Trudy’s Bridal Shop Set to Open New Location in San Jose

Trudy’s Brides and Special Occasions is preparing to open a new store in San Jose after nearly 50 years at The Pruneyard shopping center in Campbell. The bridal shop has leased a former Walgreens space measuring approximately 13,300 square feet at 1615 Meridian Ave. in Willow Glen. Recent activities have focused on renovating the site to welcome customers, with an anticipated opening date of September 5 or 6, 2024.

Owner Steven Blechman, who is the son of the late founders Roger and Trudy Blechman, expressed enthusiasm for the new location. “We are going to have full visibility for the first time for our store,” he noted. This move represents not only a geographical shift but also a considerable increase in space compared to the previous store, which occupied 10,000 square feet over two levels.

Strategic Move to Enhance Customer Experience

Real estate broker Geri Wong, who facilitated the leasing deal, highlighted that Trudy’s has a strong customer base that extends beyond the immediate area. “We’ve done some research, and Trudy’s draws from as far away as Monterey and Sacramento,” Wong stated. This regional appeal is attributed to the shop’s unique offerings, which provide a comprehensive, one-stop shopping experience for brides.

Although parking at the new site poses a challenge, Wong believes that the mix of other tenants in the retail center should help ease any potential issues. Jim Fletcher, a Bay Area commercial real estate broker, also praised Trudy’s as a “first-class” tenant that generates substantial sales volume.

Blechman is optimistic about the advantages of the new location. The increased space will allow Trudy’s to host various events, including fashion shows, exclusive previews, and showcases for weddings and proms. “We are going to really celebrate the next chapter of our business with this new location,” he said. The supportive relationship with the new landlord and the vibrant community in Willow Glen contribute to the excitement surrounding the move.

Looking Ahead: Community Engagement and Expansion

As Trudy’s transitions from its long-standing Campbell location, Blechman aims to maintain the shop’s strong customer draw across the Bay Area. The new store not only promises greater operational flexibility but also fosters a sense of community, which Blechman emphasized as integral to the brand’s identity.

With a commitment to enhancing customer experience and expanding their offerings, Trudy’s is poised to make a notable impact in the Willow Glen area. The upcoming opening is not just a new chapter for the business; it symbolizes a celebration of the legacy established by the Blechmans and the future they envision for Trudy’s Brides and Special Occasions.