The Angel Rivera collection is the essence of sophistication and glamour in its dramatic silhouettes, finest silks and spectacular beading. Angel Rivera designs for the bride who commands the spotlight.

To learn more we talked to Angel about his work, passion and what makes him the best of his kind. Here is what we learned! Don’t forget to check Angel Rivera’s work at angelrivera

1. When did you decided to become a designer and why did you find this domain interesting?

Every Saturday, as a young child, my mom took my sisters and I to the flower park in Ohio. We would watch the brides in their beautiful gowns taking their wedding photographs. I became obsessed with their gowns, the way they looked, and the joy in the air. So at the very young age of six, I knew I wanted to be a Bridal gown designer!

2. Why should a bride-to-be choose one of your designs?

A bride should choose an Angel Rivera gown because it is the essence of sophistication and glamour in its dramatic silhouettes, finest silks and spectacular beading. I design for the bride who commands the spotlight.

3. What advice would you offer a bride who’s just beginning her dress search?

First I recommend the bride should always go dress shopping with an open mind. A lot of times brides go in with a particular style on their mind but many times the dress she falls in love with is completely different than she had originally envisioned. My second tip would be to only go dress shopping with two maybe three people at most. Too many opinions can cause confusion. Last I would recommend to a bride to pick a gown you will look back on and still love it!

4. Do tell us a bit more about your inspiration sources.

My inspiration comes from my brides. This season, I really focused on what the brides were looking for as I traveled across the country during my trunk shows.

5. Have you got any piece you’ve created and that has a very special meaning for you? Can you describe it or can show us a picture?

I do not have a favorite gown-they all have a special spot for me that’s why i name them! Do you know how parents says they love all their children equally? I feel the same way about my bridal gowns!

6. What do you feel is the most essential design element that every wedding gown should include?

The most important design element of the perfect wedding gown is the fit. One thing every bride has in common is the desire to find a dress that fits like a glove. It hugs your curves in all the right places and hides your problem areas flawlessly.

7. And tell us what would you give her and, maybe, other brands can’t.

I give my bride sophisticated and glamour with a touch of drama!

8. Last but not least, do you have any advice for FashionBride readers?

Do an aisle test to make sure the gown looks good from every angle. Go ahead, sit, shimmy, and even twirl in the gown while trying it on—if it’s the right one, you should feel as if you never want to take it off.

9. What advice would you offer a bride who’s just beginning her dress search?

First I recommend the bride should always go dress shopping with an open mind. A lot of times brides go in with a particular style on their mind but many times the dress she falls in love with is completely different than she had originally envisioned. My second tip would be to only go dress shopping with two maybe three people at most. Too many opinions can cause confusion. Last I would recommend to a bride to pick a gown you will look back on and still love it!