Meet the Team

GRACE CARLSON | Store Manager

As a Northern Virginia native growing up right outside Washington, D.C. Grace originally planned to pursue a political career. Amidst her studies, she quickly realized it was not the path for her. She started spending the weekends helping a family friend who owned a local bridal boutique and almost instantly fell in love with the world of bridal. Grace’s love for creative design has flourished into editorial and e- commerce styling, allowing her to travel to New York and California for countless photoshoots featured in multiple publications. Grace is now in year 9 of her bridal career and her attention to detail gives her a special set of eyes when it comes to ensuring the final details are exactly what the bride envisioned for her wedding day.

 

SHIRA BENSON | Stylist 

Shira's journey into fashion began in Badin, North Carolina, where her country roots inspired big city dreams. Her passion for fashion was ignited at the age of seven when her grandmother taught her to sew. This spark grew into a full flame during an internship at a local bridal boutique in Salisbury, NC, where she discovered her love for bridal fashion. She graduated from North Carolina A&T State University, blending her love for fashion and art through designing and painting on clothing. As the “customization queen,” Shira aims to bring each bride’s vision to life, enhancing their confidence and ensuring they feel beautiful on their special day. She combines her skills in sewing, wardrobe styling, and painting to add artistic flair to every project. In her free time, Shira enjoys painting, exploring new cuisines, traveling, and spending time with family.

 

JULISSA PAIZ | Alterations Coordinator 

Julissa’s journey in formal wear began in her hometown of Washington, D.C. With a lifelong passion for the arts—ranging from painting and playing instruments to sewing—she found her way into the bridal industry, where she worked for two years before joining the team at Carine’s. Julissa is currently pursuing a degree in Astronomy at the University of Maryland, a testament to her belief that creativity and curiosity go hand in hand. As our alterations coordinator, she is dedicated to helping brides feel seen, heard, and beautiful in their gowns. Julissa loves bringing each bride’s vision to life and considers it an honor to be part of such a special chapter in their journey.