Today we’d like to introduce you to Teresa Eklund.
Hi Teresa, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started making paper dolls and designing their dresses when I was about seven or eight years old, and that’s when I fell in love with fashion. When I was ten, my mom got a new sewing machine, and I taught myself how to sew. After spending two years studying fashion retailing at Miami University, I transferred to the University of Cincinnati to pursue a degree in fashion design.
While in school, several friends asked me to design and create their wedding gowns—and that’s when I discovered my passion for bridal fashion. After graduation, I continued creating custom bridal gowns for clients. Nearly 30 years later, in 2019, I launched my own line, Renee Grace Bridal, named after my daughters.
Today, my gowns are carried in 13 stores across the U.S., and I also own a boutique in Cincinnati, where I specialize in personalizing wedding gowns to bring each bride’s vision to life. Our boutique offers over 100 styles to choose from, and every gown can be customized to reflect a bride’s unique style. We also provide a couture experience, where each gown is crafted from the pattern up exclusively for one bride. Every Renee Grace Bridal gown is designed and made in our Cincinnati atelier.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Is any new business a smooth road? Most struggles have been finding my ideal client. But the greatest is probabky wearing the many hats of an entrepreneur- business, finance, marketing, employer, designer and manufacturer. As an older business woman its also been learning the current ways of business like social media and now AI.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in designing and creating wedding gowns, all made right here in Cincinnati. Every step—from design and pattern making to testing and the final fitting—is done in-house with care and attention to detail. Brides can choose from over 100 designs, either buying it as is or personalizing it.
I’m best known for giving brides the opportunity to truly personalize their gowns. When searching for the perfect dress, most brides have a vision of how they want to look, even if they’re not quite sure how to bring it to life. I work closely with each bride to help her choose the ideal silhouette, fabrics, and details that reflect her dream. Together, we uncover her unique style and turn that vision into a one-of-a-kind gown.
What makes you happy?
I love being able to help a bride get their dream dress. The joy on thier faces when they pick up their final gown is such a pleasure.
Pricing:
- gowns start at $2000
- The custom couture experience is an additional $2000
Contact Info:
- Website: https://direct.me/reneegrace
- Instagram: reneegrace_bridal
- Facebook: Renee grace Bridal
