With prom just around the corner and wedding season gearing up as well, many women might feel overwhelmed as to where to turn for assistance with the many small details facing them before their big day. Candlelight Bridals by Becky, located just off the downtown Covington square, is equipped to meet all of your bridal and formal ware needs. Candlelight Bridals opened in 2005 but its counterpart - Flowers and Catering by Becky - has been doing business in Covington since 1994. Store owner Becky Rutledge, who also owns Flowers and Catering, said her store has experienced a surge in business in January as a number of couples became engaged during the holiday season and again in February after Valentines's Day. "We have been very busy," Rutledge said, smiling happily. In addition to the recent wave brought on by those who are newly engaged, Rutledge said her store has been frequented by teenage girls preparing for their high school proms. Also, she is picking up business for eighth grade dances from not only Newton County, but also Jasper, Morgan and Rockdale counties. "We're just so proud," Rutledge said of her store's popularity. Brides-to-be can come to Candlelight Bridals for all of their wedding needs, Rutledge said. "If you are getting married, you can get every aspect of your wedding here at Candlelight Bridals," Rutledge said. In addition to bridal ware, catering and flower arrangements are also available through Flowers and Catering by Becky. "We offer full-service catering and special flower arrangements," Rutledge said. There is also a free wedding consultant available at Candlelight Bridals. Wedding invitations can be purchased from the store as well. Rutledge said the store can help couples with choosing their wedding photographer, DJ and venue. The store features gowns by Alfred Angelo, Casablanca and Emerald Bridals. Pageant gowns, wedding veils, bridesmaid dresses, flower girl dresses and dresses for the mother of the groom and the mother of the bride are also available at Candlelight Bridals. Rutledge said her store has received particular praise from the mothers of bridal couples who are pleased with the store's selection of dresses for mothers of the bride and mothers of the groom. The store also offers tuxedo rentals. Accessories to adorn your chosen dress are also plentiful at Candlelight Bridals including jewelry, shoes, bags and hats. The store has an in-house alterationist and also offers outside alterations. "We hand-select everything," Rutledge said of her store's merchandise. This year, Rutledge has been invited by Alfred Angelo to travel to their headquarters in Florida to help choose dresses for their 2008 prom dress collection. "I'm real proud of that," Rutledge said. "We do a big business with Alfred Angelo." Candlelight Bridals has recently added the Jovani line to their prom gown selection which Rutledge said has been very popular. The store is currently offering a 20 percent discount on all prom dresses and accessories.
Candlelight Bridals a busy place