From a young age, Jamie Heiser dreamed about being in the bridal industry. During college, her sister, Kayla Heiser, developed a passion for marketing. Their mother, Jody Heiser, longed to get back to working within fashion. After much research, planning and prayer, the mother and two daughters combined their talents and dreams to take over Stillwater’s Raffiné Bridal in 2009.
This past November, the trio relocated their growing business to Woodbury. “Although we love Stillwater, we’re all Woodbury residents and have a close connection with the city,” Kayla says. “And our new location, directly off the interchange of I-494, I-94 and I-694, offers a much more convenient location, with more parking and in-store space.”
Raffiné Bridal and Formal Wear features three bridal suites and two designated bridesmaid fitting rooms. The shop provides brides with high quality designer gowns that are not saturated across the market; designers include Blush, Essense of Australia, Intuzuri, Jim Hjelm, Kelly Chase, Mikaella, Paloma Blanca, Stella York and Wtoo Brides. “What makes Raffine unique in our industry is what we offer, not only in product, but especially in customer service,” Jamie says. “Our number one goal is making sure every person that walks in the door is treated with kindness and respect. We work hard in making sure every bride and their guests feel special.”
In addition to bridal gowns, Raffiné also offers bridesmaid dresses, tuxedos and bridal accessories. After an overwhelming number of requests, the boutique decided to expand into social occasion dresses. Customers can shop for dresses to wear to weddings, galas, holiday events and other special occasions and purchase the same day without ordering. “The styles are of a wide variety and ever-changing to ensure uniqueness,” Kayla says. “The dresses are located in their own section of the boutique year-round, along with seasonal prom dresses which are offered January through May.”
And how is it for Jody, who does the bookkeeping, working alongside her two daughters at Raffiné? “It’s the biggest blessing because I get to see them in action with the passions they have, and see how they treat people,” Jody says.
Top Trends for Brides in 2014 from Raffiné Bridal
Wedding Gown Styles
Trumpet, A-line, Keyhole Back, Sweetheart Neckline
Wedding Gown Fabrics
All Lace, Tulle, Beaded Lace, Brocade
Wedding Gown Colors
Ivory, Blush, Champagne
Jewelry
Simple and Classic, Pearls
Flowers
Blush Pink and Ivory, Rustic Styling
Top Trends for Prom in 2014 from Raffiné Bridal
Styles
Strapless, Sweetheart Neckline, Sheer Bateau Necklines
Fabrics
Chiffon, Full Sparkle
Colors
Coral, Mint, Charcoal, Gold
Raffiné Bridal & Formal Wear
707 Bielenberg Drive
651.430.0990