When Charlotte’s Kids second opened in 1980, Communion gown- buying time was disorganized. Individuals may arrive at the last minute to make purchases for the big event and have to wait for a room to store items or someone to help them.
However, the experience has changed at the business in North Bellmore and at family’s outlets across Long Island especially after the introduction of pre-scheduled appointments following the pandemic.
“Then they really get waited on and are aided. They love it”, says Charlotte Lapidus, chairman of Charlotte’s Kids. “We walk around and assist them in taking their gowns off the racks because we have a program, we have a seat for the families to enjoy, and we have a sofa for them to sit on. It’s almost like buying a wedding clothing”.
The Communion outfit shopping experience on Long Island, for those who recognize the spiritual milestone, has become like shopping for a young girl’s second “big” gown, complete with the most significant part: the 7- year- olds saying “yes to the dress”.
Deanna Chassen, a clothing designer, claims that when she opened her St. James store, Buttons and Bows, about a decade ago, she was a part of the development of this “Say Yes the Dress” experience.
“They show up with their whole home — mom, dad, aunt, maybe even a canine shows up”, Chassen says. “It’s not just clothing searching, it’s a complete memory”.
Communion dress-buying period can then begin in some stores as early as October, but it really kicks off in January and March to get ready for the big day in the spring.
The First Holy Communion is a religious festival honoring the first time someone receives the Eucharist, which is the food of the Last Supper, as celebrated in some Christian beliefs. It occurs at the end of a size and is usually observed when a child reaches the ages of 7 or 8. Some families may wear clothing from years past, while others will purchase new clothing.
White dresses or tuxedoes are included in the communicable attire. Salons also carry accessories like as rosary beads, brooches, shoes, bags and more.
Families spend a wide range of prices for Communion dresses, from around $85 to upward of $1, 500. Various women want various styles, too. A group of business associates are waiting to assist customers in choosing what they like and trying on dresses when they walk into a shop.
“We know not everyone has an unlimited budget, while some folks want to go luxurious and over the top”, says Pamela Atkinson, user of My Princess Jean Boutique in St. James. We’ll make an opinion statement when asked, but we want it to be about them, their preferences, and what they like.
Daisy Salvia, 46, of Melville, went costume shopping with her child, Giuliana, 7, and her mother’s friend, Scarlet Glennon, 8, of Glen Cove. Both women said “yes” when they first tried on the dress at Keys and Bows.
“She wanted definitely something that was very stylish but simple… something that stood out”, Daisy says of Giuliana. That’s precisely what she found. “It’s velvet and it has a few small diamonds round”.
For Giuliana, finding a costume she was pleasant in– and therefore rapidly– is a big deal. My daughter and her friend don’t both like wearing dresses. They basically really enjoyed the entire experience, Daisy says, as well as the fact that they were both able to find a costume that they really liked.
Giuliana makes her fellowship May 4 at her school, Holy Child Academy in Old Westbury. Mother spent about $412 and purchased a nose piece.
It’s almost like buying a bridal gown.
– Charlotte Lapidus, chairman of Charlotte’s Children
It was a fantastic practice for the ladies from the moment we entered until we were finished, Daisy says. “It was almost like, I remember, picking my personal marriage clothing”.
Saying “yes” gives children a sense of confidence, explains Linda Hill, user of Natalia’s Children’s Boutique in Wantagh. “There are so many choices that are made for children, but when they put it on and feel great about it, they make the choice that feels best for them. It gives them a bit of freedom, and I think it’s crucial for their personal value and trust”.
Charlotte’s Children
529 Bedford Ave., Bellmore
This business is appointment-based during the communion season, but the business you provide walk-ins who are willing to delay. “I said indeed to the costume” mark is provided. Gadgets are available, including boots, gloves, masks, wigs, jewels, rosary pearls, stockings, boots, sweaters, capes, jackets and personal handbags. Prices range from $85-$500. Additionally, the store sells boys’ suits, which cost about $135.
More details 516- 799- 8041
My Princess Clothes
556 Route 25A Suite 16, St. James
The retailer accepts walk-ins as well as meetings. There are two fitting rooms, but two sessions can occur together. The store has a range of both set- to- wear gowns and versace dresses that can be customized, as well as accessories, including necklace beads. ” I said yes to the dress” sign is provided. Dresses range from$ 125-$ 1, 500. Boys ‘ three- piece suits are around$ 175.
More info 631- 315- 3655,
Buttons and Bows
425 N. Country Rd., St. James
The boutique schedules private, 60- minute appointments for each girl making her Communion. Two volunteers provide assistance throughout the session. ” I said yes to the dress” sign is provided, and families go home with photo and video from the experience. Girls also leave with a Rice Krispie treat, cake pop, or chocolate-covered Oreo that reads” I said yes” on it. Accessories such as tiaras, veils, tights, shoes, rosary beads, bouquets, robes, after- party outfits, pettiskirts and bags are available. Dress prices range from$ 400-$ 1, 500. The shop also has boys ‘ suits for$ 200-$ 300.
More info 347- 267- 8059
Natalia’s Children’s Boutique
1237 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh
Appointments are recommended for a more personalized experience, but they are not required. “I said yes to the dress” sign is provided, and shop will do a photo shoot. Accessories, including veils, shoes, tiaras, pocketbooks and more are available. Dresses range from $175-$500 and suits from $90-$125.
More info 516- 804- 6244,
With Meghan Giannotta