About Us

Our Story

At Dover Grace, we believe shopping should feel like slipping into a dress that fits just right: joyful, personal, and a little bit fabulous. Our story began with a chance encounter between Elizabeth and Frances Gibson, who owned and operated Dover Grace for 14 years. What started as a conversation quickly turned into a dream come true, and before long, Dover Grace entered its next chapter as both a bridal haven and a lifestyle boutique.

Images by Brandy Hayes Angel

Meet Our Team

At Dover Grace, we’re more than just a boutique—we’re family. Our dedicated team brings passion, expertise, and a touch of fun to every appointment, ensuring your experience is as special as the dress you choose.

Frances V. Gibson – Proprietor

"The heart and soul of Dover Grace, Frances brings years of experience, creativity, and a love for all things elegant."

Who would play you in a movie? Julia Louis-Dreyfus
What’s one thing on your bucket list? Visit Russia
Favorite item in the store? The chandelier from my first store!

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Grace Callaway – Fashionista Associate

"With an eye for style and a love for all things fabulous, Grace makes dress shopping an unforgettable experience."

Who would play you in a movie? Ariana Grande
What’s one thing on your bucket list? To be a dancer
Favorite item in the store? All of the beautiful dresses!

Dover – Official Store Mascot

"The most dapper boutique pup in town—keeping an eye on all the fabulous finds!"

Who would play you in a movie? The Dos Equis Man!
What’s one thing on your bucket list? To go to the beach!
Favorite item in the store? My house under my mom’s sewing table!

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Charlie Moon – Style Consultant

"Charlie’s passion for fashion and attention to detail make every client feel their absolute best."

Who would play you in a movie? Reese Witherspoon
What’s one thing on your bucket list? Visit Portugal
Favorite item in the store? MK Decker Design Jewelry

Meet Elizabeth

Elizabeth brings endless creative energy to the boutique. She really does try on a different dress every day, always ready to learn something new about fit, fabric, and tailoring. She is studying the art of sewing with guidance from Frances, reading every book she can get her hands on, and watching videos on techniques. Trust us, she is sew, sew confident.

Elizabeth is also a mom of three young children and somehow manages to juggle family life, boutique life, and her love of tennis, all with red lipstick and a smile.

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Images by Brandy Hayes Angel

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Images by Brandy Hayes Angel

Meet DeeDee

DeeDee balances the business side of the boutique with her passion for styling displays that make our space look its best. With a lifelong career in marketing, she brings both strategy and creativity to Dover Grace.

She has been married for over 27 years, and after raising two sons and still managing three dogs, she has found immense joy in creating a store that feels like a girly, stylish escape for our community.

Images by Brandy Hayes Angel

Every detail of Dover Grace is built with love, right down to our fun 10-foot round dressing room, complete with 10-foot tall drapes that we sewed ourselves! It is spacious enough for moms to help their daughters slip into gowns and share those once-in-a-lifetime moments. Whether you are here for the perfect wedding gown, a mother-of-the-bride dress, a formal event, or a gift that feels just right, we want you to feel like family.

We continually curate new arrivals, ensuring there is always something fresh to discover. Supporting local business has been at the heart of our story, and we are deeply grateful for the way the Watkinsville and Athens communities have embraced Dover Grace. Shopping small is more than a transaction — it is what allows us to know your families, celebrate your milestones, and keep our town full of charm and connection. We welcome your suggestions on what you would love to see us carry next, because Dover Grace has always been about community first.


We are so proud to be growing Dover Grace right here in the heart of downtown Watkinsville, GA.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why Choose Dover Grace?

At Dover Grace, you are more than just a client, and we are more than just dresses. Every appointment is designed to feel personal, joyful, and stress-free, with gowns for every age, style, and body type plus expert alterations to ensure the perfect fit. Beyond bridal, our boutique offers a selection of jewelry, accessories, and thoughtful gifts to celebrate life’s everyday moments. And when you shop with us, you’re supporting a woman-owned small business in downtown Watkinsville that pours back into the community we love.

Appointments & Shopping

Do I need an appointment to shop at Dover Grace?

Walk-ins are always welcome during boutique hours for browsing gifts, jewelry, and everyday style pieces. For bridal gowns, mother-of-the-bride and groom dresses, or formal wear, we recommend scheduling an appointment to receive one-on-one attention with our team. Appointments enable us to deliver the personalized experience for which Dover Grace is known, from trying on dresses to discussing alterations and accessories.

Can I bring guests to my bridal appointment?

Yes! We encourage brides to bring two or three loved ones for a comfortable experience. To celebrate with a larger group, consider booking a private bridal appointment for a more upscale setting.

Alterations & Fittings

Do you offer in-house alterations?

Yes! Dover Grace provides expert in-house alterations for dresses purchased in our boutique, including bridal gowns, mother-of-the-bride and groom dresses, and formal wear. Alterations are available for an additional fee and ensure your dress fits beautifully for your special occasion. We also offer custom design touches to make your look truly unique. A final try-on in-store is always recommended, and our team will guide you every step of the way.

To schedule an alterations appointment, email us at wearedovergrace@gmail.com.

How should I best prepare for an alterations fitting?

Bring the exact undergarments and shoes you plan to wear on your wedding day or special event to ensure accurate measurements and proper hemming. If you’re planning to wear shapewear, please bring it with you as well. We also suggest bringing accessories like veils or jewelry to complete your whole look. Arrive with clean, dry skin (free from heavy makeup and self-tanner) to help protect your gown during the fitting process.

How far in advance should I schedule my bridal gown alterations?

We recommend scheduling bridal alterations 5 to 6 months before your wedding day. As a small boutique with one dedicated seamstress, appointment times book quickly, especially during peak wedding season. A final fitting is typically scheduled 1 to 2 weeks before your wedding to ensure everything fits perfectly. Please note that requests requiring a quick turnaround may incur a rush fee.

Bridal + Formal Wear

When should I start shopping for my wedding dress?

We recommend starting your bridal gown search 9–12 months before your wedding day. This allows enough time for ordering, shipping, and alterations. If your date is sooner, we do offer rush options and select off-the-rack gowns.

Do you carry mother-of-the-bride and mother-of-the-groom dresses?

Yes! Dover Grace offers a curated collection of MOB and MOG gowns in a variety of styles and colors. With expert alterations available, we help moms find a look that feels elegant, flattering, and perfect for the occasion.

What sizes do you carry in-store?

Our boutique carries a range of sizes, typically 0–22, with extended sizes available by special order. We are proud to work with designers who offer inclusive sizing so every client feels celebrated.

Do you offer bridal styling services for accessories?

Yes! Our team is happy to help you style your entire bridal look, including veils, jewelry, shoes, and other finishing touches. During your appointment, we can suggest pieces from our boutique collection to complement your gown and personal style.

Do you carry bridesmaid dresses?

Currently, Dover Grace does not carry bridesmaid dresses. Our focus is on bridal gowns, mother-of-the-bride and groom attire, as well as boutique fashion and gifts. We’re always happy to recommend trusted local shops for bridesmaid collections while helping you coordinate your bridal and family looks here.

Boutique + Lifestyle Shopping

Do you only carry dresses?

Not at all! While gowns are at the heart of Dover Grace, we also offer a range of complementary items, including jewelry, handbags, accessories, gifts, and permanent jewelry. Whether you’re shopping for a wedding, a special occasion, or just to refresh your personal style, our boutique has pieces that make every day feel a little more special.

Do you offer permanent jewelry?

Yes! Dover Grace offers custom-fit, permanent jewelry — seamless bracelets and anklets designed for everyday wear. Permanent jewelry makes a meaningful keepsake or gift and is a favorite at our pop-up events. We are available for private events, as well.

Do you offer gift cards?

Yes! Gift cards are available in any amount and can be used for dresses, accessories, or shopping at our boutique. They make a thoughtful gift for brides-to-be, moms, or anyone who loves a stylish surprise.

Can I book the boutique for private shopping events?

Yes! Dover Grace offers private shopping appointments for brides, mothers, or groups who would like an intimate experience with the boutique all to themselves. Private events are perfect for bridal parties, permanent jewelry pop-ups, or styling sessions with friends. Contact us via email at wearedovergrace@gmail.com for availability and details.

Customer Care + Services

Do you accept dresses on consignment?

Currently, Dover Grace does not accept dresses on consignment. Our boutique carefully curates each gown directly from trusted designers to ensure the highest quality and fit. We truly appreciate you thinking of us and encourage you to explore local resale or donation options to give dresses a second life.

What is your return or exchange policy?

Bridal and formal gown sales are final. Boutique items may be exchanged within 14 days if they are unworn and have their original tags attached. We encourage clients to try on and ask questions during appointments to ensure complete confidence in their purchase.

Do you offer rush orders?

Yes, depending on designer availability. Rush fees may apply. If you’re on a short timeline, our stylists can guide you to the best options for your wedding date.

Do you offer steaming or gown preservation?

We offer gown steaming for your event, but do not provide in-house preservation.