Startup Directory

Ella & Oak

Ella & Oak is the go-to marketplace for plus-size brides.


Even though a wedding brought Samantha Brody, ’08BC together with her co-founder Christine Callahan, they never realized it would foreshadow their future starting a bridal venture together.
Fast forward, Sam and Chrissy now lead Ella & Oak, the go-to marketplace for plus-size brides. While 68% of women in the US are considered plus-size (14 and above,) these brides face a multitude of challenges when they begin their wedding dress search. Bridal boutiques rarely carry stock of bigger sample sizes, quality designs are hard to come by as the fashion industry has largely ignored this customer segment, and the experience is extremely frustrating.
Chrissy witnessed this firsthand watching a friend who was forced to abandon her wedding dress dreams. She settled for a cheap mass market option despite an above average budget. After being turned away or misunderstood at boutiques and disappointed by the choices available to her, she ended up feeling defeated and ashamed, not how a bride should feel during this exciting time. Chrissy just knew there had to be a better way and was inspired to start Ella & Oak. Sam teamed up with Chrissy after talking to countless brides, all of whom faced similar struggles finding the dress of their dreams.
Today, Ella & Oak is changing the game by offering quality gowns specifically in sizes 12-28, with a better shopping experience. Brides can choose from a selection of dresses that include exclusive patterns from expert designers and private label options created based on real life inspiration from plus size women across the country. Customers can also choose how they want to try-on. Ella & Oak will ship sample dresses so they can try-on in the comfort of their own home, or (deleted else) brides can schedule a private VIP appointment at a local pop-up.
No matter what a bride decides, Ella & Oak is committed to its mission, striving to make sure each and every bride feels beautiful and confident on her special day.
Visit Ella & Oak to learn more, connect with the founders, or check out the schedule of upcoming pop-up events.