Bridal shop buys and renovates building

Bridal shop buys and renovates building

Renee Austin Wedding in Grand Rapids says it features "the latest designs in bridal couture for the fashion-forward bride." Photo via fb.com

A bridal shop is moving from the West Side to a larger space in town.

Renee Austin Wedding is in the process of moving to the Beckett Building in Grand Rapids' Creston neighborhood, at 1555 Plainfield Ave. NE, which it purchased for $155,000 and spent about $250,000 on for renovations.

The retailer had operated for the past seven years at 442 Bridge St. NW, while it looked for a building to purchase, owner Maggie Feil said.

Renee Austin Wedding will close its current location from Oct. 25-28 and re-open in the new store on Oct. 29.

“We found the charm and growth in the Creston area appealing, and we’re excited to have the opportunity to create a space that’s exactly how we want it,” Feil said.

The 3,400-square-foot store will feature bridal gowns, bridesmaid dresses and accessories. The store will have four fitting rooms and four bridesmaid rooms.

The space also includes a 1,525-square-foot apartment on the second floor, which is being updated for a potential long-term rental.

Firms on the project

NAI Wisinski of West Michigan broker Scott Nurski found the space for the retailer, while GR8 Contracting is performing the space’s build out.

Grand Rapids-based Lake Michigan Credit Union financed the deal for Renee Austin Wedding, and Grand Rapids-based Sun Title handled the title work.

Renee Austin Wedding

Feil started Renee Austin Wedding in 2009.

The retailer has eight employees.

Renee Austin Occasions, also owned by Fiel, will remain in operation at 701 Fulton St. W, selling prom, mother-of-the bride and other dresses.