Meet the Elite Secrets Bridal Team

To know and love Elite Secrets Bridal is to know the team behind this bridal powerhouse brand. The ladies here are the secret sauce to Baltimore’s award-winning bridal salon. Besides the most amazing gowns you’ve ever laid eyes on and head-turning hair and makeup styles, these ladies—along with their attention to detail, love for brides, and dedication to service—are the reason couples voted them best in the business four years in a row. So, without further ado, let’s meet the ESB Team.

Tonya, CEO, and Founder

 Fun facts about me: I’m a wife, mom, grandmom, and a true woman of God! 

I met the love of my life, we’ve been happily married for five years, and I still find myself sharing our love story to our brides. 

 I love hearing the “how we met” and “how he popped the question" stories from our brides. It’s the perfect dressing room conversation between gown changes.

 As the Bridal Shop Owner, I wear many hats like most business owners. I can genuinely say it doesn’t feel like work...EVER! 

As Founder and CEO of Elite Secrets Bridal, taking on the role of Beauty Advisor, Educator, Author, Mentor/Coach, and Business Strategist for our brand, I enjoy my role as Bridal Stylist the most. It’s the most fulfilling role of them all. From the moment the bride walks in the front door, we strive to provide a memorable experience--one she will cherish for a lifetime. When opening the doors to ESB, I wanted to provide a place where brides were inspired and super excited about taking steps to find the perfect dream dress for their special day. The glow in their eyes and excitement in their voice never gets old. 

We wanted a place where brides didn’t feel pressured to buy but felt that we are here to help them with putting together the perfect look…a look, they will feel proud to walk down the aisle with confidence. 

I’m blessed each day to do what I love and live in my purpose. It feels like a dream! 

 Sabrina, Bridal Events Manager

 Fun facts about me: I am an ESB bride! When I am not providing brides with elite service, I spend my nights delivering babies as a registered nurse. 

 I love my job because I get to wear many hats and incorporate fashion into what I do. I initially was drawn to the bridal scene after planning my own wedding. I came to find that the bridal industry is made up of interconnected businesses that work together to deliver the couples' dream experience. My favorite thing about this job is helping the bride discover her personal style as it applies to bridal. Through helping style a bride, you get to be part of a very intimate moment of her life. I’m not just selling dresses or service I am creating a special bond with my brides that carry through long after the wedding is over. 

“Pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work.”  -Aristotle 

 Hummera, Shop Assistant Manager/Makeup Artist 

 Fun facts about me: I will soon be a published makeup artist!  I’m adventurous and food junkie. 

 I am a mother, a wife, and a very passionate Makeup Artist with an outstanding record for client satisfaction and customer service. At present, I am working as a bridal stylist and assistant manager at Elite Secrets Bridal. I live and breathe makeup! My youngest one started school full time, that’s when I realized I wanted to advance my make-up skills a little bit more, so I decided to attend The Makeup Academy to become a certified MUA. 

  What I am most proud of is the fact that I can make a difference in someone’s Mood by making them look and feel beautiful.

  My real strength is my attention to detail and superior knowledge and extensive experience in skincare products. I pride and adept at perceiving the client's own unique skin tone and corresponding makeup requirements and recommending makeup products accordingly.

 As a professional makeup artist. I can create the look desired. Whether it’s a natural, fresh look with “barely-there” makeup or a more classic, sophisticated look, I will make sure your desired look is executed to perfection.

 Jasmine aka Bobbye, Bridal Model Stylist 

 Fun facts about me: I love playing dress up and styling the beautiful gowns. Check out our Instastories at @elitescretsbridal for all the fun, whenever there’s a trunk show and see what I put together! 



 I love working at ESB because I love to see and positively encourage “brides to be” on or around their special day! It’s such an emotional roller coaster when it comes to the process of wedding planning, so to be working in one of the happier parts of the process is so exciting and fulfilling when you know you’re helping to make someone happy!

If you’re ready to meet these ladies in person and say yes to your dress with their help, book your appointment now. With champagne in hand, we’re ready to service you.

CRISTIANO LUCCI TRUNK SHOW AT ELITE SECRETS BRIDAL

Clear your calendar Baltimore Brides, rally your tribe, and prepare to be wowed by gowns from your favorite designer. We will be celebrating Cristiano Lucci for an entire weekend, Friday, October 18th through Sunday, October 20th –it’s a can’t miss event for brides. Get a first glance at this exclusive trunk show at the Elite Secrets Bridal showroom.

For the fashion-conscious bride to be, Cristiano Lucci ignites the hopes and dreams of looking red carpet ready on a practical budget. The brand’s classic semi couture range promises to keep up with the latest trends of the glitterati, minus the expensive price tags. And even for the less dramatically inclined, Cristiano Lucci promises a new destination for timeless staples.

No ESB Trunk Show will be complete without surprises. You know how we love to spoil our brides. So, to make this trunk show even more special, we’re giving you 10% off your Cristiano Lucci gown and a free bridal hair and makeup trial (valued at $150). But you MUST say, “Yes” to the dress to redeem these goodies.

Beyond extraordinary gowns, shopping with Elite Secrets Bridal supports a worthy cause! A portion of the proceeds from retail sales of the bridal trunk show will go to For 3 Sisters, a Maryland-based nonprofit organization with a mission to raise awareness and improve the quality of life for men and women affected by breast cancer.

“For 3 Sisters’ commitment to men and women affected by breast cancer is unparalleled,” said LaTonya Turnage, bridal expert, and owner of Elite Secrets. “The organization’s core program, Road to Resources, provides resources for everyday needs so those affected can focus on fighting, surviving, and healing. Working with For 3 Sisters and knowing that our dresses are making a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer is everything to me.”

Imagine wedding dresses that will have your guests talking from the moment they lay eyes on you. Whether you plan to tie the knot in a garden ceremony or say I do in a city ballroom, this trunk show is THE place to find your perfect wedding dress.

Here’s how to attend this event and say yes to your Cristiano Lucci wedding dress:

1. Book your appointment between Friday, October 18th and Sunday, October 20th online at EliteSecretsBridal.com/contact or call 410.727.7000.

2. Grab your bride tribe. We’ll bring the champagne!

3. Let’s make magic! Our professional staff is ready to serve you and your tribe—with bubbly in hand.

EDITH ÉLAN RETURNS TO ELITE SECRETS BRIDAL

We heard you, and now we’re delivering. After many requests, we’re bringing Edith Élan back to Elite Secrets Bridal for a heavily requested encore trunk show—just for you!

Clear your calendar Baltimore Bride, rally your tribe, and prepare to be wowed by a well-curated selection of gowns from your favorite designer. It’s time to say “Yassss” to the dress!

For two weeks, we will be celebrating Edith Élan so mark your calendars for some serious dress shopping, August 24th through September 8th –it’s a can’t miss event for brides. Think timeless gowns, sassy, elegant sheaths, and fit and flare styles with a side of sexy, AND a 10% discount.

Edith Élan gowns are a reflection of the creative soul: the right amount of modern sophistication and vintage charm blended in perfect harmony. We are so excited for this encore trunk show and can’t wait for you to see these gorgeous gowns.

No Elite Secrets Bridal Trunk Show would be complete without a special treat. When you purchase your dress during the trunk show, you will receive $50 towards our bridal styling service.*

With an Elite Secrets Bridal stylist to help you select the perfect dress, assist you bustling and pinning on your Big Day, and coordinate your bridal party, you can relax and enjoy the days leading up to your wedding. Our team will:

• Help find “the” dress, as well as the perfect, sought-after accessories.

• Join on the Big Day to dress, bustle, button, and pin you to perfection.

• Guide the choice and coordination of all bridesmaids and groomsmen attire.

• Assist in honeymoon wardrobe, registry, and gift shopping.

Here’s how to attend this event and say yes to your Edith Élan wedding dress:

1.     Book your appointment between August 24th and September 8th online at EliteSecretsBridal.com/contact or call 410.727.7000.

2.     Grab your bride tribe. We’ll bring the champagne!

3.     Let’s make magic! Our professional staff is ready to serve you and your tribe—with bubbly in hand.

{Event Recap} Bridal Preview in the Plaza

On the evening of July 26th, Baltimore brides and influencers gathered at the Center Plaza in beautiful Downtown Baltimore for THE bridal event of the summer, The Bridal Preview at the Plaza.

Hosted in partnership by Elite Secrets Bridal and Southern Management Corporation, the runway show featured looks that included styles from the bridal boutique on Charles Street. There were bridal styles from Edith Elan Bridal, Allure, Madison James, Pronovias, and Elite’s signature line, the Pearl Collection.

Guests previewed decor ideas including a gorgeous hedge wall with balloon installation. This one-of-a-kind show highlighted the latest trends in hair and makeup, bridal, wedding décor, and Fleur De Lis Floral Design. But the experience didn’t stop there. Patrons were treated to a grand reception with music, dancing, bites and bubbles.  

The reception was grand, but bridal fashion show was the showstopper. Local influencer, Chyno (@theboywiththebluebeard) welcomed attendees and kept the audience engaged throughout the show.

To say Elite Secrets Bridal and Southern Management Corporation made a statement in Baltimore that evening is an understatement!

Special thanks to Southern Management Corporation @southernmanagementcorp for partnering with us and allowing us the opportunity! Thank you Downtown Partnership of Baltimore @downtownbaltimore, Lauren The Planner, Rowe 27 Events & Weddings @rowe27events, Fleur De Lis Floral Design @fleurdelisbaltimore, Sabrina Aloe @bria2882, MARZ Management + Consulting @marzenterprise, Chyno @theboywiththebluebeard, Karimah C., @blackflorasia, Edith Elan Bridal Designer @edith_elan,  Shot by Drice Photography @shotbydrice, and Creative Forte Events @creative_forte. THE HOST OF MODELS and of course Team ESB! We’re humbled to have pulled this off so close to our #bridalsoiree2019!

{Event Recap} Elite Secret Host Second Annual Spring Bridal Fashion Show

On the afternoon of April 14th, engaged couples, top individuals from the wedding industry, along with a variety of influencers gathered at Lift Studio in Baltimore. The event that brought these individuals together was the Bridal Fashion Soiree—Elite Secrets Second Annual Spring Fashion Show.

Hosted by Elite Secrets Bridal, the runway show featured looks that included styles from the bridal boutique on Charles Street. There were bridal styles from Allure, Madison James, Pronovias, Khemistry and Elite’s signature line, the Pearl Collection.

Guests were treated to bites and bottomless mimosas courtesy of Hoopla Catering and Phillips Seafood. Local influencers, Alysha (@discovercharmcity) and Chyno (@theboywiththebluebeard) welcomed attendees and kept the audience engaged throughout the show. And, DJ Drift kept the music pumping throughout the entire event.

This one-of-a-kind show highlighted the latest trends in hair and makeup, bridal and wedding decor. Guests previewed style ideas for all types of weddings, including a flower wall and décor inspiration from Jessica J Events and Kirby-Jay Conyette.

Elite Secrets Bridal made a statement in Baltimore that guests will never forget!

Special thanks to Sabrina Aloe @bria2882, Lashira Mone @lashiramone, Daniel Kaganov @dankathletics, Pronovias @pronovias, Jessica J Events @jessicajevents, Jes Whiteford @jawstudios, Hoopla Catering @hooplacatering, DJ Drift @iamdjdrift, Lift Studios @liftbmore, Kirby-Jay Conyette @ikamcreate, @m.agdaline, Alysha @discovercharmcity, Chyno @theboywiththebluebeard, Latanya Ridges-Turner @turner2007 , @greenhairbadass, Breath Taking Bouquets @breathtaking.bouquets, Phillips Seafood @phillipsseafood, Khemistry @k_khemistry88, Lakia Diggs @thekiaxperience, Hummera @hummerakhanmua, Amanda Quinonez @sassypanda, Doralee @lowleezy, Rowe 27 Events & Weddings @rowe27events, Anna Spigone @annamazinghair, Oh Snap Pic Me Photo Booth@ohsnappicmephotobooth, and the host of models and on-hand volunteers who jumped in and did their part to make this another amazing year! We’re so grateful words can’t express our appreciation! Lastly, we’d like to thank the attendees...you’re the real MVP’s!!! You’re the reason why we do it!

Enjoy a behind the scenes video and photos from our amazing event below. To view social media event photos, please search the hashtag #ESBEvents and #SpringBridalSoiree2019 on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

SPRING HAPPENINGS AT ELITE SECRETS BRIDAL

Tis the season for saying yes to the wedding dress of your dreams. We have trunk shows all spring season—just for you!

Clear your calendar Baltimore Bride, rally your tribe, and prepare to be wowed by a well-curated selection of gowns from your favorite designers. Get a first glance at the new collections from two exclusive shows.

We start off the season of spring bridal fashion with our 2nd Annual Spring Bridal Fashion Show on Sunday, April 14th from 3 PM to 6 PM at Lift Studio. An affair for the stylish, the Bridal Fashion Soiree, is Baltimore’s premier luxury bridal event, featuring the hottest trends in bridal couture. Preview some of the latest looks in bridal fashion, hair, makeup, floral design, and décor. We’ve teamed up with some of Baltimore’s top-tier wedding vendors to deliver this one-of-a-kind show. Tickets available at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/elite-secrets-bridal-hosts-bridal-fashion-soiree-tickets-58106451962.

Pronovias is back for a trunk show to stop all trunk shows. For three days, we will be celebrating Pronovias’ White Collection so mark your calendars for some serious dress shopping, May 3rd through 5th –it’s a can’t miss event for brides. Think classic A-line gowns, sassy, elegant sheaths, and fit and flare styles with a side of sexy, AND a 10% discount.

Imagine wedding dresses that will have your guests talking from the moment they lay eyes on you. Whether you plan to tie the knot in a garden ceremony or say I do in a city ballroom, Elite Secrets Bridal’s Pronovias Trunk Show is THE place to find your perfect wedding dress.

Here’s how to attend this event and say yes to your Pronovias wedding dress:

1. Book your appointment between Thursday, May 3rd and Sunday, May 5th online at EliteSecretsBridal.com/contact or call 410.727.7000.

2. Grab your bride tribe. We’ll bring the champagne!

3. Let’s make magic! Our professional staff is ready to serve you and your tribe—with bubbly in hand.

Want to look flawless on your wedding day? We’ve got you covered. Make your appointment today! Bridal hair and makeup trials are half off until March 31!!

Elite Secrets Bridal to Host Second Annual Spring Bridal Fashion Show, April 14

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Elite Secrets Bridal to Host Second Annual Spring Bridal Fashion Show, April 14 

Baltimore, MD—Elite Secrets Bridal, Baltimore’s premier destination for bridal fashion and beauty will celebrate their 2nd Annual Spring Bridal Fashion Show on Sunday, April 14th from 3 PM to 6 PM at Lift Studio.

An affair for the stylish, the Bridal Fashion Soiree, is a premier luxury bridal event, featuring the hottest trends in bridal couture. The event creates the perfect ambiance to preview some of the latest looks in bridal fashion, hair, makeup, floral design, and décor. The bridal house has teamed up with some of Baltimore’s top-tier wedding vendors to deliver this one-of-a-kind show. Guests can expect to see some of this year’s hottest trends including a flower wall and décor inspiration from Jessica J Events and Kirby-Jay Conyette, live DJ performances by DJ Drift, and more.

Mix and mingle with engaged couples, wedding tribes, vendors, and local influencers over cocktails and bites. Enjoy the pancake bar and bottomless mimosas courtesy of Hoopla Catering. Then, indulge in tasty seafood from Phillips Seafood.

Attendees will preview collections from some of your favorite designers, Allure, Pronovias, The Pearl Collection, and more. Guests will have a chance to win the wedding dress of their dreams (value up to $2000). Attendees will receive a raffle ticket upon entry. The lucky winner will be selected live during the show.

Local influencers, Alysha (@discovercharmcity) and Chyno (@theboywiththebluebeard) will once again grace the stage as co-hosts for the event.

When asked about the thought of creating a bridal fashion show of this magnitude, LaTonya Turnage, the Owner of Elite Secrets Bridal and Creator of Bridal Fashion Soiree states "I'm so excited about the upcoming fashion show! My company is curating the best in bridal fashion and beauty trends! This is not your typical fashion show. We have lots of surprises in store for this event."

To attend the Bridal Fashion Soiree, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/elite-secrets-bridal-hosts-bridal-fashion-soiree-tickets-58106451962 for tickets. Care to join the conversation on the Bridal Fashion Soiree and share with your friends that you’re attending? Please use the official event hashtag #SpringBridalSoiree2019.

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LaTonya Turnage Launches Membership Network to support aspiring and tenured beauty professionals

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA CONTACT

Angel West

Mahogany Blue Public Relations

312.375.2752

awest@mahoganybluepr.com

LaTonya Turnage Launches Membership Network to support

aspiring and tenured beauty professionals

Baltimore, MD— (March 13, 2019) – This week marks the soft launch of LaTonya Turnage’s Beauty Business Unplugged, a membership network will provide members with training and resources for beauty professionals in the makeup, hair, and nail industries. Beauty Business Unplugged will offer members access to a variety of training designed to enhance business acumen, professional skills, and meet licensing requirements. Business development and financial management programs will be offered to assist owners with best practices on business operations, marketing, and accounting principles.

The online community for beauty entrepreneurs who want to create and connect over beauty, business, passion, and profits could not come at a better time. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly one million people working in the primary service segments of the beauty market, and there are strong growth expectations. Researchers predict between 10 and 22 percent growth in service providers by 2024. Beauty Business Unplugged will help strengthen beauty entrepreneurs’ businesses so they can build sustainable and thriving companies and offer quality service.

“The Beauty Business Unplugged is thrilled to be able to position beauty entrepreneurs for success,” said LaTonya Turnage, CEO, Elite Secrets and Founder of Beauty Business Unplugged. “Given the number of novice service providers entering the industry, the need to support these businesses is especially critical. I created this group to connect with others and cultivate a community for beauty entrepreneurs looking to turn their passion into profits, who value community over competition and crave to learn more about the businesses they desire to grow.”

Membership will open officially on Wednesday, March 27, 2019. To learn more about Beauty Business Unplugged, visit https://www.beautybusinessunplugged.com/.

# # #

Are you a beauty pro looking to generate coin for your creativity NOW? Join us for the Beauty Business Accelerator Webinar. It’s going down on Wednesday, March 27th at 6 PM EST.

Allure Trunk Show at Elite Secrets Bridal, March 1-3

The options of breathtaking wedding gowns are endless. There’s no doubt as to why dress shopping is every bride’s favorite part of the wedding planning process. Whether your style is modern and sleek, or romantic with all the frills, you can find the most gorgeous gowns at Baltimore’s finest wedding dress boutique, Elite Secrets Bridal.

And you’re in luck, Maryland brides, ESB is hosting an Allure Trunk Show in just a few weeks (March 1-3). You don’t want to miss this opportunity to say, “Yes” to jaw-droppingly gorgeous gowns from Allure’s spring and fall 2019 collections!

Imagine wedding dresses that will have your guests talking from the moment they lay eyes on you. Whether you plan to tie the knot in a garden ceremony or say I do in a city ballroom, Elite Secrets Bridal’s Allure Trunk Show is THE place to find your perfect wedding dress.

Beyond extraordinary gowns, shopping with Elite Secrets Bridal supports a worthy cause! A portion of the proceeds from retail sales of the bridal trunk shows will go to For 3 Sisters, a Maryland-based nonprofit organization with a mission to raise awareness and improve the quality of life for men and women affected by breast cancer.

“For 3 Sisters’ commitment to men and women affected by breast cancer is unparalleled,” said LaTonya Turnage, bridal expert, and owner of Elite Secrets. “The organization's core program, Road to Resources, provides resources for everyday needs so those affected can focus on fighting, surviving, and healing. Working with For 3 Sisters and knowing that our dresses are making a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer is everything to me.”

What would an Elite Secrets Bridal Trunk Show be without surprises for you? Since we’re celebrating our fourth anniversary, the first four brides who say “yes to the dress” will receive a $100 gift toward her wedding bouquet from our friends at Roni’s Roses Floral Design.

And, there’s more…

EVERY bride will receive 10% off her dress purchased during the trunk show weekend. Now, how’s that for ELITE service?

Here’s how to attend this event and say yes to your Allure wedding dress:

1. Book your appointment TODAY online at EliteSecretsBridal.com/contact or call 410.727.7000 (appointment slots fill up quickly).

2. Grab your bride tribe. We’ll supply the champagne!

3. Let’s make magic! Our professional staff is ready to serve you and your tribe—with bubbly in hand.

Elite Secrets earns 2019 Awards from WeddingWire and TheKnot

 Break out the bubbly—again—we have another reason to celebrate! We are thrilled to announce that we are the recipients of WeddingWire’s 2019 Couples’ Choice Award and The Knot’s 2019 Best of Weddings Award! We cannot imagine starting off the year any better than this. Not one, but two prestigious awards from the couples we serve. Read on to learn more.

WEDDINGWIRE

This is the third consecutive win for Elite Secrets and each win is celebrated like the first.  Announced last week, WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards celebrate the top five percent of wedding professionals who demonstrate excellence in quality, service, responsiveness and professionalism across more than 20 service categories, from wedding venues and photographers to florists and caterers.

Winners are selected solely based on reviews by couples and are determined by a combination of four factors: overall rating, total number of reviews, review performance from 2018, and consistency of reviews from year to year.

Here’s some of the great things our couples had to say on WeddingWire:

“My experience was nothing short of perfect. Mrs. Turnage was very attentive to my needs. She does not rush or pressure you. She makes you feel like you are the only one in the room and gives you her undivided attention. She has many gowns to choose from. The setting in her place is very relaxing. I recommend this establishment to anyone looking to purchase a gown for whatever occasion.”

 —Sharon

“My experience with Elite Secerts was amazing. I was looking for a wedding gown and found exactly what I was looking for. Tonya Turnage was so pleasant and helpful. Her professionalism is wonderful. Elite Secrets is the place to go for Bridal gowns and accessories. Also, for any makeup and hair for your special day. My experience there was and always will be unforgettable. Thank you Elite Secrets!”

—Deborah

The Knot Best of Weddings 2019 from Pure Platinum Party on Vimeo.

THE KNOT

Of the hundreds of thousands of local wedding professionals on The Knot, 14,025 received the prestigious “Best of Weddings” accolade this year. To determine the winners, The Knot analyzed its millions of user reviews across various vendor categories. The prestigious award honors those wedding professionals who have both the highest ratings and most reviews from real couples, their families and wedding guests on The Knot. We are thrilled to accept this honor!

Here’s some of the great things our couples had to say on TheKnot:

“Elite Secrets Bridal was absolutely wonderful in every capacity. My bridesmaids and I had such a fun filled day trying on dresses. Tonya was so comfortable, helpful, and accommodating with everything we needed!! After I purchased my dress, they completed fittings and alterations and bustling for my dress as well as my partners. They had a full team to do the hair and makeup for my partner and I's bridal party of 15 women, 2 MOB's, and both of us! Tonya's talents for makeup were incredible and we were so happy the day of. We highly recommend them!!”

 —Stephanie  

“They’re so personal friendly and, informative. My Bridal consultant Sabrina is beautiful and, so patient she allowed me to try on as many dresses as I needed. You want a great experience as a Bride... Elite Secrets is the place to be; Tonya, the owner, is often on site and also very helpful. Can you imagine the owner helping you decide head pieces and, telling you how beautiful you look or calling you a princess? I can Thank you so much Elite Secrets for making this Brides experience so wonderful. I said yes to the dress!”

—Miesha

You (the couples), chose us and now we want to celebrate you. To thank you we’re giving brides HALF OFF hair and makeup trials. Yes, that’s 50% off your bridal trial with Elite Secrets. Book your appointments here. We can’t wait to meet you!

Elite Secrets Bridal's Year 2018 Review

Two thousand eighteen was a stellar year for Elite Secrets Bridal. This past year has been one of growth and blessings—we have seen the fruits of our hard work. And, in case you missed some of our most memorable moments, here are our favorite highlights of 2018.

1.    Baltimore Weddings’ Aisle Style (formerly known as Baltimore Bride’s Aisle Style).

The year started with a bang. We kicked off 2018 under the roof of the Four Seasons Baltimore for Aisle Style. The team of makeup experts had the distinct honor of providing makeup for models who walked the runway at the well-attended annual fashion show. The models were stunning, and so was the ESB team.

2.    Awards all around.

If we had to name the year, we would call it the year of reward. This year, Elite Secrets took home the Wedding Wire Couples Choice Award (the third consecutive award), The Knot’s Best of, and Baltimore’s Downtown Partnership Award.

3.    Spring into The Grand.

In May, ESB hosted their first ever fashion show in partnership with The Grand Baltimore: Spring into The Grand. Fashions from some of your favorite designers including debuting label house, Khemistry, showcased collections to a packed house of Baltimore’s fashion elites.

4.    In-store events.

The Elite Secrets Bridal Showroom is known for its stunning high ceilings, gorgeous windows, beautiful floors and now some of Baltimore’s best events. This year the gorgeous venue was the backdrops to trunk shows, Valentine’s Day pop-up with Fluffy Pop, Vows 101 Event, fashion previews and more.

5.    ESB takes over DEB.

Yes, Elite Secrets Bridal took over Diner en Blanc Baltimore. The takeover started with filmed lessons on what to wear with the beauty and fashion guru, LaTonya Turnage and ended with a fun night at the famous dinner overlooking Baltimore.

6.    A Beauty Week to remember.

The last week of February is Random Acts of Kindness Week and beauty week, but at Elite Secrets Bridal kindness is far from random. For the cause that celebrates spreading kindness for global impact, the team spent a day giving back to the women of the House of Ruth Maryland in true Elite Secrets Bridal fashion—serving makeup applications, hair styling, gift bags and an overall day of beauty.  It was a moment to remember!

7.     They said yes!!

Helping brides is what team Elite does best. We could not let the year end without mentioning all the brides that said yes to the dress, hair or makeup in 2018. Thank you all!

8.    Styled Shoot Collaborations.

Elite Secrets teamed up with local wedding pros for many fun collaborations this year, and the themes were just as exciting. From Black Panther to Rainbow Chic, and Industrial Glam to DC Wedding Week we partnered with some fantastic creatives for some of the hottest styled shoots you can imagine.

9.    Featured press and more featured press.

From TV segments on BMore Lifestyle and Fox Morning News to national features in MunaLuchi Bride, Wedding Chicks, Every Last Detail, Elite Secrets was seen everywhere. See the full spread on our Press Page here.

10.    And, to cap off the year, Elite Secrets debuted the Pearl Collection!

The wedding gown collection features six unique styles for the modern bride—sleek and sexy silhouettes, fantasy ballgowns, lace and jewel embellishments. The collection will be available exclusively at Elite Secrets Bridal.

As hard as it is to say goodbye to 2018, we look forward to even more great things to come in 2019. Make your appointment with Elite Secrets Bridal in the new year. We can’t wait to start the year with you. Happy New Year!

Winter Trunk Shows at Elite Secrets Bridal

‘Tis the season for saying yes to the wedding dress of your dreams. We have trunk shows all winter season—just for you!

Clear your calendar Baltimore Bride, rally your tribe, and prepare to be wowed by a well-curated selection of gowns from your favorite designers. Get a first glance at the 2019 collections from four exclusive trunk shows at Elite Secrets Bridal. Enjoy 10% off all gowns and 50% off bridal hair and makeup trials.

Beyond extraordinary gowns, shopping with Elite Secrets Bridal supports a worthy cause! A portion of the proceeds from retail sales of the bridal trunk shows will go to For 3 Sisters, a Maryland-based nonprofit organization with a mission to raise awareness and improve the quality of life for men and women affected by breast cancer.

“For 3 Sisters’ commitment to men and women affected by breast cancer is unparalleled,” said LaTonya Turnage, bridal expert, and owner of Elite Secrets. “The organization's core program, Road to Resources, provides resources for everyday needs so those affected can focus on fighting, surviving, and healing. Working with For 3 Sisters and knowing that our dresses are making a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer is everything to me.”

We can’t wait to celebrate this holiday season and see you at the trunk shows. Book your appointment now!

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Pronovias

We start the season of trunk shows with gowns from Pronovias. For ten days, we will be celebrating Pronovias’ White Collection so mark your calendars for some serious dress shopping, November 30th through December 9th –it’s a can’t miss event for brides. Think classic A-line gowns, sassy, elegant sheaths, and fit and flare styles with a side of sexy, AND a 10% discount.

Madison James

The Madison James Collection is the dream of any modern, sophisticated bride. Featuring fresh silhouettes, avant-garde fabrics, and innovative lace textures and patterns, Madison James is equal parts romantic and chic. Beading and gorgeous embellishments accentuate the unique, clean designs. The collection aims to highlight the breathtaking beauty of a woman in love. Make your appointment to preview this stunning collection December 13th through December 16th and save 10% off your dream Madison James dress.

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Edith Élan

Edith Élan gowns are a reflection of a creative soul: the right amount of modern sophistication and vintage charm blended in perfect harmony.  A new collection for us, we are so excited to welcome this line to the Elite Secrets Bridal and can’t wait for you to see these gorgeous gowns. Ring in the new year with this amazing trunk show, December 28th through January 14th. Book your appointment now.

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Jean Ralph Thurin

If you’re searching for timeless elegance with the perfect fit, your search is over. Jean Ralph Thurin’s attention to the fit of the dress is truly unmatched. The luxury designer will partner with Elite Secrets Bridal for an exclusive trunk show February 21st through February 24th. Don’t miss your opportunity to see this collection and experience the allure of the wedding gowns that almost always go viral.

Elite Secrets Awarded for Excellence in Business by Downtown Partnership of Baltimore

Last night was nothing short of amazing! Our CEO, LaTonya Turnage, was awarded by the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore for her dedication to business in the community. This recognition comes on the heels of another stellar business quarter and successful trunk show.

Bridal Beauty Expert and Founder of Elite Secrets Bridal

Other prestigious honorees include Mayor Catherine Pugh, National Aquarium, and Mercy Medical Center.

The honoree, CEO of Elite Secrets Bridal, LaTonya Turnage

Here’s what our founder had to say “I was honored to accept The Business Award from Downtown Partnership of Baltimore for the uniqueness to my business and our contribution to the downtown businesses on Charles Street! I’m still on a high and overwhelmed with this year of favor. Let me just say NOTHING happens without God!!! 2018 has been our #bestyearyet! The faith walk hasn’t been easy but I’ve put my faith in God and he has delivered on every promise. It’s like the flood gates have opened. I still can’t believe it! We’re thrilled over here at ESB and looking forward to what 2019 will bring. Thank you to each and every one of you for the love, support, and encouragement. A special thank you to my forever love partner, my family, our ESB team…without you where would we be, and THE BEST publicist in the world, Mahogany Blue PR!! As I type this post, I’m praying that this will reach just even one person who needs that extra dose of encouragement this morning. This little brown girl from Baltimore is in it to win it! Stay encouraged friends!

Mr. and Mrs. Tony Turnage at the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore award ceremony

Well said and well deserved! We can’t wait to share all the incredible things we have in store for 2019!

Downtown Partnership of Baltimore

Want to partner with a winner? Make your appointment with the award-winning shop for Baltimore brides today. Book your wedding dress consultation, bridal hair and makeup trials here. We can’t wait to serve you!

Happy Birthday, LaTonya!

It’s been quite the year for our lady boss, LaTonya. Between opening a new bridal showroom to overseeing makeup for Baltimore Bride’s Aisle Style to producing the amazing Spring into the Grand Fashion show and loads of press, this past year has been one for the books! 

To add to the celebration, the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore will honor our founder with the prestigious Downtown Partnership Award! This award is reserved for the region's most influential business, government, and community leaders.

Related: Our CEO, Featured on Baltimore Bride Magazine

That’s why we want to take today to celebrate the birthday lady and wish her some well-deserved relaxation …and cake and champagne wouldn’t hurt either!

We can’t wait to see what this next chapter has in store for you! Happy birthday, LaTonya!

XO,

Team Elite

P.S. Now you know we cannot celebrate without our Elite Brides. We’ve got a BIG surprise for you. An announcement is coming soon, but don’t let that stop you from booking your consultation with us today. Click here to make your bridal appointment and don't forget to wish LaTonya happy birthday!

P.P.S. Enjoy some of the highlights from her fantastic year.

We have a new home!

IT’S OFFICIAL! It is with great pleasure and much anticipation that we announce that we have a new home—online that is.

We now have a storefront on TheKnot.com. Check out our new digs here.  See images of our gowns, learn all about Elite Secrets Bridal and our CEO. There’s even an opportunity to make an appointment. Come back regularly for store specials, events, reviews, and more.

"We're so excited to have a prominent presence on The Knot. It is such an iconic publication in the bridal world and we're happy to be there, says LaTonya Turnage, owner and founder of Elite Secrets Bridal. 

Summer is here and the wedding season is underway. It's time to say yes to the dress! Book your appointment with us today. We can't wait to serve you. 

Our CEO, LaTonya Turnage, featured on Baltimore Bride Magazine

We are thrilled to share that our CEO, LaTonya Turnage, was featured in Baltimore Bride Magazine's new online series, "Ask the Expert." In the inaugural post, our bridal beauty expert shared her story on starting Elite Secrets Bridal.

There were tons of tips for brides about everything from how many people you should bring to your dress appointment (the answer might surprise you), the key to finding the perfect dress and her favorite part of helping a bride: “Once they find their perfect dress and they’re caught in the moment and everyone is crying, we do something special here. While the bride is in her dress, we put on a nice song for her and she’ll do a walk. We ask the bride what song, whether it’s her first dance song or one she’s considering. Everyone in the room is crying and emotional. It never gets old; every time I feel like family.” 

Read all about our expert and see more images at http://www.baltimorebridemagazine.com/blog/2018/6/21/ask-the-expert-bridal-shop-proprietor.

Summer is here and the wedding season is underway. Book your appointment today and say yes to your dream dress. We can't wait to serve you. 

Elite Secrets Featured on Every Last Detail

This wedding is for a special type of bride who envisions a tad more than an elopement, but less than a larger wedding. She wants the intimacy of close friends surrounding her on her special day, celebrating in the space she feels the most comfortable: home. The patterns and colors of the mid-sixties tied together envelope this grown-up, eclectic woman. The team at Jade & Joy Events wanted to capture the vision of a modern couple who loves mid-century design and wants a colorful, updated take on that style for their day.

VENDORS WHO MADE IT ALL HAPPEN…

Photography: Mary Sarah Photography // Venue: Women’s Club of Bethesda // Event Planning: Jade & Joy Events// Floral: Flor De Casa Designs // Stationery: Vintage Fleur Designs // Wedding Cake: Sorby Sweets // Rentals: Boheme’s Jubilee // Tableware: Ann Margaret Ceramics // Hair, Makeup, Veil, Wedding Dress, and Bridal Salon: Elite Secrets Bridal // Backdrops: DNicole Settings // Groom’s Attire: Christopher Schafer Clothier // Bride’s Shoes: H&M // Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids + Jenny Yoo + Watters Bridal // Jewelry: Blanca Flor Silver Jewelry// Headpiece: Ilieana George Couture

Love this bride's look? We've got you covered. Say yes to the dress, bridal hair and makeup at Elite Secrets Bridal. Book your appointment today. We can't wait to see you! 

Award-winning Bridal Beauty Expert, LaTonya Turnage, Featured on BMore Lifestyle TV

Founder and owner of Elite Secrets Bridal, LaTonya Turnage, sat down with the hosts of BMore Lifestyle TV this Monday for a segment on wedding dresses. The award-winning bridal beauty expert talked about the royal wedding looks in the West—similar to Duchess Meghan Markle’s style, and trends inspired by the East. In the segment, Elite Secrets Bridal featured designs from Allure’s Madison James Collection and a custom couture gown from Khemistry, LLC.—exclusively sold at Elite Secrets Bridal.

And, of course the hair and makeup was professionally by the award-winning beauty team at Elite Secrets.

Looking to say yes to your dream dress? Or, ready to catch a beat for your wedding day hair and makeup? We’ve got you covered! Book your consultation today. We can’t wait to service you and your bridal party!

Elite Secrets Featured on Wedding Chicks

We are thrilled to announce that we were featured on wildly popular wedding blog, Wedding Chicks!  Read all about the design details and inspiration for this Industrial Chic styled shoot.

Accessories: Ilieana George Couture

Cakes & Catering: Yia Yia's Bakery

Coordinators & Stylists: Bird of Paradise Events

Flowers: Bella Fiori Flowers

Groom: Tuxedo House

Hair, Makeup & Beauty: Elite Secrets

Lighting: 27 Studios

Paper Goods: Devine Designs by Diesha

Photographers: Clapp Studios

Rentals: Select Event Group

Venues: Studio 4

Wedding Dresses: Elite Secrets

The Grand and Elite Secrets Bridal to Host Inaugural Spring into The Grand Bridal Fashion Show, May 30

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA CONTACT

Angel West

Mahogany Blue Public Relations

312.375.2752

awest@mahoganybluepr.com

The Grand and Elite Secrets Bridal to Host Inaugural Spring into The Grand Bridal Fashion Show, May 30

Baltimore, MD— The Grand, one of the most distinct, sophisticated, and unique event venues in Baltimore, and Elite Secrets Bridal, Baltimore’s premier destination for bridal fashion and beauty celebrate their inaugural Spring into The Grand Bridal Fashion Show on Wednesday, May 30th from 6 PM to 8 PM at The Grand.

An affair for the stylish, Spring into The Grand is a premier luxury bridal event, featuring the hottest trends in bridal couture. The event creates the perfect ambiance to preview some of the latest trends in bridal fashion, hair, and makeup. Mix and mingle with engaged couples, wedding tribes, vendors, and local influencers at the signature champagne bar before the show.

Attendees will preview collections from vendor partners Bella Bridesmaids, Khemistry, and Taylor Wood Clothier. The fashion show will be hosted by local influencers, Alysha (@discovercharmcity) and Chyno (@theboywiththebluebeard).

When asked about the thought of creating a bridal fashion show of this magnitude, LaTonya Turnage, the Owner of Elite Secrets Bridal and the co-Creator of Spring into The Grand states "I'm so excited about the upcoming fashion show! My company is curating the best in bridal fashion and beauty trends! The guests will be over the moon happy with the caliber of collections that will be featured. I love all things bridal, so this is another creative way to give back to the industry I love working in!"

To attend Spring into The Grand Bridal Fashion Show, please visit springintothegrand.eventbrite.com to RSVP for this free event. Care to join the conversation on Spring into The Grand and share with your friends that you’re attending? Please use the official event hashtag #SpringintoTheGrand2018.

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