New bridal boutique opens in Kailua-Kona

Many young girls dream of the perfect wedding, and most importantly, the perfect dress for that special day.

When Annie Sundseth got engaged, she didn’t know exactly where to begin her hunt locally. No stranger to weddings, Sundseth is the owner of Bliss In Bloom, a successful five-year-old company specializing in wedding and event design. Her search led her to several bridal boutiques on Oahu, some of which were warehouse-like places that she said didn’t quite have that bridal feel, and then finally to the mainland.

Sundseth instantly saw a need for a boutique in Kailua-Kona, one that would envelope a bride with a welcoming warmth and make her feel like a princess. She also wanted to offer fresh, youthful designs for brides who seek not only styles full of romance and femininity, but also finer details rather than tradition, breathable, eco-friendly fabrics and a modern vintage/European aesthetic.

Located at 75-5665 Kuakini Highway, Suite 4, the Bliss In Bloom bridal suite opened this month, with a trunk show featuring the fashion-forward gowns of Los Angeles-based designer Lindee Daniel. Trunk shows are special dates that give prospective costumers a sneak peek at an extended selection of a certain designer, and such events will be offered at various times throughout the year.

Bliss in Bloom is filled with little details, as well as well-loved and worn accents. Inside is a curated collection of bridal gowns, including unique consignment pieces, ranging from $1,200 to $4,000. Sundseth is still building her collection, but already offers gowns by Daniel and Sarah Seven of Etsy fame. Appointments must be made in advance to try the dresses on. At least three months are needed to order dresses, which are nonreturnable. The customer is also responsible for doing all alterations and Sundseth has references for local seamstresses.

Also available are distinctive accessories, such as fascinators, head pieces, veils, shoes, jewelry, belts and garters, as well as unique gifts and decorations. The latest inventory will be regularly posted on Bliss In Bloom’s Facebook page and on Instagram, Sundseth said.

The approximately one-hour bridal appointments are one-on-one, and Sundseth’s approach is casual, laid-back, friendly and supportive. Espresso or champagne will be offered. Inspiring creativity and providing guidance are also part of the focus. Sundseth said she will provide free consultation to those interested in getting additional information or recommendations for their big day, as well as learning about the other services her company offers.

Sundseth grew up around weddings. Her mother was an inspiring, creative and talented do-it-yourselfer who was always busy with her hobby — helping with special events. There was nothing her mother — who acted as a florist, baker, dress maker, coordinator and jack-of-all-trades — couldn’t do. Sundseth credits her mother for instilling and encouraging her ability to create.

Besides helping her mom, Sundseth also assisted her friends with their weddings, as well as learned floral design from her sister and sister-in-law. In early 2006, she began working as the full-time wedding coordinator for the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort and Spa. Two years later, she launched Bliss in Bloom. The chic bridal suite is Sundseth’s latest labor of love, and she admitted to having “excited jitters.”

“I just want to be a part of their bridal journey and help make things a little easier — whether it’s finding the perfect dress or those unique, personal details,” she said. “I love being able to help someone through one of the most important days of their life. It’s rewarding and really awesome.”

Sundseth, who is a mother of two children, is still trying to determine the best hours of operation. The Bliss In Bloom bridal suite is currently open from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, call 990-2899 or visit blissinbloom.com.