Renowned bridal designer Anne Barge, recognized for her classic gowns inspired by historical trends, opened a new retail store, Anne Barge Atelier, in Atlanta’s Buckhead neighborhood on February 5th. The 5,000-square-foot space at 79 West Paces Ferry gives Anne Barge Bridal Collection a visual presence in the area’s renowned upscale shopping district.

“Establishing this store-front location in Atlanta’s premier shopping district will introduce the Anne Barge Collection to a broader clientele,” said Barge. “Every detail of Anne Barge Atelier was carefully considered during the conception and design and the result is a space that serves as an elegant backdrop and dramatic setting for brides making what is perhaps the most significant fashion decision of their lives.”

Located across the street from the new St. Regis Hotel opening in 2008, Anne Barge Atelier occupies the ground floor of a former bank building. Complete with a bank vault, the store’s spacious yet intimate setting features off-white Corinthian columns, warm, café au lait-colored walls accented by heavy crown molding and lush candlelight-colored carpeting. Accents, such as the Chinoiserie reception desk, the black, Chippendale sofa and the portrait of Barge’s mother on her wedding day, create an elegant yet personal setting.

Gowns are displayed on raised platforms throughout the store, and each of the five fitting rooms features halogen lamps that bounce light off the ceiling to provide brides with the important opportunity to see themselves in natural light. During fittings, brides can simulate walking down the aisle by gliding down a 40-foot walkway toward a full length mirror. While awaiting an appointment or taking a break between fittings, brides and their guests can enjoy a beverage from the wet bar located adjacent to jewelry and accessory displays.

Anne Barge Atelier will feature the complete collection of Barge’s signature gowns and Badgley Mischka Bride – a gown collection for which Anne Barge Bridal Collection is the licensee. In addition, the store will carry shoes by Badgley Mischka and Filipa Scott; tiaras, earrings and accessories by Debra Moreland for Paris; vintage and one-of-a-kind jewelry by Carole Tanenbaum; flower girl dresses by Joan Calabrese; as well as lace veils imported from Belgium and France and accessories like brassieres, slips and hosiery.

Anne Barge has been in the bridal business for more than 25 years and launched the Anne Barge Bridal Collection in 1999. With price points ranging from $1,800 to more than $10,000, Anne’s elegant style, attention to detail, and use of the most luxurious fabrics and embellishments is evident in her premier Black Label, signature Couture and moderately priced La Fleur lines that comprise her complete collection. With a presence in Neiman Marcus and the finest stores throughout the United States, UK, Spain and Japan, in addition to a flagship store in Atlanta, GA, the Anne Barge Bridal Collection sets a global standard for design and quality in the bridal industry.