Jim Kimball is president of a business group in Turlock that wants to turn downtown into California’s biggest bridal destination. (Robert Durell / Los Angeles Times)
A boarded-up building in Turlock’s downtown, where more than 20% of the retail space is empty. (Robert Durell / Los Angeles Times)
A bridal gown graces the display window at Angel’s Bridal Boutique in downtown Turlock. About 50 wedding-related businesses disc jockeys, photographers, caterers and florists, in addition to jewelry stores and dress shops -- are scattered throughout the San Joaquin Valley city, and a business group wants to draw more of them downtown. (Robert Durell / Los Angeles Times)
Turlocks Main Street has been renovated with wide sidewalks, planters, old-fashioned lampposts all the trappings of a day-trip destination. (Robert Durell / Los Angeles Times)