Mother and Daughter Open Clayton's First Bridal Gown Boutique

Fleur De Lis Bridal Boutique is one of the newest bridal boutiques in the St. Louis area and the only such business in Clayton.

The boutique at 8109 Maryland Ave. offers gowns by high-end designers such as Rivini and Elizabeth Fillmore, and headpieces and jewelry by designers such as Erin Cole.

But what stands out most about the shop is its ownership: Fleur De Lis Bridal came about through a dream shared by a mother and her daughter.

Connie Lucks and her daughter, Kristin Lucks Shelton, have always been businesswomen. But they had so much fun planning Kristin's wedding that they began to consider making weddings a part of their living.

"We wanted to follow our dream," Connie Lucks said. "With my experience and background in purchasing, and Kristin's background in marketing and sales, we are confident we can pull this off."

Although the shop held its grand opening and a ribbon-cutting Thursday afternoon, it has been open since Jan. 21. Spring and summer wedding seasons are in full swing, and Fleur De Lis Bridal promises to keep things simple while ensuring brides-to-be that they will look elegant and stunning at the altar. (Mark Zimmerman of Richmond Heights-based has posted from the ribbon-cutting.)

While patrons are encouraged to visit the shop, Fleur De Lis Bridal has a website listing the designers whose products it carries, along with links to various catalogues.

"We wanted to keep things simple, so that with just a point and a click you can instantly browse everything we have to offer," Connie said.

Various members of the Clayton business community attended Thursday's grand opening, including Wellbridge Athletic Club and Spa general manager Andy Berman.

"They're definitely filling a need here in Clayton," Berman said. "(I) always have bridal parties coming and going, and with this boutique now across the street it should attract more business for the both of us."

Connie praised the Clayton business community as accommodating and welcoming.

"Clayton has been very welcoming," she said. "Everyone is excited when new retailers open their doors, and it's no different with us. We are the only shop of its kind here in the Clayton area."

Kristin Lucks Shelton couldn't be happier about working with her mother.

"It's just been great. It's been like any other business relationship I've had in the past, except it's my mom," Kristin said. "We don't feel like we're going to work because this is what we want to do."