Thank you all so much for the amazing customer service! You all made me feel so beautiful throughout the process and on my special day! read more

Bridal Elegance By Darlene - Wedding Dress & Veil - Bridal Near Me - Albuquerque, New Mexico

This review is so important to me because the experience I had will be with me forever. From the moment I walked into Bridal Elegance, meeting Darlene and Desiree, my dream dress being found, and down to the tailor.. it was the best part of all the wedding things I've done hands down. I have to tell it all! I didn't have an appointment, my stepmom and I were just dipping our feet into dress looking. I stopped there because my sister in law got her dress there 10 yrs ago and I remember how beautiful it all was. I didn't want to try on a dress, I wasn't feeling confident that day. But I was arriving closer to my wedding date. Desiree saw us looking through the window, opened the door. I let her know exactly what we were doing, she happened to have some time and took us in. Darlene was so kind and engaged from the moment we sat down. Desiree was so ready to help, and we were truly treated like we had an appointment for months. I believe the woman who helped me was Alyssa (I'm so sad I don't remember because she was beyond amazing, her and I cried and laughed together like old friends) She was given exactly what I was looking for... when I tell you she nailed it! I actually Picked the First dress she had out! I did try on around 8, eliminated down to 3, modeled those again.. and the whole time her and I knew I loved the first one from the the first minute! so they clearly were not rushing me. She also knew how uncomfortable I was and she was so sweet. I cannot describe how beautiful I felt from the first look and trying them all on was princess feeling. (If you don't want to try on dresses.. come here.. this is your sign!) I was cutting my dates close but Desiree assured me they could get it done. I had let her know my mother and I needed to come back immediately so she could see the sample and her and I could have the same moments. They let us come back, take their time again, try on the dress just to show, more pictures, and we got the same unbelievable love and experience. (Not to mention I took my son and they loved him, he felt very welcomed.) When my dress came in, both my mom and step mom got to be there we cried harder with the staff, more pictures. I got the same moment 3 times! They give you parting gifts, that made me cry in the car again, little final bride things, we forget! Darlene's hugs are to die for and her telling me how beautiful I was ugh, cried the whole time. Now. Alterations, "bridal places are suppose to have it" let me tell you why this isn't an issue.. at all. They have a list of people they trust, like I mentioned I was cutting it close, and Desiree referred me to Kim's alterations. Told me to call right then and she would take me right then.. that's exactly what happened. Drove a little bit, tried it on for her, took 5 minutes, she only needed 1 wk. (astonishing) and the prices! I was in Awh, beyond reasonable. So worth heading to Kim, off of Desiree's suggestion. Exactly what she said would happen, did. Real deal all the way around. I will also be going back there for pants and any tailor need! Now last piece, I did not go for my dress on time, Kim left out of town. I was freaking out, contacted Bridal Elegance again (they respond to DM's immediately it was also amazing) and even after it all, they offered me my sample dress if it didn't work out. I truly cannot believe them. Kim had a family member open the shop to give me my dress in time. I'm 3 days away from the big day, dress sitting infront of me. That was 10/10 and some of the most beautiful, professional, kind women I have ever met. I will be tagging them in all my wedding photos on IG as well. Thank you ladies I know you saw how full ya'll made my heart the whole time, my whole family will forever be coming back! read more

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I have been modeling dresses for Darlene for several years. The store was a little hard to find at first (for those of us directionally challenged), but nothing a little GPS could solve. I'm always amazed at her collection- the latest styles, colors, and even several from one of my favorite designers Maggie Sottero collections. To top it off, Darlene, her daughter, and Danielle greet you by name and always take the time to work with you. Fittings never feel rushed and it's fun to try everything on. Everything is always clean and well-organized. Walk-ins are welcome, but it is encouraged to call ahead- that way you'll be able to spend more time for the dress you're looking for, whether that be bridal, bridesmaid, flower girl, evening gown, special occasion, even prom dresses. (I always find at least one gown or two that I'm tempted to take home). Darlene has it all! read more

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We had a fantastic experience at Bridal Elegance. I decided to take my fiancé, Mom and future Mother In Law with me, I adore them all and value their opinions. I know this is not the most traditional but we were so welcomed and treated with kindness, patience and very sound professional help. We were given enough space navigate though amazing choices but really valued the expert help, not to mention all of the beautiful dress options!!! The experience is already a happy part of our wedding planning, so excited about my dress! Would highly recommend! read more

I had a horrible and overall disappointing experience with Darlene's. I was told I needed an appointment to try veils on so one was made and attended. At that time two staff member's including Darlene repeatedly told me I COULD and SHOULD bring my gown (which was purchased elsewhere) to better match veils. They all okayed this and asked me to rebook another appointment. This was appointment nearly a month later as they ALSO requested that it had to be on a week day no exceptions. The week of my appointment they call me to rescind the invitation to bring my dress in. I was shocked as it cost me a lot of time waiting for this single appointment and they had okayed it several times. I still held out hope and attended without my gown and then inquired about the ability to return the veil if it didn't match my gown; To which the women replied "oh it's final sale." I was so taken aback by this as they were the ones who asked me to bring my gown, then denied that, then told me if I buy the veil no exchanges or returns. read more

A hidden gem!! I am so grateful to Darlene and Desiree! First, when you go into the shop, you're treated like family. Darlene listened to everything I wanted and helped me find the dress of my dreams in my budget. I tried on tons of dresses and she suggested silhouettes that I never thought of. Unlike other shops, she would pin everything so I got a great idea of the end result. Darlene has designers that you won't find anywhere else - trust me, I looked. Also, the atmosphere is calm and there's no pushy car salesman tactics. I came into the shop with a lot of anxiety and insecurity about dress shopping. With Darlene and Desiree, all those nerves and jitters melted away. They are the sweetest. Another bonus is that by purchasing my dress here, I'm supporting small business and a wonderful family. Don't hesitate, make an appointment and bring the tissues because you're going to "say yes to the dress"! read more

I was worried that I would have to leave Albuquerque and go to Scottsdale or Vegas to find the type of dress I was looking for. My coworker suggested I stop by this boutique before I went out of state. I easily made an appointment and took my mom. This is definitely a local mom and pop store but I don't judge a book by it's cover and I'm so glad I didn't. I showed them inspiration pictures and within the first two dresses they pulled for me I knew I was at the right place. In fact the second dress I tried on is the one I was going for. It was simple and classy but with some flare. Darlene and her daughter were so kind and helpful. Thank you for making this an amazing experience! read more

Their employee Ari is nothing but condescending and rude. When I was trying on dresses she kept giving me ones so much larger than my actual size. When I kept pointing out my size and how this was not it. This rude employee told me I was going to gain weight anyways before my wedding so to "save me money" she's going to grab 2-3 sizes larger than my actual size. That felt like a giant bag on me. Absolutely atrocious. I've never felt less like a human before. read more

I'm an older bride who was looking for a simple gown and Darlene was so wonderful helping me find the perfect thing, without any of the usual hard-sell tactics other bridal salons use. I would highly recommend this shop; not only are they really nice people, they have a great selection for all figure types and budgets. Very excited to wear my dress on my special day! read more

Absolute worst wedding dress shopping experience. The customer service was terrible. I went with a $1400 budget and they put in a dress over $800 more with no warning. They then gave me condescending financial remarks on how to afford the dress as if my budget was a joke. Every time I made comments about a dress, the staff was dismissive and pushy about why I should like it. Wedding dress shopping should be a special occasion but I left the store in tears. While I loved many of the dresses, I will never give them my business and I will find a dress elsewhere. read more

Highly recommend! During both my bridal and veil appointments, multiple employees were working to pull items that suited and fit my vision. I ended up with the perfect dress- that came in a month ahead of schedule and fit perfectly! I would definitely recommend this shop to friends and family! read more

Store needs to be updated...... Bad. They do have some good dresses but they make promises they can't keep. They charged me for things I didn't want and forced me to pay for them. They are in it for the money not for you or your experience. read more

The absolute best place to get a dress for any occasion is Bridal Elegance by Darlene! I have known Darlene for many years and my son got getting married this passed August, so I finally had an occasion to wear one of her beautiful dresses. I haven't worn a dress in decades and Darlene helped me pick out multiple dresses in different styles to try on. She actually picked the two I fell in love with! They were dresses that I personally wouldn't have never even chosen to tried on. She knew what style would look best on me much more than I did. She did a perfect job on my alterations and bent over backwards to get to fit just right! They have a great selection in the shop in all price range and if they don't have it they can definitely get it for you. It was a great experience and so fun. Thank you Darlene so much for making this special occasion perfect for me! read more

Bridal Elegance By Darlene - A mother's love for her son is endless - Bridal Near Me - Albuquerque, New Mexico

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I went to David's, I went to Alfred Angelo, I went to Ann Matthews, I wasted SO MUCH time at those places. I wish I went here to begin with. This place deserves SO MANY STARS!!! I really should have left a review MUCH earlier but better late than never! Darlene and her staff are the best! They all eventually knew me and my mother by name ( and sisters by face which was incredibly useful because they picked up the dress whedn I didn't have time to!) and they had no problem making last minute alterations so long as I was as happy as can be(which I was!). Darlene and her staff are fabulous at reading people, knowing what they want and getting EXACTLY that plus what looks best. I got started dress shopping late and they worked with me even though I was essentially last minute shopping. They were the best friendliest shop I could have hoped for. Thanks Darlene's!!! read more

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This was the best experience EVER ! Customer service was amazing. They knew my body type and knew exactly what would look good on me! Within 10 minutes they had me in the perfect dress that made me feel very comfortable in my skin. The amazing customer service made this day feel not stressful but fun! They were very honest and straightforward and knew their designers !! I highly recommend this place for any bride! read more

Bridal Elegance By Darlene - Yes! To the amazing dress! - Bridal Near Me - Albuquerque, New Mexico

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I can't even give it 1 star but to put a review you have to mark the star. Me and my daughter were there on Saturday June 13, we were actually going to mvd next door to Darlene bridal store we were in front of the store in line,a older lady came out from the store ask if we were her appt. We said no but the people with the appt.came up as she was asking us then she said to us maybe I will be selling you a dress next time she was nice.I said maybe, we were admiring the dresses from the window. When a younger lady with light brown hair yelled at the girl from the mvd telling her we need to move we were blocking her store and she was so rude about it, the mvd employee asked the people to move up. Then a few more people showed up and she came out of the bridal store went into MVD office and yelled all loud at the employees there that their cutomers were blocking her window she was so upset and rude and giving us all dirty looks. Mind you her business was by appointment only. So what would it matter if people were in front of her window.I guess what I am saying that she lost a potential customer because of her attitude my daughter is getting married in the next year and I would not even consider her shop because of her rudeness and the dirty looks she was given us.Maybe she can talk to the mvd employees nicely and work something out with them about their customers she really was way out of line the way she act. no need to make such a scene.I am sure there were potential customers in the future but if they feel like I do she will not get their business.Big Mistake for Darlene Bridal store !! read more

I was given the name of this place by a friend who showed me a picture of a dress that I loved because they had it in stock. Day of, I was about 30 minutes early to my appointment but they took me anyway! Turns out they didn't have the one my friend sent me a picture of- which was completely fine because I found my dream dress instead! I wanted something unique and this is it. I've never seen any other bride in a dress similar to what I bought. Great customer service, too; turns out the dress I chose had been discontinued so they didn't have the size I wanted anymore. They ordered one that fit my measurements, but also put away the original I tried on in case I wanted to take that one instead due to the size difference. Seriously, if you're looking for something out of the box but still in your price range (I stayed under my maximum!!), definitely make an appointment here! read more

Horrible experience - My daughter found a dress out of state she loved, but it was too far to travel for dress fittings etc. She called around and found out Bridal elegance by Darlene had the dress. She called and made an appointment so her bridesmaids could see the dress. Desire made the whole experience horrible for my daughter and her bridesmaids. Accused my daughter of already having her dress and told her to hurry and get out of the dress someone else wanted to try it on. She and her party were in and out in 7 minutes. Needless to say she will not be buying the dress from this shop! read more

We had a fantastic experience trying on and purchasing my sisters wedding dress but after going in for the fitting learned we were just a sale to these people. The dress we received did not fit at all how the one my sister tried on fit, and the staff did not care. Instead they brought out a clipboard and threw measurements in our face. We also brought in bridesmaid dresses to try on with the bridal dress and received nothing but rude comments about it. It's called seeing a sale through that results in happy customers and unfortunately this establishment no longer cares about you after they've taken thousands of dollars. read more

Darlene has the designer gowns that you'd see at Kleinfeld's or on "Say Yes to the Dress." They've got tons of beautiful gowns and amazing customer service. When I first found out that I was getting married, I was in there almost every other day. They never seemed like they were sick of me trying on bazillions of dresses and were always happy to help me find exactly what I was looking for. I ordered a Maggie Sottero gown (the style is called Bernadette). I should've gone with my gut instinct and ordered it a size smaller than their measurements indicated, but c'est la vie. The only bad thing to say is that I ordered a gown that they have never altered before and so they weren't able to make it look exactly how I wanted because it would cinch or bunch in awkward places. I had to go into the shop multiple times for many fittings before it looked right. Since it's backless, there was only so much they could do. On the one hand, Darlene did give me the alterations (a $350 value) for free. I wasn't 100% satisfied with the way it looked. I couldn't give Darlene's bad marks because other girls I know that have gotten bridesmaids dresses, special occasion gowns, wedding dresses, or alterations have had amazing experiences here. The experience of finding a gown was wonderful, but not feeling 100% confident in my wedding dress made me take a star away. For wonderful customer service and high-end designer gowns, go to Bridal Elegance by Darlene. read more

We had an appointment to look at wedding dresses. The staff was helpful and courteous, right up to the moment when they heard our budget ($2-3 hundred). After that they became brusque and stopped listening to our wishes on style choices. Honestly it felt like we were getting the bum's rush. If you are not willing to pay thousands for a dress, don't expect helpful service in this store. read more

From the second we walked in, we did not feel welcome. We practically got yelled at for putting a couple of drinks on a table that was nowhere near any dresses. It felt like a library where we were not allowed to talk or make any noise. It ruined what should have been such an amazing experience, helping a good friend look for a wedding dress. Danielle should not be in the business of helping brides to be. She had a negative demeanor and lacked the enthusiasm and helpful attitude that someone in this profession should possess (at a minimum). read more

Bridal Elegance is more than just a dress shop, they really try to make your dresses perfect. I went there with my bridesmaids after being completely disappointed with David's Bridal. We didn't have an appointment and when we came in they allowed us to browse without breathing down our necks. One of my favorite things about them is that they can dye any dress to a variety of colors. The color I wanted for my bridesmaids was a specific fuchsia color and to my surprise many bridal shops do not have that color. When the girls found their dresses I left back to California and allowed them to finish off any communication needed for the dresses. I only called a couple of times to make sure everything was on schedule and it was. The second favorite thing about this place is that after my Maid of Honor sent in her measurements, she found out that she was pregnant and would be around 4 months by my wedding. Immediately she called them to find out what she needed to do. They were very helpful and calm and said that they would be able to make any alterations she might need up to the day she flew out to California for the wedding, free of charge! You can't even pay for this kind of customer service in other places! I would recommend Bridal Elegance for anyone who is in need of that perfect dress. read more

I first met Darlene at her store, Bridal Elegance, in 2009 when my cousin was searching for her wedding dress. Darlene and her staff were welcoming, friendly, helpful, and caring. My cousin ended up purchasing her wedding gown, which was customized, and 6 bridesmaid dresses. I was then asked to model for her fashion shows and have been ever since. She has a great selection when it comes to wedding, bridesmaid, prom, and special occasion dresses. Several friends have purchased their dress from Bridal Elegance. You can trust Darlene to make you feel beautiful and confident on your special day! read more

My experience with Bridal Elegance By Darlene involved shopping for a wedding dress with my fiancé and ultimately purchasing one from their selection. It became evident that Bridal Elegance sets itself apart from the others by carrying a unique, exquisite, and extensive collection. Moreover, the employees have an innate ability to immediately recognize a customer's taste and stylistic preference. This is based on my experience from tirelessly shopping at other corporate and local establishments and attending a wedding expo. The combination of staff expertise and genuine interest in customer satisfaction made for an efficient and productive viewing of one spectacular dress after another, which resulted in a dress that absolutely stunned our attendees on our big day. Notably, we were presented with a major issue with the dress that resulted from a manufacturer error, but the owner went above and beyond to make things right with our purchase. I would seriously consider taking advantage of the time, effort, and money you will save by going to Darlene's. Support local, family-owned businesses! read more

This a small dress store. There's a only a few selection in the front but it looked like they have more in the back. My mother in law was looking for a wedding dress and found this location herself. I'm not sure how her first interaction went but I came back with her to see all the dresses she picked out on her. The workers were nice. They sort of seemed irritated though. There was only one dress that looked perfect on her. But it would have been nice to take some time to think about the dresses. We felt pressured because she said she'd would discount the dress, throw in the jacket for free, and half price the veil if we purchased the dress that day. Sounds too good to pass up, right? We put about half down in the dress. We went back a couple weeks later for a fitting, which is where they charged us for another $215 without telling us beforehand. I understand it's the labor but it would have been nice to know before we went to the fitting. We could have found somewhere cheaper because $200 is a lot for a trimming. I just hope her dress will be perfect after the trimming. read more

Horrible experience and service!! They didnt seem to care, help, etc. All they cared about was selling their dresses. I made an appointment and they didnt even ask my name until I tried on my first dress. Do not recommend! read more

I have never felt compelled to write a review about a business before, but I have never been to an establishment where I have been treated in such a low class, disrespectful manner in my entire life. When I waked in the door, I was handed a book and told to put a paper clip on pictures of gowns that I liked (I was not told sizes available at that time). When I entered the dressing room the owner of the store told me multiple times that none of the gowns I liked would fit me and began to bring me other gowns without asking if I liked them first. When I asked if she had different styles in similar sizes, she simply ignored me. After trying on two dresses, I was miserable and in tears because of the way I was treated by the sales woman and the owner. While I understand that not all dresses come in plus sizes, there is a right way and a wrong way to speak to customers, and this was the wrong way. The sales woman saw me crying, and when she saw me leaving with my mother she continued to try to sell me merchandise. I am a person, a bride, and a customer not a dollar sign, and when I go to an establishment I would appreciate being treated as such. Bridal Elegance by Darlene ruined a perfectly happy day with their poor manners. Afterward, I called the store to inform the owner why we left so hastily. She did not believe that she was rude, and I interrupted me to the point that I had to ask to speak. I let her know that I will be leaving a review, and she made sure to inform me that she will be leaving a response. I encourage other brides to look elsewhere. read more

I LOVE Darlene and her staff. They are very knowledgeable, polite, helpful and have a great selection. I bought my prom dress here many years ago and my wedding dress more recently. They were so helpful in finding what style looked best on me. I also bought my headdress here, which I absolutely loved!! Even after moving to Denver I still came back to Albuquerque to buy my dress from Darlene. It was a great experience and I will always recommend Darlene's to anyone looking for special occasion dress. read more

Darlene really takes her business seriously and cares about every bride and their big day. I was so thankful for her help for my first time wedding dress shopping. She had great dress suggestions and was very patient with my family and I. I would recommend wedding dress shopping here for any bride. read more

Excellent selection of wedding dresses. I used them when I got married and they had a reasonable price for the dress I wanted. The ladies that work there are always super helpful and nice. You definitely won't feel like a burden. They let you go in and try on your dress/veil as many times as you want and they will alter it if needed. I would recommend them to anyone! read more

Darlene's is THE places to go! She is amazing, patient & kind. She knows her biz and it shows... She'll save you time, anxiety, tears and money!! read more

Had a great experience at Darlene's. They are helpful but definitely not pushy. I can see where some high maintenance customers might be put off by not being more doted on. But we appreciated that we could look and try on a wide selection of dresses and not feel guilty about not buying. We then looked at every other formal dress shop in ABQ and ended up back at Darlene's for the final purchase. Their selection was the best hands down and prices competitive. Will definitely go back when in he market for a formal gown. read more

I was referred by a few friends and colleagues to go to Darlene when I finally was ready to buy my dress. The whole experience was wonderful from the moment I walked in to try on dresses and when I went for my finally fitting. Darlene and her staff are so patient and not trying to rush you or pressure you. They are all such lovely people to work with! Darlene helped me with my first appointment and was so lovely made sure I stayed within my price rang and genuine complimented me when a dress looked nice. I have been to other dress shops that are the retail shops that rush you and was not looking forward to being treated like cattle. Darlene takes the time to make you feel at home in her shop. She wants you to feel like you are the most important client she has. I am so glad I was able to support a local business that really cares about its clients. read more

I'd highly recommend visiting this shop if you're looking for an affordable dress and nice experience. My mother, bridesmaids, and I visited this shop as part of the beginnings of my hunt for a wedding dress. After a disappointing visit to another shop, Darlene and her team were a breath of fresh air. She treated us like family, gave us lots of individual attention, let us take pictures for future reference as we decide what we like, and was all around a delight to work with. Her prom dresses are a lot of fun too. read more

Darlene, you are the best ever. you never let me down when I needed a dress for any occasion ever, thank you for all you have done for me through my good, bad and ugly times. I remember when you opened your store I think I was one of your first customers. Now I live in California but I will travel anytime to get a dress from her. Love you Darlene. Patricia. read more

We found the perfect dress. It was a nice place. A little disappointed in the lack of energy. I guess we watched too many TLC shows. We had fun though because we made it fun. Over all a good experience. read more

I loved the gowns they had. So many beautiful things to look at. Not such nice things to say about the service. I had heard Darlene was very nice and it was a great place to go. However, when I got there, the lady that helped me just didn't really care at all. I know it's a business and they get dozens of brides in there a week, but for all of these brides this is a once in a lifetime experience. My lady kept walking away, didn't smile, didn't care, didn't even ask me most of the time what I liked about each gown so she could help me narrow it down. I just felt like I was interrupting her day. I was very disappointed and left feeling let down and upset. I never thought I'd have better service at a chain store than a local boutique. So I went with someone else. I'll never go back again. read more

Terrible experience. I was left alone even when I had an appointment. The place was highly recommended, but I was quite disappointed by the experience. Even my guests felt the bad vibes... that was the most embarrassing. read more

I am very pleased with the service, professionalism and care this shop provided to me while I was choosing my wedding gown. Thank you so much, I cannot wait to return. read more