B Brides often put too much pressure on themselves

Lorane Burda, a former flight attendant with over two decades of experience, has transformed her passion for fashion and sustainability into a unique bridal boutique called Brautstories in Baden. The shop, located at Gutenbrunner Straße 1, opened in autumn 2023 and offers a distinctive approach to wedding dresses. Burda, who once worked internationally and later found her calling after retiring from aviation, combines her love for style with a commitment to environmental responsibility. Her business model revolves around second-hand wedding gowns, which she acquires from private individuals and other retailers, ensuring these garments find new life while supporting both the seller and the buyer. The concept behind Brautstories is simple yet powerful: each dress carries a story. Customers can see handwritten notes attached to many of the pieces, detailing the history of the garment. These are typically second-hand items that have been passed down or discarded by previous owners. When a dress finds its way to a new bride, the original owner receives a share of the profit. This system allows Burda to create a sense of continuity and emotional connection between past and present brides. “I make two brides happy,” she explains, “the one who wants to sell her dress and the one who finds it at an affordable price.” Burda’s collection has grown significantly since opening, now featuring more than 300 dresses in a wide range of sizes. A portion of this inventory comes from stores that have closed, and she expresses deep gratitude for their trust. “They would have had to throw away the dresses otherwise,” she says, adding that the idea of discarding such beautiful clothing fills her with sorrow. To address this, she also stocks unused dresses from previous collections, often high-quality pieces originally priced much higher. These are sold at a fraction of the original cost, making them accessible to a broader audience. Some of the most affordable options start at just 50 euros, while others, from renowned designers, are available for roughly a third of their original price. For customers seeking vintage elegance, Brautstories offers a curated selection of dresses over 30 years old. One example is a gown worn by Isabella during her wedding in 1967. The store also features bold styles from the 1980s and 1990s, catering to those who appreciate retro flair. For alterations, Burda recommends a trusted local seamstress in Baden, who has decades of experience and can tailor each dress to fit perfectly. This collaboration reflects her broader philosophy of working closely with local businesses, creating a network of support within the community. In an era marked by rising costs and heightened expectations, Burda emphasizes the importance of feeling comfortable in one's wedding attire rather than chasing perfection. She often advises brides against scheduling multiple fittings, noting how this practice can lead to unnecessary stress. Instead, she encourages them to focus on the emotional connection they feel with a particular dress. “You might look great in many dresses,” she tells them, “but you need to feel confident in yours.” This advice underscores her belief that happiness on the wedding day stems from authenticity and comfort, not just aesthetics.