Ana Hernandez Bridal Salon

I wasn't sure where to start when my daughter and I began our search for the ""perfect"" wedding gown! I began to look online and was very impressed by the many awards and outstanding reviews that I read about Ana Hernandez Bridal Salon. I called and was surprised to be speaking directly to Ana. She couldn't have been nicer and was able to meet with us on my first choice of days and time. Since it was our first venture out looking at gowns I assured my husband that we were just ""looking"" on Newbury Street and were a long way from buying! I never imagined that we would fall in love with the second gown that she tried on! Ana's salon was intimate and filled with beautiful gowns. The walls were covered with the many Best of Boston for Bridal Gown Design awards that Ana has deservedly won. My daughter selected several gowns to try on, some by Ana and some by other designers. When she put on the second gown, an original design by Ana, we couldn't believe our eyes! It was the most gorgeous gown we had ever seen and I knew we were not going home without buying it! Ana was incredible to work with. She gave us valuable advice on everything from shoes and jewelry to the bridal bouquet. In addition, Ana created an exquisite veil that complimented the style and proportion of the gown perfectly! When our wedding guests saw my daughter in her gown standing at the top of the stairs with her father there was an audible gasp at the breathtaking sight! She looked absolutely amazing in her gown and it fit her to perfection. Everyone at the wedding (including many men) came up to ask where she had bought the gown and raved about the design and details that made this gown so special and unique. We have watched every episode of ""Say Yes to the Dress"" and have yet to see one that compares to the gorgeous gown that Ana created. It is elegant, young, sexy and classic and I know my daughter will never forget how she felt in it on her wedding day! The pictures of her and the look on her new husband's face say it all! If you dream of a wearing a custom made dress by an award winning designer and don't want to look like another Vera Wang cookie cutter dress, you should make an appointment to see Ana. She will create a style for you that is all yours at a surprisingly reasonable price. My daughter and I are so grateful to Ana for designing the gown of her dreams and made it an easy choice to say, "" YES"" to this dress! more

ana was rude and unfriendly. we explained this was our first day looking. I was with my daughter. All her gowns looked shabby. maybe she thought we were just looking with no intentions to buy. we went down the street to vera wang, very classy. all their sample gowns still looked beautiful. who wants to try on a gown that looks like a rag.go buy vera like we did Cons: this place was highly recommended, what a disappointment, more

I had VERY LITTLE information about wedding gowns when I started shopping for my dress. I made an appointment with all of the usual suspects on Newbury Street and when I walked into Ana Hernandez's studio, I expected to find yet another inexperienced sales person who would tell me I looked good in everything. Wasn't I in for a pleasant surprise? When I realized that Ana was actually the designer, I knew I was in the right place. Her studio was intimate, with one of a kind gowns; not a factory with multiple women trying on the same dresses . Ana works with one client at a time for browsing, purchasing, altering, and fitting. She builds relationships with her clients and is honest. She will find a design that works with your body, and in my case, alter an existing design to fit your vision. She makes recommendations for hair, jewelry, shoe, and veil styles to fit your look as well. Ana Hernandez's talent is exquisite. Her look is classic yet contemporary, flirty yet structured. My experience with her was that of purchasing a couture gown. Her designs are astonishing, yet Ana is very down to earth, kind, generous, and focused. Her name is on the label of your dress and she takes great pride in her art. She will make sure that you walk out of her studio with a one of kind gown that fits perfectly. Planning a wedding can be very stressful. Working with Ana was a high point of my preparation process. I had complete trust in her and did not worry for one second about my dress being perfect. Due to an illness in my family, I moved the date of my wedding up by 8 months. Ana was there every step of the way making sure my dress was ready (and perfect) in three weeks time. There is no better way to go than Ana Hernandez; exquisite and affordable gowns from a brilliant designer. more

My daughter bought her wedding gown from Yolandas last March. Yolandas was quickly sold in August and we were told that our dress would be at Ana Hernandez. To say that I was upset was an understatement. We bought an expensive dress and felt that we didn't just ""buy"" a dress from Yolandas we bought the whole bridal experience only to be sent to an unknown bridal designer in Boston. I am delighted to say that I could not have been happier with Ana Hernandez. My daughter tried on her dress, we talked alterations and she listened and gave us her experienced input. Her prices for a fair amount of alterations was reasonable and I could tell that my daughter felt very comfortable with her. As much as we love her wedding dress, I only wished that I knew of Ana Hernandez before we went to Yolandas. We definitely would have bought her dress from her. Looking forward to our next fitting. Pros: She listens Cons: Little confusing to find more

I accompanied a friend to this store and we were very disappointed with our experience. The woman in the store (who identified herself as the designer) was incredibly rude and addressed us in an extremely condescending tone. Her snobbish/icy attitude was surprising to all of us as we had heard this store was wonderful. I will be shopping for my own wedding dress soon and definitely won’t be visiting this place again. Cons: Rude more

I flew from Minnesota to Boston to help my daughter select a bridal gown for her wedding in March of 2009, six months before her wedding in Newport, RI. I had made appointments for eight bridal salon visits over the course of four days based primarily on what I could find on the internet (including Citysearch reviews). I was hoping she'd find ""the one"" on the first day, so we could just have fun the remainder of the weekend. My daughter is quite petite (size 0), so going into salons and trying on sample gowns that were size 12 to 16 was kind of ridiculous. At the majority of the salons, they ordered the gown from a particular ""designer"" and then refitted it to you (at a substantial cost over and above the cost of the gown). When we trudged into the eighth salon (Ana's) I was afraid we would just have to ""settle"" for one of the gowns she had tried on over the course of the four days. Then my daughter tried on one of Ana's gowns, and I said joyously ""That's the ONE!"" My daughter and her bridesmaids enthusiastically agreed. Ana never took any measurements but over the course of six fittings over six months, created the gown around my daughter from the inner layer to the final dress. There were no uncomfortable undergarments as she had had to put on in other bridal salons. The price for the quality was very reasonable compared with the other seven bridal salons we went to. Ana created the gown utilizing the basics of the sample gown but customizing it to my daughter's desires. The material was sumptuous! Nobody (especially the groom) could take their eyes off her the night of the wedding. Thanks ever so much Ana! Pros: Simply Exquisite! more

Ana designs all of her own dresses so they are each one of a kind. When I went in to try on dresses she was able to look at my body and hand select a dress from her collection for me and WOW...I had been to several other places on Newbury Street and nothing fit me like this dress. She has dresses she's made for a formal wedding or a beach wedding and everything in between. The materials she uses on her dresses are top notch and she will alter the dress herself to fit you perfectly. Not only are the dresses beautiful, but the service was amazing! She and her team are so pleasant to work with and it was so refreshing to be the only bride in her studio, as she only sees one person at a time. \r I received so many compliments on my wedding day on the dress! In fact the word most used to describe the dress was STUNNING! I would send, and have sent several brides already, to Ana for their dress! Pros: Gorgeous dresses, one of kind service more

My wedding dress was spectacular. Everyone at the wedding asked about it, and were impressed with the fine detail, and well-crafted design of the entire dress. My sister especially appreciate the simple, yet elegant bustle that Ana created in the back. She said she has seen many bustles, but this one was the best. I have an incredible amount of gorgeous pictures from our day, and I felt like an elegant woman thanks to Ana's work. Pros: Friendly, personal, and gorgeous Cons: None come to mind more

My daughter is thinking of having a dress made by Ana. I realize she has a super reputation. Does anyone know what she charges? Have you found her to be more reasonable that going to a regular salon? more

Ana is a super talented wedding gown designer. She has an eye for fashion and works only with exquisite materials that make her dresses even more luxurious. I worked with Ana for over 6 months while preparing for my wedding. Besides being sweet and lovable, she was very thorough with her designs and alterations and my dress was ""the belle of the ball."" I felt like a Princess. Everyone at the wedding (including all of my engaged friends) were dying to know where I got such a fabulous gown and one that fit me to a T. I couldn't have asked for a more beautiful gown or a more wonderful experience. Thanks Ana. Pros: Expertise, affordability, great designer more

The highlight of my wedding planning was working with Ana. Ana was gregarious, meticulous, and attentive to my personal requests. Over my 6+ fittings, I got to know Ana while she methodically adjusted my dress to the perfect size and vision I had for my wedding gown. Ana’s expertise in bridal designs helped to guide me in choosing details that made my dress flattering and unique. Ana has a great sense of humor and inter-personal skills, and she took a true interest in my wedding. Ana was a pleasure to work with and I looked forward to every appointment. Pros: Great service, custom made dress, affordable more

From the moment you meet Ana you know she HAS to make your wedding dress. I had a designer lined up to make my dress but 3 months after she was booked she called to say she was closing her shop. Of course i freaked but she recommended Ana. I got appointment with her the very next day and after meeting with her and seeing her other dresses i knew that everything does happen for a reason. I described the setting of the wedding ( Grand Cayman) and my ideas, wanted something light that flowed. All ideas Ana loved and she was able to create something WAY better than i could ever have imagined. My dress was absolutely gorgeous! I wish I could attach a picture!\r For all you ladies out there thinking you want a off the dressrack, pre ordered dress, think again! Why have something other girls around the world will be wearing when you can have an original by Miss Ana! Pros: great location, professional, knew exactly what i wanted Cons: None! more

I never thought a wedding dress could stop my heart and leave me feeling short of breath. I fell inlove with Ana's gown that was on display at Papyrus a few months ago. After getting engaged I quickly called and made an appointment. Ana was very polite on the phone and booked my appointment for the following day. I brought my mom to Ana's studio and was thrilled to have Ana personally assist us. The atmosphere was much more welcoming than I had expected to find on Newbury Street. I had been nervous about trying the dress on in the open before we entered the shop, but once inside I felt totally comfortable. The temperature was perfect and when Ana asked my style I quickly explained the dress I had seen in the window. Turns out she had also displayed the dress downstairs (there is a window across from the door to Starbucks). I took off my clothes, Ana helped me into the dress and whamo! I was inlove. My mom and I teared up and I couldn't believe I found the dress. Her other dresses were gorgeous also but I decided to go with the only wedding gown I've ever tried on. The fabric is amazing and she gave me advice on how to wear my hair and which flowers to use in the bouquet. My mom and I left and couldn't stop talking about how amazing Ana is. Who knew dress shopping could be so incredible and not the least bit stressfull? I love you Ana! more

I live in NYC but had my wedding in the Boston area where I'm from. I looked all over and am SO happy I ended up with Ana Hernandez. I had a very specific idea of what I wanted and Ana basically designed it for me using the silhouette of one of her gowns that I loved. I felt it was so unique, beautiful, and perfect for me. I committed to around 5-7 fittings and while it seemed like a hassle making the trip from NYC to Boston so often, it was worth every minute. I really enjoyed all of my fittings and got to share the experience with my mother and sister; even my grandmother came to one! Ana was very flexible and such a pleasure to work with. She gave great advice and never let me go astray in the process, and I'm glad I trusted her expert opinions. The dress is of a truly beautiful and exceptional quality with delicate alencon lace and amazing workmanship. It even went perfectly with my mother's 30 year old veil which I borrowed. I received so many complements both during and after my wedding. Many people told me they thought my dress was the most beautiful and unique they had ever seen. I will treasure my wedding photos forever. Pros: Unique experience, dress is made for you, no hidden costs or alterations, Ana is a pleasure! Cons: You'll need to go to more fittings than for an ordered dress, but I loved this process...the dress is custom made! more

When dress hunting I went to numerous stores - high end, low end and in between. Ana Hernandez was the best value hands down. Not only are her dresses beautiful and high quality, but the service was fantastic. How often do you get to meet your dress designer and have them personally help you find your dream wedding gown?? It's no wonder she's been voted the Best of Boston for years now.\r \r Appointments are individual - there is nobody else in the boutique with you watching you parade around in your dresses, but best of all she has a knack for knowing what looks best on people and listening to what you want for your special day.\r \r I still encourage everyone to try lots of different stores and dresses, however after you get sticker shock at Priscilla of Boston and poor quality service at Yolandas....go to Ana. Pros: Service, Value, Quality, Selection Cons: Not ""cheap"", but still a good value more

I live in New York City. I saw a dress of Ana's in a wedding magazine, for an after party we are having at our wedding. I called the salon to ask if they are still selling the dress. They said yes. I explained that my wedding was in less than three weeks, and would it be possible to purchase the dress, and have it shipped in time for fittings and my wedding. To my surprise and great happiness, this was all accomplished PERFECTLY!!!! I received my dress yesterday. Ana's staff made my dress exactly to my measurements. I do not need one single stitch of alterations. The service I was provided was outstanding. Linda, who works with Ana, called me serveral times to confirm my measurements and to advise what she (having seen the dress, as I had only seen it in a photo) recommended for the fit. Luckly I listened to her. I felt like Linda, a woman I never met) was my best friend in Boston. She enthusiastically helped me and worked so hard to accomidate me in everyway. I have never had a better experience!!! I highly recommend this designer and this company!!! \r Additionally to getting my dress one week before my wedding and in perfect conditiion and fit, they were kind and thoughtful enough to enclude extra fabric which was so generous in case I should need it. I only wish I could by all my clothing this way!!!! Truly one of the best experiences and most memoriable experiences of my wedding. Thank you to the entire staff of Ana Hernandez's ,you deserve many happy and successful years!!!! Pros: perfect service, product, and quality more

On July 9 at 12pm, you were thrilled with your dress, it fit you perfect, and it was clean. You thanked me and took your gown with you. You never mentioned any disappointment. \r \r On July 11 at 5:14, you called to order a veil over the phone and said you had changed your mind. You ordered over the phone, the same as my sample with the lace edge and to add beading. The only sample I had like that was a finger tip length. So I made you the veil and spoke to you on July 18 at 11:20am to go over the order and confirm your shipping address. It was then shipped on July 18 by FedEx 2 day delivery which you signed for on July 20th. \r \r Friday August 3, 2 weeks later after receiving the veil at 9:36pm you called me on my cellphone telling me I made you the wrong veil. I told you I will call you at 10am the following day when I have the paper work in front of me. You demanded I do it right then and there. I explained to you that I would take care of it first thing in the morning and you would receive a new veil. You began screaming on the phone telling me that you would destroy my reputation on the internet that I better do something about it right now AND YOU ALSO CALLED YOURSELF A FRANTIC BRIDE. I replied, ""You are crazy lady, I am in bed, calm down and I will take care of it first thing in the morning.""\r \r On Saturday August 4 at 10:11 I called you on your cellphone, you did not pick up. I tried again at 11:19 and left you a second message. You finally returned my call at 1:59 and apologized for being so frantic and that there was plenty of time since the wedding was not until August 25, 2007. \r \r On August 7, at 6pm, you came in for a veil fitting to make sure the length and the lace edging was what you wanted and then returned on August 9 at 6pm to pick up the veil, 16 DAYS PRIOR TO YOUR WEDDING DATE, NOT 2 like you had stated. \r \r I wish you would have been more honest with the review and myself. \r \r -Ana Hernandez of Ana Hernandez Bridal Salon Pros: EXCELLENT SERVICE more

I am very disappointed with your review since you don't explain thoroughly the circumstances and your dates are inaccurate. The first time you came to the salon was on February 9th of 2007, I offered alterations and cleaning included with the purchase of a sample sale. \r \r Saturday March 10 at 2pm, you came in to show the dress to a friend who was in town. You demanded a fitting when you called that morning. I explained to you that it was too soon since your wedding was not until August 25, 2007, however, you were more than welcomed to come in and show your friend the gown and that anyone at the salon could help you and all your fittings would be with me. \r \r On Friday March 16 at 1pm, you came in to be fitted for your hem and the next fitting would be for the bodice. \r \r On April 16 at 3:30, I pinned the alteration for the bodice and also talked to you about veils, the different lengths and finishes. After trying them on, YOU SAID YOU DID NOT WANT TO WEAR A VEIL. Therefore, a veil order was never placed for you. \r \r On Saturday June 16 at 1pm, you came in for a final fitting, the dress fit perfect and now was ready for cleaning. I had explained to you that cleaning takes two weeks and it would be run into the 4th of July weekend and the dry cleaners would not be opened, so it was going to take a few extra days. It would be ready for pick up from the cleaners on July 6.\r \r You made an appointment for July 9 at 12pm, however, on July 2nd at 2:19pm, you spoke to Christine, demanding to pick up your dress sooner. She explained to you that the cleaners were closed on the 4th of July and finally you agreed to pick up on the 9th as it was scheduled. I called you at 2:22 to explain to you once again about the 4th of July week that it would take a little longer. I mentioned this to you back on April 16. This I left on a message and asked you to return my call, but YOU NEVER RETURNED MY CALL. Pros: EXCELLENT SERVICE more

After reading all these positive reviews online, I was disappointed to find how disappointing the service was. First and foremost, Ana missed two of our scheduled fittings. For the first fitting, she did not even show up, and her assistant had absolutely no idea what to do. She also tried to postpone the final fitting an by entire week, because of the fourth of July holiday. Finally, she made my veil the wrong length. When I tried to ask her to fix it in time for my wedding (my wedding was three days later), she blamed me and called me a ""crazy lady."" With the stress of planning a wedding and the immense logistical burden of coordinating 200+ people, name calling by the seamstress is the last thing you want on your plate. I would not recommend Ana Hernandez to anyone. Pros: reasonably priced dresses Cons: disappointing service more

I have gone to every single salon in and around Boston as well as some in NYC. In all of my many visits to these other salons I never once met, or even saw the designer. With Ana she does every appointment and creates all of the dresses herself. She is simply amazing, I don't know how she does it!! Her gowns truly are works of art, the fit is completely custom so you can't imagine how beautiful they look, and how comfortable they are as well. Ana's gown are easily half the price of a Vera Wang and in my opinion, they are of better quality. \r \r The service is unbelievable, truly! She is way too funny and so adorable, you just want to squeeze her. If you haven't been there, what on earth are you waiting for? It is the best salon, and an incredible value for what you get. These gowns are truly the best anywhere. I just love it here. Pros: These dresses are spectacular!! Cons: I honestly can't think of one. more