Annette Riccardi, Founder

Annette Riccardi began Fantasy Bridal, about 25 years ago, migrating from a ready-to-wear consignment store into a full-service, new gowns only bridal store. Prior to starting Fantasy Bridal, she spent many years working in the non-profit industry, including working as a bookkeeper for The Children’s Center and a computer programmer for United Way.

Tiring of the office and computer work, she combined her love of fashion, her sewing skills and her creativity by opening a consignment clothing store in 1983. What she found was that her love of bridal gowns well surpassed the other clothing lines, and she decided to change the store to carry only new bridal gowns, bridesmaids, and accessories to totally outfit the bride.

The bridal manufacturers 25 years ago, offered very few, fully modest bridal gowns. She saw a need in the modest market, for a cohesive modest-fill, because the t-shirt drop ins offered during that time frame were a blemish to the beautiful gowns with intricate laces.  As the sole proprietor, seamstress, consultant, etc., she designed beautiful custom modest fills that looked like the dress had never been altered. Fantasy Bridal has expanded over the years to the current location, a 5893 square foot bridal salon, with 14 dressing rooms.

To this day, Annette’s greatest love is to assist the bride in discovering her dream gown, and if needed, to help the bride customize the gown to fit her vision of her wedding day.

Stacy Van Dusen

Stacy Van Dusen began working in the family business, at the age of 16. During college and summer breaks, she spent her time working in the bridal store by pressing gowns, doing bookwork, handling inventory, or completing any other task as needed. In 1989, she completed her Bachelor’s degree at Westminster College in Accounting, and spent the next 10 years working in the banking industry;  the last 7 years for Morgan Stanley.

Tiring of the corporate world, Stacy began working full time with her mom in 2002 at Fantasy Bridal. Together Stacy and Annette have taken Annette’s original vision for the business and have expanded it.

The mix of Annette’s love of fashion and alterations along with Stacy’s business background has enabled Fantasy Bridal to grow into one of the largest, independently owned bridal stores in the Salt Lake Area.