Bridal Suite of Bay Shore

In 1964, Bridal Suite was incorporated by Gina's mom and dad, Peter and Doris, as a concept to provide all things for all weddings, Bridal Suite of Bay Shore has evolved through the times bringing experience and authenticity arriving at its present state of providing an exceptional gown buying experience to Brides, their Moms and their Attendants. Many who purchased their gowns at bridal suite then are now bringing their daughters and granddaughters. 

We are a tight knit team led by 2nd generation Owner Gina DiGuardia along with new co-owner Andrea House (former manager for 17 years). Our team is is compassionately driven and all share the mission of keeping it fresh, individualistic, fun, exciting and welcoming.  

Gina: I often say "I was born in this place". Literally, that is not far from the truth. My mom and dad started the business 6 mos before I was even conceived 🤓. I remember doing child appropriate jobs (and then some) at the early age of 4 and 5 like filing, gathering beads from the floor, modeling flower girl dresses at the corporate fashion shows. Eventually I grew up and worked at 4 of the 10 stores (we had a franchise of 10 and kept the Bay Shore location in the immediate family). I've experienced nearly every situation the bridal world. (Bookworthy stuff 😁). The joy for me is having the innate knowledge to handle any situation. It has been my greatest pleasure finding the best ways to listen and support and welcome each guest and each employee and find the gifts in all the lives I intertwine with during one of the most emotional and meaningful times in one's life.

Andrea: My Bridal Suite journey started in 2002 when a family friend who worked here helped me find my prom gown and in 2004 when they were hiring a stylist assistant/stock I jumped at the chance. Over the years I have worked in literally every corner of the salon. Stock then on to reception, I was trained as a stylist and then eventually into management until Gina proposed a partnership in the business and I was honored to say yes. I love this industry so much. It's ever changing, and always exciting. Seeing the fashion trends always changing, evolving and even the ones come back is amazing  

Gina: I always go back to the fire that destroyed the entire store in 2002. I remember looking at the burning building at 8:30 on a Thursday morning while holding onto my mom as we helped to wipe each others tears and assure one another that everything was going to be okay. Then it was time to get to work. We established a new work space just 7 doors west and phone lines by 11:30am (no cell phones then) and began the task of replacing the gowns that we lost in the fire for weddings that weekend. Humanity was glorified in so many ways and our support system showed us their kindest and most thoughtful selves. We were able to replace all 11 gowns withing 24 hours (a true miracle when it normally takes 4-8 months); our seamstresses sewed all night; and our staff delivered pressed and ready to wear dresses for the Saturday and Sunday weddings. Telling this story, more than 2 decades later still fills me with overwhelming grace. 

Andrea: There are so many memories, life long friendships, special moments to choose from. I love the excitement in the showroom, the moment a bride truly feels like a bride. That look and feeling is amazing not only for her but for us as well. We all truly love this business and love nothing more when we can give our clients the experience they deserve. This is not just a "job" this is a passion. 

We specialize in Bridal Gowns, Mothers gowns and Attendants gowns.

Mostly, we specialize in providing a safe and welcoming environment so that our clients feel supported and authentic when choosing the garment they will be wearing on what will be one of the most meaningful days of their life. 

1963: Gina's dad, Peter, a top Cutco salesman, kept hearing young couples tell him they were saving for their wedding.

1964: Bridal Suite opens its 1st store in Patchogue providing everything for weddings including bands, invitations, limos, tuxedos, gowns - you name it.

1970: Bridal Suite becomes a franchise acquiring 10 locations across Long Island and New Jersey. Bridal Suite of Bay Shore is the 2nd store. 

1970-1975: All stores become independently owned. 

1970-1995: Bridal Suite of Bay Shore, is owned by Doris DiGuardia; founder

1995: Doris' daughter, Gina DiGuardia,  becomes Doris' partner until her passing in 2015. 

2015-Present: Gina DiGuardia retains sole ownership until 2022 when Andrea House (employee then manager for 17 years) becomes partner. Bridal Suite evolves and continues to build up the bridal gown and mother of the bride division of the business creating an unmatched bridal gown buying experience. 

Gina: Finding the best in people and cheering them on is the thing that fills my heart. I love all things outdoors; and yoga, skiing, pickleball, biking, writing, hiking and FAMILY are all a big part of what I enjoy. 

Andrea: The bridal industry is not a 9-5 job. It's a 24/7 life! When I am able to I love to travel. Traveling, seeing new places and experiencing different cultures is amazing to me. I also enjoy a peaceful quiet moment with a good book, a big ol cup of coffee and a purring cat on my lap.