Last weekend, I attended the Bridal Walk hosted by the Union Street Wedding Ring, a consortium of shops that caters to brides and their entourages and sells or provides pretty much anything you would need for your big day. I strolled down the 6-block stretch of Union Street on a sunny Sunday afternoon and visited the 20-odd shops that were prepared and excited to talk to me about my every bridal whim and need.

After arriving to a VIP reception with mimosas, munchies, and maids of honor at The Matrix on Fillmore Street, I started on my trek. These were some of the highlights I found…

David Clay Jewelers: Friendly, helpful salespeople and some unusual pieces. For instance, they’re one of the only jewelers in the city that carries Alex Sepkus’ line.

An Alex Sepkus wedding band

They suggested I try on some rose gold bands to go with my white gold engagement ring. I never would have thought of doing that, and it looks amazing. Sold!

Haute Bride: They have a small selection of dresses, but where this shop really shines is their accessories. Owner Lindsie Jones makes much of the jewelry herself. Whether you are looking for a veil or a feathered headpiece, some elbow-length gloves or  some major bling to spruce up a simple wedding dress, this is the place to go. Most of their pieces can be customized, so if you see something you love but wish it were rhinestones instead of pearls, they can make it for you.

Union Street Papery: This paper person’s wildest dream (yes, I actually still write down all of my appointments and notes in an actual date book with an actual pen) has a great variety of styles of invites and a range of prices from reasonable to astronomical. They carry more stationary designs than any other paper store that I’ve ever been to! The Papery is also celebrating their 25th anniversary in the Bay Area.

Union Street Papery

And, in the end, supporting local businesses and working with their proprietors – your neighbors – feels great.

As for the Union Street Wedding Ring, the proceeds from the ticket sales ($20 regular//$45 VIP, which includes gift bag) go to support a local charity, the Thrive House for Youth. Check out www.unionstreetweddingring.com for their next event, which will be sometime this summer.