Needleman’s Bridal and Formal celebrated 100 years of business in Vermont with a special event held late October at its South Burlington location.

Currently owned and operated by Mark and Heather Needleman, the family-run business first opened its doors in 1925 in Newport, Vermont, and has been helping generations of Vermonters look and feel their best for life’s most important occasions ever since.

Believed to be one of the oldest bridal and formalwear shops in the country continuously operated by the same family, Needleman’s continues to honor its legacy of personal service and timeless style, with stores in both Newport and South Burlington.

“Since 1925 we’ve been helping couples say ‘I do,’” said owner Mark Needleman. “Whether it’s finding the gown of their dreams or the perfect suit, we want everyone who walks through our doors to feel comfortable, confident, and cared for.”

Reflecting on the family legacy, and his and Heather’s years of serving brides and the community, Needleman offered a simple “life lesson”:

“Go all in! We want every customer to look their best, whether it is a wedding, prom, or any special event,” says Mark Needleman. “The photos last a lifetime, and we take that personally.”

Founded in Newport, Vermont, the business began when Louis Needleman opened American Clothing in 1921. His brother Ed joined in 1923 and, with his wife Martha, opened a women’s boutique in 1925 that sold out of dresses on its first day.

Bridalwear was central from the beginning. Ed and Martha’s shop offered dresses, shoes, and bridal gowns with a mission to carry “everything for everybody.” Their son Marvin joined in 1963 and, with his wife Carol, expanded the bridal business further by outfitting Eastern Star chapters across Vermont and shaping the store’s growing reputation for elegance and service.

The next generation carried the legacy forward. Marvin and Carol’s son Mark and his wife Heather expanded Needleman’s into the Burlington area, where it continues to thrive today.

The Burlington store draws customers from across Vermont, New York, New Hampshire, and Canada, all seeking Needleman’s expert guidance and personalized fittings. In addition to the Burlington location, the Northeast Kingdom is proudly served through an innovative traveling tuxedo service.

Needleman’s reputation has always been built on outstanding customer service and deep community ties. From dyeing shoes by hand the night before a wedding to chasing down packages during a UPS strike, the Needleman family has always gone the extra mile

What sets Needleman’s apart from online retailers is the one-on-one experience. Every fitting and selection is handled directly with the customer, ensuring they feel confident and cared for.

After 100 years, the name Needleman’s still stands for service, style, and family. And thanks to the passion of each generation, it continues to flourish.

Needleman’s has not only endured, it has triumphed. Through the rise of big box stores, the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the digital transformation brought on by the internet, Needleman’s Bridal & Formal has continued to succeed by staying true to its core values: exceptional service, personalized care, and a curated selection that speaks to every generation.

For additional details, visit https://www.needlemansbridal.com/.