Meet Lilly Garcia of Merlili Bridal Boutique in Coral Gables

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lilly Garcia.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Lilly. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I grew up in the bridal business. My aunt and uncle owned bridal stores for over 40 years and now my cousin has taken over. I used to spend time at their stores after school when I was a kid. Growing up, I always had a passion for bridal gowns and design. I am passionate about the details that go into a bridal gown and truly believe that it is one of the most special gowns a woman will wear. I always dreamed of having my own shop. I was able to get into the business when an opportunity to buy a bridal shop presented itself in 2003. My husband and I decided to purchase it and take a chance at making my dream of owning a bridal shop, a reality. My sister also decided to join us in this business venture and we came up with the name, Merlili. A combination of both mine and her name. We have now been in business for 14 years and still love what we do. The business has changed significantly over the years and it has been and continues to be an adventure.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
There have been challenges along the way. The rise of the internet presented many new challenges for the small business. Brides started to take chances and making purchases for themselves and their bridal parties online. Unfortunately, many had to suffer the consequences by receiving inferior merchandise and then having to come into brick and mortar shops for a solution. We were able to adapt to offset the change. Thankfully now, the value of having a shop that you can trust as well as the experience has been recognized. After all, it is one of the most important garments a woman will wear.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Merlili Bridal Boutique – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
We are a family owned bridal boutique that specializes in delivering outstanding service to our brides and their families. Our gowns are selected to give the bride the couture look without the couture price tag. We pride ourselves stocking a variety of unique gowns for all types of weddings. We do customization of bridal gowns to fulfill religious requirements. We also carry a stunning selection of gowns for our curvy brides.

So, what’s next? Any big plans?
We are always looking for ways to refine our business and make it even more convenient for our brides. We have big automation changes in our future.

Pricing:

• Our gowns range in price from $1000-$4000
• Our bridesmaid’s gowns range in price from $185-$350

Contact Info:

• Address: 356 Miracle Mile
  Coral Gables, FL 33134
• Website: www.merlili.com
• Phone: 305-476-1715
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @merlilibridal
• Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/merlilibridals
• Other: http://www.pinterest.com/merlilibrides/boards

Image Credit:
Snap Happy Photography
Dolidze Studio

Getting in touch: VoyageMIA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.