Nestled in the heart of Mountain Brook, The White Room Birmingham is more than just a bridal boutique — it’s a legacy of craftsmanship, care, and connection. Owned by mother-daughter duo Carolyn and Cathy Kelley, The White Room has become a beloved destination for brides across Alabama who want a gown that feels as personal as their love story.
A Legacy Sewn with Love
Before The White Room ever opened its doors, Carolyn Kelley had already spent decades perfecting her craft. A seamstress for 65 years — with 35 of those in couture work — Carolyn built her name on quiet excellence. “When Carolyn touches a dress, nobody knows it’s been touched,” Cathy says. “She finishes them the same way the designer would.”
After moving from Memphis in 1995, Carolyn began offering custom alterations around Birmingham, quickly earning a loyal following through word of mouth. Seeing how much brides valued her expertise — and recognizing a need for more bridal options in the area — she decided to open her own boutique nearly 20 years ago.
A few years later, her daughter Cathy joined full-time, helping grow The White Room into the warm, welcoming space it’s known as today — a place where brides feel seen, cared for, and celebrated.
Where Brides Become Family
Stepping inside The White Room feels like stepping into someone’s home — one filled with laughter, hugs, and heartfelt conversations. Brides often arrive nervous, but within minutes, they’re relaxed and smiling. “Before they leave, they’re hugging us and saying thank you,” Cathy shares. “They feel like family.”
That feeling is deeply personal for Cathy. As a child, her schoolbooks would ask what she wanted to be when she grew up. Every year, she’d check the box that said mommy. Though that dream didn’t come true, she’s found a new way to nurture — through her brides. “I take these brides in and love on them like they’re my own,” she says. “I treat them the way I would treat my own daughter if I had one.”
Designers That Define The White Room
From timeless classics to modern silhouettes, The White Room’s curated collection reflects both artistry and heart. Longtime favorites like Anne Barge have been part of the boutique since day one — “the first phone call we made when we opened,” Cathy says — and remain a Birmingham favorite.
They’ve also introduced designers like Caroline Castigliano, bringing international elegance to Alabama brides for the first time. And this year marks the exciting return of Allison Webb, a designer Cathy describes as “young, hip, and wonderful.”
Each gown that makes it onto their racks is chosen with intention. Cathy attends market twice a year but waits until returning home to make final selections — printing photos, comparing styles, and asking what their brides are truly asking for. “It’s all about balance,” she says. “What do we need, what don’t we have, and what will make our brides feel incredible?”
The Bridal Experience
Appointments at The White Room are as thoughtful as the gowns themselves. Brides can book online and bring a small group of loved ones for a personalized fitting experience. Each appointment begins with a conversation — about the wedding, the vision, the vibe — before Cathy and her team pull gowns tailored to that story. Saturdays often come with a side of mimosas, making the experience even more celebratory.
Her biggest piece of advice for brides? Come prepared with inspiration. “I love when brides bring screenshots or Pinterest photos,” Cathy says. “It gives me a glimpse into their vision and helps me guide them toward what they’ll love.”
A Heart for Helping Every Woman Feel Beautiful
The White Room’s expertise extends beyond brides — they also offer dedicated appointments for mothers and grandmothers. These fittings are separate from bridal appointments, allowing Cathy and her team to give the same honesty and care to every woman who walks through the door. “We’re not going to say, ‘that looks amazing on you’ to every dress,” Cathy explains. “We want them to feel truly beautiful and comfortable.”
By paying attention to how a mother typically dresses, Cathy helps her find a look that feels authentic — not just for the wedding, but for herself.
Trends with a Timeless Touch
While bridal trends ebb and flow, The White Room keeps an eye on what works for Birmingham brides. Laces and mikados are current favorites, while styles like the basque waist — one of this year’s biggest trends — are beginning to catch on locally. Cathy’s advice? “You can always go for that modern look, but add touches of tradition — like a lace veil — to keep it timeless.”
A Love Story That Continues to Grow
After two decades in business, The White Room Birmingham continues to be guided by the same principles that inspired its beginning: craftsmanship, compassion, and connection. Every bride who walks through the doors becomes part of the Kelley family — a legacy sewn with love, one gown at a time.
