Buffalo's hidden jewel (Pt. II)

12 April 2013

There are thousands of secrets lurking behind the elegant walls of Hotel Lafayette. Residents and guests know a few of the best ones. Did you know that the hotel features some of the most unique businesses downtown?

When the hotel made its grand reopening in 2010, it became a host to a gourmet dessert shop, Butterwood Sweet and Savory; two restaurants, Mike A’s Steakhouse and the Pan-American Grille; a florist, Woyshner’s; and two boutiques, Room2 and Anatomy.

Tucked into a discrete corner, you’ll discover Anatomy. Its charming dresses hang in the window beckoning customers off the street to view its unique bridal gowns. Owner and designer Ali Eagen specializes in custom made brides’ and bridal party dresses. She originally was located on Elmwood Avenue from May 2009 to October 2010. When she heard the hotel was looking to add a boutique to its repertoire, she jumped at the opportunity.

“I loved the idea of being here [at the Lafayette]. It has that blend of old fashioned along with a modern vibe. I think the hotel fits well with what I’m trying to do with my pieces.” Eagan said.

Ironically, the boutique is located where the last of the hotel lobby’s original décor is on full display. It serves as a gentle metaphor for Eagan’s take on bridal wear: preserving the traditional while embracing the modern style.

Eagan’s custom pieces are geared toward brides who want elegance with a more “indie” feel to them. Every gown begins with choosing from one of her many pre-made samples. From there, the bride-to-be chooses the color, fabric and any adjustments she desires.

The gown is fitted to your size and figure and a few days of clicking from the sewing machine later, a well-dressed bride is born. Extra creative customers also have the option of booking an exclusive “inspiration appointment” with a designer to build their dream gown from scratch.

“We also do special occasions and sell accessories hand crafted by local artisans.” said Eagan. “We have a lot of jewelry here in our showroom, but if a bride wants a design for her veil, we can direct them to someone who can make it for her.”

In a area plagued by pessimism, all of the hotel’s businesses are thriving contradictions to downtown’s lack of development. It shows Buffalonians that downtown is more than cold, pretentious law offices or trendy nightclubs. It can have the same charm afforded to the Elmwood Strip, too—if you aren’t afraid to be unique.