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
Haley
Wedding Date: February 1st, 2024
Favorite Designer at Bateau: “Lis Simon, because of their simplicity and amazing structure. ”
Favorite Wedding Tradition: “I love when the groom sees the bride for the first time as she walks down the aisle or during their first look. It is so sweet how his face lights up when he looks at his future wife all glammed up.”
Personal Style: “Casual and simplistic!”
Haley can also be found here: Sweet Cheeks Esthetics
Darby
Wedding Date: June 26th, 2021
Favorite Designer at Bateau: “I am drawn to gowns that are on the simple side, so I love Theia Bridal!”
Favorite Wedding Tradition: “I love when the bride and groom have a special private moment together - reading vows privately, writing each other letters, or just taking in the day.”
Personal Style: “Simple and Elegant”
Darby can also be found here: Rosebudd Photography
