Retailer Spotlight: Crystal Garnet Bridal Boutique

Established on October 21, 2010, Crystal Garnet Bridal Boutique is based in Fourways and Lakefield, Gauteng, South Africa, and primarily focuses on bridal services. It is 100% African and female owned, and derived its namefrom two precious stones: crystal and garnet. Crystal is associated to Candice's birthday month and garnet to the birthday month of her mother, Iris Slava. Just as each precious stone is unique and beautiful, at Crystal Garnet each bride is unique and beautiful--no two are ever the same.Director and Wedding Specialist Candice van Vooren, is incredibly passioante about what she does, she believes every woman deserves to have the wedding thast she has always dreamed of and it starts with her wedding gown. 

What was the motivation/inspiration to open a bridal store? How did it all start?

''Since I was a child, I had a desire to be an entrepreneur, and in March 2010, the dream to open my open bridal boutique was birthed. The business was officially registered in October 2010. I initially managed the business on a part-time basis, before an opportunity became available to move into beautiful premises in Fourways in 2014. A month later, a second boutique was opened on the Eastrand. Our vision is to be the leading bridal brand internationally.''

What are some of the things that have helped your store to become what it is?

''Firstly, I believe in the institution of marriage, i.e. Matthew 19:6: “So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, let no one separate”. A bride’s wedding day is one of the most important days of her life, and at Crystal Garnet, we aim to treat her like a queen from the moment she steps into our boutique and throughout her who experience with us. Great attention is given to enhance our elegant store layout. We are committed to providing quality products and services to our clients. We’re continuously innovating, planning towards, and preparing for growth. Pictured below: A bride-to-be selctects her Blue by Enzoani Fremont gown at Crystal Garnet.''

Who are the people/staff that make up your store?

''Currently we have two boutiques, situated in Fourways, Sandton and Lakefield, Benoni.
Fourways Showroom consists of one Store Assistant Manager/Sales Consultant, one Sales Consultant, three Seamstresses, and one Cleaning Assistant. Six staff in total at Fourways and one at Lakefield.''

What do you offer your customers that have helped you to stand above the competition?

''We are a one-stop bridal shop. We stock a variety of wedding gowns at competitive prices. Luxurious and elegant store layouts which are at easily accessible locations. Quality services and products. We listen to our customers and are always working towards improving our customer service and product delivery. Innovation is a core focus area.''

What are the things you enjoy about Enzoani?

''Enzoani's ordering process is fast, efficient and always on-time. Friendly staff. The staff isalways prepared to assist and support you where they can and when needed. Pictured below is a photoshoot Crystal Garnet had featuring BT14-13 from the Beautiful collection.''

Do you have a favourite gown or style? Collection? 

''I love all the Blue by Enzoani and Beautiful wedding gowns we have in our store, but my favourite styles at the moment are Greece and Guam (pictured below) from the Blue by Enzoani Collection and BT13-13 from the Beautiful Collection.''

Anything else of interest that you would like to add about your store, our relationship, in general?

At Crystal Garnet, each bride is unique and beautiful-- no two are ever the same, and so are our wedding gowns of choice. Our brides are special, and we are so honored to be part of such a joyous and special occasion for them. We want our brides and her retinue to feel at home when they visit us. We believe each bride sparkles- this means she glows with beauty and radiance, as she prepares for her big day! We invite all brides to come and experience their sparkle at Crystal Garnet Bridal Boutique! All our wedding gowns are carefully selected from local and international designer houses, and our relationship with Enzoani is key and supports us in meeting our business goals. Pictured below: Crystal Garnet attends the Eastrand Wedding Show.