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

Trudy’s Brides and Special Occasions is finalizing preparations for the opening of its new store in San Jose, marking a significant transition from its previous location in Campbell, where it operated for nearly 50 years. The bridal shop has leased a former Walgreens site, encompassing approximately 13,300 square feet, located at 1615 Meridian Ave. in Willow Glen. Renovations are currently underway to tailor the space for the upcoming store.

The new location is set to officially open its doors on September 5 or September 6, 2023, as confirmed by owner Steven Blechman. His parents, Roger and Trudy Blechman, established the business, and he runs it alongside his wife, Rebekah Blechman. Blechman expressed enthusiasm about the new site, stating, “We are going to have full visibility for the first time for our store.”

Strategic Move to a High-Demand Area

According to commercial real estate broker Geri Wong of Newmark, Trudy’s has established itself as a regional destination, attracting customers from as far as Monterey and Sacramento. Wong noted, “There are not a lot of places like Trudy’s that offer full-service, one-stop shopping for brides.” This strategic move to a more visible location is expected to enhance the shop’s appeal and increase foot traffic.

The new store will provide more space than the previous Campbell location, which measured 10,000 square feet across two levels. Blechman highlighted that the expanded area will offer greater operational flexibility, enabling the shop to host fashion shows, exclusive preview events, and in-store designer boutiques. “We are going to really celebrate the next chapter of our business with this new location,” he remarked.

Community and Tenant Dynamics

Despite the excitement surrounding the move, there are concerns about potential parking challenges at the new site. However, Wong remains optimistic, suggesting that the nature of other tenants in the retail center could mitigate any issues. Jim Fletcher, a Bay Area commercial real estate broker, praised Trudy’s as a “first-class” tenant that generates substantial business, indicating confidence in the store’s success in its new environment.

The transition from Campbell to Willow Glen represents a significant shift for the bridal shop, which has built a loyal customer base over the years. Blechman is optimistic about retaining that clientele while attracting new customers drawn by the benefits of the larger space and the supportive community atmosphere in Willow Glen.

With this new endeavor, Trudy’s aims not only to continue its legacy but also to grow and adapt to the evolving needs of its customers, reinforcing its position as a leading bridal retailer in the region.