LAS VEGAS (February 2026) — The Wedding Capital of the World™ has named a California bride as the winner of the 2025 Vegas Wedding Dress of the Year contest. Clark County Clerk Lynn Marie Goya and the Vegas Wedding Chamber announced that Stephanie Bashall of Burbank, California, earned the top honor for her striking 1920s-inspired wedding look.
As a result of her win, Bashall’s gown and wedding story will go on public display at Harry Reid International Airport beginning in March.
A vintage vision in Downtown Las Vegas
Stephanie Bashall married Britt Chandler Johnson on October 26, 2025, at The Mob Museum in Downtown Las Vegas. The couple chose the historic venue for its connection to storytelling and old-world glamour. Therefore, Bashall selected a dress that reflected that same spirit.
The gown, originally designed by Reem Acra, carried strong 1920s inspiration. However, Bashall did not purchase it new. Instead, she discovered it at Glamour Closet, a second-hand bridal boutique in Beverly Hills. That decision gave the gown a second life and added a layer of sustainability to the celebration.
To complete the look, Bashall wore rhinestone-encrusted Betsey Johnson heels with signature blue soles. The sparkling shoes added unmistakable Las Vegas flair to her ensemble.
Together, the vintage-inspired gown and glittering footwear created a look judges described as timeless yet distinctly Vegas.
A love story years in the making
In her contest submission, Bashall shared the personal story behind the wedding.
“Fifteen years of triumphs, challenges and moments I would not trade for anything in the world,” she wrote. “Thank you for being my person, my rock and now my husband.”
The couple first met while working on the television series Boardwalk Empire. Years later, they chose The Mob Museum as the place to say “I do.” That full-circle moment strengthened their connection to both history and celebration.
“Here’s to October 26th, a day we will remember forever,” Bashall wrote.
How the contest works
To qualify for the Vegas Wedding Dress of the Year contest, brides must post a photo and a short story on Instagram. Entries must feature a wedding dress worn during a ceremony in Clark County during the 2025 calendar year.
Participants tag @vegasweddingcapital and @lvweddingchamber. In addition, they include the hashtags #2025VegasWeddingDress and #2025VegasBride.
Judges review each entry based on style, story and overall impact. Ultimately, Bashall’s entry stood out for its elegance, authenticity and connection to Las Vegas culture.
Officials celebrate the winning look
“The wedding dress is arguably the most indelible image associated with marriage,” said Lynn Marie Goya, Clark County Clerk. “Stephanie’s dress captures the elegance, style and romance Las Vegas brides embody.”
Goya also invited the public to visit the airport display once it opens.
“It provides a reminder that Las Vegas remains the world’s most iconic destination for saying ‘I do,’” she added.
Ashley Miller, vice president of marketing, communications and sales for The Mob Museum, echoed that sentiment.
“Las Vegas has always been a place where love, creativity and celebration intersect,” Miller said. “Stephanie’s story reflects the spirit of reinvention that defines this city.”
Las Vegas remains the wedding capital
Clark County issued more than 70,000 marriage licenses in 2025. That figure once again placed Las Vegas among the highest marriage rate destinations in the world.
For decades, couples have traveled to the city for quick elopements, themed ceremonies and grand resort celebrations. Because the marriage license process remains simple and efficient, the destination continues to attract brides and grooms from around the globe.
The Vegas Wedding Dress of the Year contest reinforces that reputation. Each year, the winning gown becomes a symbol of the creativity and individuality Las Vegas weddings represent.
Beginning in March, travelers passing through Harry Reid International Airport can view Bashall’s award-winning dress and heels in person.
Her look now joins the long tradition of unforgettable Las Vegas wedding moments.
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