today's economy. While many salons carry only "samples" of wedding gowns, requiring a lengthy ordering process, David's carries a large assortment of gowns in every size -including petite and plus-sizes- that can be tried on and taken home that day, offering the ultimate in convenience. To coincide with the grand opening celebrations, an in-store raffle will also reward one customer with the dress of her dreams each week, through March 15th.

Renowned for providing fashionable designs, tremendous value and reliable service, David's Bridal has been fulfilling women's wishes for more than five decades and is excited to make its mark in the Big Apple. With its unique, classic and trend-driven dresses and accessories available in-store and at davidsbridal.com, David's Bridal is an essential shopping destination, no matter what the event or budget. For further information about the Manhattan's store hours and David's offerings, please visit www.davidsbridal.com.

About David's Bridal

With more than 50 years of bridal experience, David's Bridal understands the importance of providing brides-to-be with a vast selection of exquisitely crafted dresses, available at affordable prices. Today, with over 300 locations nationwide, David's Bridal continues to expand its retail store locations, while maintaining its philosophy of superior quality, value and service. To locate a store nearby, consumers can call 1-877-693-BRIDE or visit www.davidsbridal.com, the #1 ranked wedding website in the Lifestyle-Weddings category, according to Hitwise, the leading online competitive intelligence service.

Survey Methodology

The "What's on Brides' Minds" Internet survey was conducted by Infosurv, Inc. from December 4 - 10, 2008. A total of 513 surveys were completed among a national panel of women (age 18+) who were recently engaged or married. This study has a margin of error of plus or minus 4.27% at the 95% confidence level.

Copyright (C) 2009 David's Bridal, Inc. All rights reserved

SOURCE David's Bridal

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