meet The Team
Tara Gondek | Owner
As a lifelong Alaskan, I knew that someday I would open and operate a small business in the place I called home. I met my husband, Jacob while attending college at the University of Alaska, Anchorage. We had a fabulous wedding in 2012 and from that experience and years of working weddings, I can now pass on my knowledge to future brides.
I never imagined I would find my passion working in the bridal industry, but I can honestly tell you - I am so happy that I did! Bateau Bridal Boutique was opened in 2013 after discovering that Alaska brides should be able to find their perfect gown without leaving the state. I want every bride to have the experience that I wanted to have – a memorable time shopping, and access to quality and responsibly made gowns at reasonable prices.
Wedding Date: September 8th, 2012
Favorite Designer at Bateau: “I love Lis Simon! I've had my eyes on her designs since I opened the boutique and in 2022 we felt it was the right time to welcome them into Bateau!
Favorite Wedding Tradition: “I can’t help but love the walk down the aisle, specifically when the couple locks eyes. You can see the raw emotion, it is the best!”
Personal Style: “As a mom of three, practical!”
Management Team
Holly | Boutique Manager
Wedding Date: August 11th, 2018
Favorite Designer at Bateau: “I love boho styles and would have to say that Evie Young Bridal is my top!”
Favorite Wedding Tradition: “I think there is something so special about the ‘something new, something used, something borrowed, and something blue’ tradition! I love to see how creative people can be.”
Personal Style: “Minimal, Casual, and Classic”
Holly can also be found here: Thimble Berry Bakery
Loucinda | Merchandising Manager
Wedding Date: September 12th, 1987
Favorite Designer at Bateau: “Rue De Seine has arrived at the boutique and I cannot get enough of their unique and quality styles!”
Favorite Wedding Tradition: “As a mom of three, I have always loved the Father/Daughter and Mother/Son dances!”
Personal Style: “Classic and Chic”
Our stylists
Rachel
Wedding Date: January 14th, 2006
Favorite Designer at Bateau: “I love the whimsical feel of the WTOO gowns!”
Favorite Wedding Tradition: “There is nothing like a beautiful send-off! Whether it is a classic car, sparklers, or a horse-drawn carriage - you cannot go wrong!”
Personal Style: “Classic and Romantic”
Rachel can also be found here: Rachel Tweggs Photography
Kristel
Wedding Date: June 11th, 2022
Favorite Designer at Bateau: “I love Essense of Australia and even wore one of their stunning gowns on my own wedding day! ”
Favorite Wedding Tradition: “My favorite wedding tradition would have to be the first look. Every couple can add their own personal twist to it and I love that they get a few intimate moments together before the craziness of wedding day starts.”
Personal Style: “Warm and Cozy!”
