Lisa – Toronto, Ontario

Lisa came to me looking for something long and slender, with a vintage 1920’s or 30’s feel. I made her gown from bias-cut silk charmeuse and complemented it by creating a spray of hand-sewn flowers for her hair.

Consider the Groom

Something that I think is critically important in determining what a bride is going to look best in is to know what her groom looks like and what the two of them look like together. Weddings have become so bride-centric that the groom is often overlooked, but this day is just as much about him as you. It is about the two of you becoming one, and you should choose garments that visually reinforce that idea.

When I design a gown for a bride, finding out about her fiance is one of the first things I do. How can I make something for this bride that will not only look beautiful on her but also be complementary to her husband and make him look his best?

Remember that the most important pictures you will look back on from you wedding are the ones of you and your husband together and you don’t want your dress (or your hair or makeup, for that matter) to draw unnecessary attention to itself, or overpower your husband. (Think about all the wedding photos from the 1980’s — how many brides regret the lacy beaded pouffy shiny satin sleeves?!)

Carola – St. Moritz, Switzerland

This is what the Victorian Gown, currently featured in Martha Stewart Weddings, looks like on a real bride!

Anne Marie – New Canaan, CT

This bride wanted the Princess Dress, but was getting married in December in New York, so I made it with long sleeves. I think I like it even better this way, with the Chinese ball button closure at the sleeve vent.

I Love This Shot of My Sister’s Wedding Gown

I’m obsessed with how the fabric looks in this photo. It’s a gorgeous Italian silk double-faced duchesse satin that I specifically chose for its luster, which perfectly accentuates all the gathering on the bodice.