Two of Salvatore and Maria Castronovo’s children were exceptionally talented musicians – Sam played the violin and Rose played and taught piano. So, it was only natural that the parents wanted Frances to follow in her sibling’s musical footsteps. But she had other ideas. She wanted to design fashions and open a dress shop. With $750 in seed money, the Castronovo Dress Shop opened in 1937 at 323 North Church Street.

Today, 81 years later and a few blocks away, Castronovo Bridal Shop is still in business, owned and operated by Mary Frances’ son Nino. Because of the ability of a single mother to run a retail business in a field dominated by men and the dedication and resiliency to keep that business thriving, the Castronovo Bridal Shop, a family-run operation for several decades, has been selected to receive the 2018 Special Recognition Award by the Greater Rockford Italian American Association at its annual Hall of Fame and Special Recognition Dinner at the Venetian Club, Saturday, October 13. In addition, the store will be recognized at the Columbus Day Mass on Sunday, October 14, at St. Anthony of Padua Church at 11:30 a.m.