I am occasionally asked what is behind the name of our boutique, Chosen. Believe me! This was not random and not done haphazardly. Many prayers (literally!) went into picking what I felt was the perfect name for Chosen, a Bridal Boutique. The answer is actually three-fold.
The most obvious part of this name trifecta I believe to be the more obvious. I truly believe there is someone out there that God has picked to be your other half. Someone "chosen" for YOU! Some would say it is your soulmate. Now, in regard to "soulmates", I do not believe that your soulmate has to be your spouse. The definition of a soulmate is persons compatible with each other in disposition, point of view or sensitivity; Someone with whom you have a special or spiritual connection. With this definition at the forefront of your thoughts, I believe your soulmate can be your bestie, a parent, a cousin, and yes, a spouse.
The second story behind the name is my personal story with Chosen Bridal. The idea of this boutique was put on my heart when I was in college at SLU and stayed there. It was always a dream, always in my thoughts. It has morphed somewhat to what it has become, specializing in curvy and plus-size brides, but the dream was placed there by God in my heart all the same. I believe God has "chosen" me to do what I do and tasked me with making everyone that comes through the doors feel beautiful, loved and confident, regardless of shape or size. It is my goal, through my relationship with Christ, to try to be a light to those I encounter in what can be a dark world. When brides see us it should be easy, fun, and relaxing. This place is my sanctuary and I want it to feel that way to all who enter. I have had people make comments how this place feels "special" and "magical". There is no doubt these feelings come from the fact that God resides here. Chosen was dedicated to Him, I just work here! He is CEO, CFO and COO! ***INTERESTING SIDE STORY*** God is great! He truly knows the end from the beginning. When I was a child, I was not a very girly girl. I liked playing sports, climbing trees, building club houses and roller skating! I was never one to play with Barbies and the like. However, I do not find it a coincidence that what I DID do was make wedding dresses for my stuffed animals!!! : )
The last part of this three-part story is specific to wedding dress shopping. I believe there is a wedding gown out there "chosen" for each bride specific to her style and tastes. She does not have to settle because of her size (insert eye roll here). She does not have to feel anxious about nothing fitting or not finding anything. There is a dress, chosen just for her, that she will look as stunning as she has imagined herself to be, as she walks down the aisle toward her future!
Let us close with a Bible verse that ties this together. As my brides walk down the aisle on their special day, I pray their fiancées have this on their hearts when they see them in the dress CHOSEN just for them!!
It is from Song of Songs 4:9-10 NLT
You have captured my heart,
my treasure, my bride.
You hold it hostage with one
glance of your eyes,
with a single jewel of your necklace.
Your love delights me, my treasure, my bride.
Your love is better than wine,
your perfume more fragrant than spices.