Berlin Businesses Team Up For Bridal Stroll

BERLIN -- Participants in June’s 2nd Friday Art Stroll in Berlin might find themselves strolling down the aisle in the future if the event’s wedding theme has any effect.

More than 25 Berlin businesses will be taking part in the June 8 “Bridal Stroll,” which will feature a wedding basket giveaway valued at over $1,300 as well as the grand opening of “Bustle,” the town’s only bridal boutique.

All 25 shops involved will be donating something wedding themed to the prize basket, according to Kristin Basmajian, catering manager for the Atlantic Hotel and one of the people responsible for organizing the stroll.

“Every place offers something different,” she said.

Basmajian explained that each business contributed something representative of weddings and marriage, usually in the form of gift certificates but occasionally actual items.

“We have champagne and chocolates,” she said, adding that the basket will also contain jewelry and passes for overnight stays at area hotels as well.

Those interested in taking part in the bridal stroll can pick up a contest envelop and town map at any of the 25 associated businesses. Strollers can then make their way throughout Berlin stopping at each of the participating stores to collect a business card.

Once all cards have been collected and placed in the envelope, it should be taken to Bustle at 9 South Main Street before 8 p.m.

Basmajian explained that the event will serve as an introduction for Bustle while also highlighting more than two dozen established businesses in town. All shops involved will feature wedding themed floor or window displays.

Though the stroll is set to the tune of figurative wedding bells, Basmajian stressed that everyone, single, married, engaged or otherwise, should take part in the walk simply because it’s a fun way to spend a Friday and visit shops in Berlin.

Not to mention that anyone who participates is eligible for the grand prize.

“All may participate in the wedding basket giveaway,” said Basmajian. “You need not be a bride-to-be or a prospective groom.”

The bridal stroll is just the latest in a series of themed 2nd Friday Art Strolls. Organizers hope to make it an annual spring event.

People hoping to immerse themselves in wedding culture won’t have to wait an entire year, however.

“We’re going to have a wedding weekend Sept. 28 and 29,” said Basmajian.

She explained that the entire event, though still in the early stages, should be even bigger than this month’s stroll.