Bridal ship takes up residence in former post office

by Laura Bednar

Something White bridal shop moved from its location on Brecksville Road to the former Independence Post Office building at 6916 Daisy Ave.

Owner Rebecca Somnitz bought the building at the end of December 2022, and after more than eight months of renovations, opened the doors in September.

“I needed more space and a different feel,” she said.

The business was in its previous location for 14 years, in the building that once housed the Independence General Store. Her store was in what would have been the owners’ living quarters. Somnitz maintained some features of the post office in her new spot, including the cement floors and loading dock.

Somnitz returned to her hometown of Independence after living and running a bridal shop in Chicago. A Chestnut resident, she now lives close enough to walk to work.

“I think you grow the business by living close by,” she said.

Dress styles are “simple, sophisticated, classic and elegant,” according to Somnitz. Materials tend to be more natural fabrics like silks and crepe. Dresses aren’t the only thing that takes up a portion of the new 2,100-square-foot space. Somnitz said one of her brides has already inquired about using the shop for a bridal shower. In the near future, Something White could host showers of 30 to 40 people.

The other side of the post office building – 1,700 square feet – is vacant and available for rent. Somnitz said she would like to have a business somewhat complimentary to Something White take up residence next door.

“Let’s get something super charming in there that residents will patronize,” she said. ∞

Photo: Something White is now located on Daisy Avenue and could potentially be booked for bridal showers in the near future. Photo by Laura Bednar.