Welcome to the West

I love the community focus the Chamber promotes.  It feels like I have a team behind me! As a new business owner, that continues to be a high priority.

We stock a wide variety (style and size range) of wedding gowns (size 4-28 in-store). I believe firmly in lifting up positive body image, so while many competitors carry limited (size 8,10, 12) sample sizes to try on, you will find a wedding gown that will fit EVERY body in my shop! Currently I have 50 dresses size 18-28 in store, ready to try!  I have also really enjoyed opening up the shop in the heart of homecoming season!  It’s been fun to serve young ladies seeking fashionable short dresses for the fall formal season.  In addition to bridal and homecoming, I also carry prom dresses. For the gentlemen, I have a range in styles of suits and tuxedos for rental or purchase… from fun and edgy patterned jackets to classic cuts, we’ve got the guys covered!

As a former educator, I naturally have a person-centered approach ingrained into my professional practice. I believe that serving customers is not about selling a product, but about crafting an unforgettable experience. This philosophy centers around personalized service, genuine care, and individualized attention to detail. My role is to listen deeply to each client’s vision and to offer tailored guidance that honors their individuality. I strive to create a welcoming environment where every client feels valued and understood. By combining empathy with expertise, I aim to be a trusted partner in making each client’s formal event dreams come true.

So far, I have enjoyed the regular communication received from the Chamber, as well its community-mindedness and focus on lifting business partners up. I have loved my location in Valley Junction because there is always something fun going on, there’s lots of amazing foot traffic, and I really enjoy the “mainstreet vibe.”

The book I most recently read was “All the Light We Cannot See”. I also really love anything by Brenee Brown and Jon Gordon (Energy Bus and Soup are favorites). In general, I love anything in the genres of historical fiction and fantasy.  When I have a few minutes to go on a walk with my dogs, I have been listening to a podcast called “Behind Bridal,” which provides helpful bridal industry related tips/tricks/strategies.

1) My business is family-owned! For about 25 years, Celebrations Couture has been synonymous with exceptional service and an unparalleled shopping experience. Originally called ‘A Heavenly Celebration,’ the Emmetsburg store served customers from a historical church reimagined as a stunning bridal boutique. The business has relocated to historic Valley Junction in West Des Moines, debuting its new location in Fall 2024.

2) I bring the heart of an educator to the formalwear business! After nearly 25 years in education, both as a teacher and school administrator, I find myself prepared to step away from the school environment, while still yearning to foster connections and provide support to others. My tenure in the field of education honed invaluable skills in customer service, meticulous attention to detail, innovative problem-solving, and, notably, the art of genuine listening to facilitate others in discovering their true potential. Now, embracing a new professional chapter in the fashion industry, I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to continue spreading joy and fulfillment to others in the form of Celebrations Couture’s meticulously curated selection of wedding gowns, prom dresses, homecoming attire, tuxedos, suits, and accessories catering to diverse tastes and preferences. The task is simple, spreading joy one dress (or tux) at a time!