At Sandra's, More than wedding gowns

Sandra's Wedding Shop has served the community of Wasco for the last 16 years. As the only store in town specializing in gowns for all occasions, her business has thrived.

Owner Flor Casillas runs the shop by herself. Over the years, she has developed an expertise that allows her to deliver top-notch customer service.

She sells wedding, bridesmaids and quinceañera gowns.

"When people buy a dress, I offer free alterations and custom tailoring. That's not the case for other shops. In this way, I am saving my clients money."

Casillas is known for her quinceañera dresses and offers a discount when you buy a whole set, including the crown, bouquet and champagne glasses.

She also offers tuxedo rentals and outfits for baptisms and first communions.

Casillas is energetic and lively and brings passion to her work. She relies solely on word of mouth for advertising.

She works hard to satisfy her customers with her boutique-like setting.

"I strive for them to be happy with what I sell so they can keep coming back and spreading their shopping experience with others," Casillas said. "I think that is why I have clients from McFarland, Shafter and Bakersfield."

Casillas worked her way up from working as a cashier before opening her shop.

"I saw the opportunity to take over the business, so I grabbed it."

In Wasco, she has lived here for the last 30 years.

"I married here and raised all of my four children in Wasco. I love this town."

She said she feels supported by the community.

"I have repeat customers who are always here to support me. With their loyalty, I have been successful throughout the years. I wouldn't be here without them," Casillas said.

She said that businesses come and go, though she is dedicated and clients come first for her.

"I like to get close, to know them, to know exactly what they need and want. I give thanks to God that my clients leave feeling good," Casillas said.

"I like helping people with their special celebrations, which brings me much satisfaction."

Casillas said that sometimes the people that come to her are stressed, and she feels a big responsibility to assist them.

"I have so much experience I can guide them to ensure their events are successful and that they look their best."

She sells her gowns reasonably and strives to make them accessible to all working with their budgets.

"Many of my clients are agricultural workers and low-income. It's important for me to offer good prices, better than you would find in a bigger city like Bakersfield."

Casillas likes to give back and sponsors Wasco High School football and cheerleading teams.

"I feel good knowing I am in a position to do so."

She hopes to be around for many more years to come and will continue to fill a void in the community.

Sandra's Wedding Shop, 651 D St., is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, call 661-758-8250.