ROBINSON, TX — Meeting just weeks prior to coronavirus shutdowns, 25 News checked back in with McLennan County staple Pat's Gowns to see how they're faring.
"It hasn't been bad. I mean, it was bad, but in 2008 people just called and canceled, but with the corona they just changed their dates," explained co-owner Ivy McCarn. "It's really been, everybody's been great."
McCarn said they had very few cancellations. Instead the majority of brides postponed their weddings until later in the year, or kept their dates and simply postponed the reception.
"We didn't skip a beat," exclaimed McCarn.
"Even prom dress season wasn't as impacted as they expected," McCarn continued. "Even with the prom kids, there was a few cancellations but quite a few said, "Daddy's gonna take me out to eat. We're gonna get dressed up. The restaurants are back. We're gonna go take pictures.""
Pat's Gowns also has been selected for a $10,000 grant from Texas Woman's University after having learned of grant opportunities on 25 News.
"We got it. We were just so blessed," said McCarn.
They intend to use the funds for inventory coming into their shop.
One unexpected positive amid the pandemic, the co-owner explains, is it's allowed her time to enjoy her favorite season for the first time in decades.
"In 30 years, it's the first time I've got to enjoy spring. I missed my customers, and I'm glad to have them back, but it was nice to enjoy spring and see my husband more," she said.
Looks like everything is looking up for this wedding gown staple in McLennan County.
