Since diving into the world of bridal styling I can truly say that I love everything about weddings!
Meeting so many new people, hearing about their unique and individual plans for the Big Day, learning about the small intricate details from the floral arranging to the music festival reception - it's all very exciting!
What I love the most is the whimsical nature, the romanticism and the magic surrounding the occasion. It surely is a day for a bride to feel like her childhood fairytale dreams can become a reality.
Even more interesting is how varied the format of the wedding day has become. From New York City getaway weddings for just the bride and groom to garden tea parties in Dublin's Phoenix Park, I've come across the ultimate amazing, fun and adventurous wedding ideas!
Yet one thing remains the same as the utmost important element for the bride, no matter how lavish or casual, big or small the wedding day is to be, the DRESS must be perfect!
Finding the dress is certainly no easy feat either! Goodness knows the range of choice is endless. Each dress more fantastic than the one before. So how does one choose?
Here is a little list of tips and tricks to help you choose the right dress for you:
1. Choose your team: When it comes to bridal appointments, the experience can be quite full on, sometimes intimidating, most times fun, and a full day of appointments will have you feeling like you've run the mini marathon! Dress shopping is a marathon in itself so be sure to have the right people with you. My advice, stick to three - you and two trusted others. Be they your mum, your aunt, your sister, your maid of honour - that is completely your choice! Once they know your style, are open and honest, and up for a few laughs along the way, that's a big accomplishment in itself!
2. Come Prepared: When attending you appointments and fittings, you need to be prepared for whatever is thrown at you (literally!) Be sure to wear the right undies. A good strapless bra, your best panties, shape wear if you feel you need it - and always go for nude. Not only will you feel good stepping into the array of gorgeous dresses, you will look amazing once you see them on! Seems simple right? Trust me when I say a little preparation goes a long way.
3. Be open to options: I always ask the bride-to-be if she has a particular style in mind. The answer is simply divided - half say yes and the other half no! It is hugely important for me to listen in order to gauge the brides personal style, not just what she wants or doesn't want in a dress. You want to look and feel amazing. You want to be comfortable all day long. You want to eat freely, dance like crazy, meet and greet all your wonderful guests on the day. You want all eyes on you. You want to feel demure, elegant yet subtly sexy. Am I right? The best advice I can give is to explore all your options. Even the styles furthest from your imagination can often times win you over, making you the goddess you instinctively know you are.
4. Enjoy it: Make the experience a memorable one, for all the right reasons. Have fun, laugh at lot, drink champagne, make fun of yourself in the mirror, giggle over seating arrangements and take it all in your stride. If you relax, embrace and enjoy, the whole wedding experience will be ultimately rewarding and brilliant!
Each and every one of us has our own style and taste when it comes to the dress. Add a splash of sparkle, embrace a pop of colour, dare to wear flowers in your hair or don a luxurious cape over your dress! Be brave, be bold, be beautiful.
Try something new and take a little risk. Be inventive, be creative and be true to you. Most importantly, embrace the magic!
