page 89 X metropolitan weddings X WINTER / SPRING 2021
gracie ' s bridal
417.866.1808 2724 South Glenstone Avenue www . graciesbridalspringfield . com
From flower girl to bridal store owner and designer sales rep , Andrea Longwell always knew she wanted to be in the wedding business . As a little girl , “ Gracie ,” Andrea ’ s childhood nickname , begged her mother to put an ad in the newspaper offering up her services to potential brides and grooms as a flower girl . She loved the bridal industry and everything about it . Finally , her time to shine came when some family friends asked her to be the flower girl at their wedding and she relished the role ! She took her time walking down the aisle , soaking in the moment that she had dreamed of for so long . Fast forward a few decades and the dream came full circle . The married couple that asked Andrea to be their flower girl had a daughter who was engaged and Andrea was happy to help this special bride find the perfect dress at her own store , Gracie ’ s Bridal .
Gracie ’ s Bridal opened in downtown Springfield in 2006 , but moved to their current convenient location in the Brentwood Center in 2011 . This year they will be celebrating 14 years serving area brides . While Andrea loves all aspects of owning and operating a bridal store , her favorite part of her job is being a part of a special day that brides will always remember while getting to know the bride , her family and friends .
Andrea also is a sales rep for a bridal designer , so she has an in-depth knowledge of the industry and works with designers from dress concept and fabric selection , to sewing and manufacturing , to delivery to the store . Her unique working knowledge offers an insider ’ s perspective as she really understands , lives and breathes this industry . Andrea sees intricate lace patterns , beautiful backs and amazing trains as some of the latest trends among wedding gowns .
Gracie ' s Bridal offers two private bridal suites in an intimate setting for brides to choose their special dress with a great staff . They prefer appointments , but will try and accommodate all requests . Andrea has an experienced team that has helped brides for years and they are also excited to be a part of this special day . Known for having beautiful gowns at reasonable prices , Andrea likes to remind brides , “ You do not have to spend a ton of money to get exactly what you want at Gracie ’ s Bridal .”
favorite fashion accessory
Andrea loves Lilly Pulitzer and you will usually find her wearing something Lilly , but her favorite accessory for her brides is the veil . “ A veil just completes the look .”