For the past 45 years, 106 N. Church St. in downtown Murfreesboro has been home to Ruby’s Dress Shop. At 81 years of age, proprietress Jimmie Cowan decided retirement was long overdue, and she closed her beloved shop.

Now Karen Whitaker will carry on the dress shop tradition by featuring new and nearly new bridal and prom gowns at her Encore Bridal and Formal Wear at the same location.

Especially in current economic times when budgets are tight, it’s difficult to justify spending hundreds or thousands of dollars on a gown that will only be worn once. While prices will vary, Whitaker’s shop is full of prom and special evening gowns that range from $45 – 100 and bridal gowns that are priced $200 – 400.

The shop carries formal wear for women, children and babies, which includes ensembles for the mother-of-the-bride, Easter dresses and christening gowns. Encore will also continue to feature several of the clothing lines that were the most popular at Ruby’s.

In an attempt to make shopping and planning more convenient for the client, Encore custom makes candles for wedding ceremonies as well as jewelry, purses and accessories to complete any of the gorgeous gowns.

The store hours are Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Whitaker will buy dresses for consignment on Saturdays, preferably by appointment, and will carry the gown for nine months. When the dress sells, the commission will be split 50/50 between the client and the store.

For more information on Encore Bridal and Formal Wear, visit myspace.com/encorebridal or call (615) 893-7211.