TheFashionBridesInterviews
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Fashionbride Interview with Kimi Weart from Printable Press
Art is made to be admired and that’s one of the many reasons why we should surround us with beautiful designs and pieces. Wedding preparations are a great way to include art and its multiple forms in your everyday life. Today I’m gonna recommend graphic design and the team that know all about making the best wedding prints ever: Kimi Weart and Paul Galloway from Printable Press.I’ve had a small talk with Kimi and found out more about her work and her passion. Read all about it right now! (ps. don’t you just love her wedding gown? note to FashionBride – must make a post only ’bout Kimi’s gown 😉 ).
1. When did you decide to become a designer and why did you find this domain interesting?
I entered the design world way back in 1997, when I got a job as an assistant at a children’s book publishing company. And don’t tell my old boss, but I knew nothing about design at the time, I just loved children’s books.
2. Talk us through the first years of you work. Maybe you could tell us what did change in time?
Design at first seemed like it was only about learning computer programs, but my boss had been an art director for over 30 years (long before computers were introduced into publishing) and taught me about the long and wonderful tradition of design. Eventually I decided I didn’t want a typical 9 to 5 job, and left to become a freelancer. I have continued to design children’s books, but two years ago I got married and suddenly the idea of designing for one of the biggest celebrations in life became very attractive. Just six months later I opened A Printable Press, doing print-ready wedding stationery, so people could have the option of gorgeous stationery at any price.
Are your designs different from the very beginning?
I began A Printable Press sort of as an experiment, and I think my early stationery designs are pretty rough. Over the past year and a half I have refined my sensibility so that now they are much more original—the early ones feel very generic to me (I knew very little about the field).
3. Why should a bride-to-be choose one of your designs?
They should only choose one of our designs if it resonates in their heart! It isn’t our low price-point that attracts people the most—it is actually the uniqueness of the designs. Your stationery should be an expression of yourself and your idea of love, not of wedding trends.
4. Do tell us a bit more about your inspiration sources.
I am in love with old engravings, their attention to detail and the fact that they were originally made to bring artwork to people who couldn’t afford paintings. I also collect vintage food labels and tins, and have filled our home with branches and feathers and leaves. I’m a little obsessed with the woods. But I am probably most inspired by stories—if I read a Victorian novel, I’m inspired to make an invitation that Jane Austen may have used for her wedding.
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?
Probably my favorite piece is one called “Starry Night”, that shows falling stars. It is from a 19th century woodcut of a spectacular meteor shower, and the artwork felt so magical to me that I had to use it. I created a contemporary feel with an off-center frame and strong colors, and to me epitomizes that starry-eyed feeling you have when you get married. I wish I had designed this for our own wedding!
6. From your point of view, how should a perfect wedding should be like?A perfect wedding should be one where you feel perfectly yourself—it should not cater to anyone else’s idea of a wedding (except be sure to have comfy seating for Grandma, that’s just polite). It is your own story, your own fairytale. Don’t worry about tradition, don’t worry about what a bride should look like, concentrate only on feeling like YOU.
7. And tell us what would you offer and, maybe, other brands can’t.
There are two things we offer—a variety of truly unique designs, and a way to have professionally designed stationery at a fraction of the cost. Because we let you choose how you want to print your cards, whether at home or with a professional shop, your stationery can be made to suit your budget. But these are not your typical budget-looking cards, they have beautiful details and each one is customized so that your wording looks perfect.
8. Last but not least, do you have any advice for FashionBride readers?
My best advice is to remember that the most important thing about a wedding is not how it looks, but instead that every detail feels true to your deepest self. You are two individuals coming together and celebrating the start of a new adventure, an adventure that will be utterly unique to you.
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Fashionbride Interview with Roxanne Wickware from Roxycakes
“Cakes have always been at the forefront of joyous events. Today, I work with clients to create original cakes that capture their unique style and add to the joy of their special occasions”, says Roxanne Wickware from Roxycakes and I must admit that’s the first thing that crosses my mind when I see a wonderful cake – the love and passion of the maker!And that’s exactly the reason why I love Roxy’s cakes and her approach on the modern wedding. Here are a couple of questions I’ve sent her and her lovely answers. Enjoy and don’t forget that this article must be read only after eating a delicious piece of cake (it’s a must!).
1. When did you decide to become a cake designer and why did you find this domain interesting?
I’ve always had talent in visual arts but never knew how to translate my skills into a full-time job, so I settled for another career. One day on a break, I walked into a book store and flipped through a book of wedding cakes. I had a light bulb moment. That very day, I booked a week off work and attended a workshop called Introduction to Cake Design. A week later, I resigned from my job and signed up for a full-time internship in cake design. I enjoyed what I did before, but everything felt forced and unnatural. Suddenly, everything came naturally and felt completely right. That’s how I knew I was headed in the right direction.
2. Talk us trough the first years of you work. Maybe you could tell us what did change in time?
Before I opened my doors for business, I spent a lot of time honing my skills and fine-tuning my recipes. I worked with local shops, offering free samples to their clients in exchange for feedback. I also found my own style and built a portfolio around it, which I hoped would set me apart from competitors. Clients used to come with specific ideas in mind and often, with photos of cakes they wanted me to replicate. Now, they ask for ideas and hope that together, we’ll come up with the perfect design.
3. Why should a bride-to-be choose one of your designs?I think my clients choose to work with me because they know they’re not just notes on a clipboard. I do my best to understand their vision, and the best ideas emerge when everyone’s on the same page.
4. Do tell us a bit more about your inspiration sources.
My clients are definitely my greatest source of inspiration. I also draw inspiration from textures and colours combination in landscapes and architecture.
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’m always looking for ways to incorporate the couples’ personalities into their cake, but when one of my clients approached me with the idea of making their wedding cake resemble their favourite books, I thought it may be too much personality. We got to know each other well over the months leading up to their wedding and by the time I delivered this creation, I couldn’t imagine any other cake for their wedding, it was just perfect. This one means a lot to me because it really breaks boundaries and shows that the possibilities are endless!
6. From your point of view, how should a perfect wedding be like?
In my opinion, the perfect weddings are the ones when you walk into the room and you instantly get a feel for what this couple values, what they’re about and where they plan on going together. To me, it’s not in the budget but in the details. An invitation hand-drawn by a talented friend can feel as rich as the thickest and finest letterpress.
7. And tell us what would you offer and, maybe, other brands can’t.I think couples who are looking for something unique are drawn to my business because they see the cakes in my portfolio and feel that I’ll be able to realize their vision. Other than that, a lot of laughs and wild imagination!
8. Last but not least, do you have any advice for FashionBride readers?
When you’re ready to select a wedding cake, the first step should be to browse cakes online and in bookstores. Gather photos of cakes that really catch your eye, as these will give your cake designer insight into your personal style. Examine the photos and determine what they all have in common. It may be flowers or even their simplicity. From there, begin browsing the online portfolios of cake designers in your area. If you’re drawn to floral cakes, narrow down the designers who make the best sugar flowers. If it’s simplicity, then find the ones with the most immaculate execution, and so forth. Set up consultations and follow your intuition; select the one you feel most at ease with, as you’ll be in contact with them over the next few months. Finally, have fun with it and let your imagination guide you!
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Fashionbride Interview: Old Soul, New Heart by Shea McGee
“Tamara is Shea’s mother. She taught Shea that accessories never make you feel fat. She also taught her that well-placed ruffles, chains, sparkles and bows put you on the fast track to feeling pretty.Shea listened.
So together they have scoured estate sales and shops across the globe, gleaning inspiration from decades past and present, to form Old Soul, New Heart – a collection of meticulously hand-crafted accessories that breathe new life into vintage finds and unique pieces.”
FashionBride also listened. A story about love, passion and… ruffles. Enjoy!
1. When did you decide to become a designer and why did you find this domain interesting?
Tamara studied fashion merchandising and worked with boutiques for many years. Both of us have always had an interest in fashion. We have always found accessories to be the perfect finishing touch to make a woman feel feminine and pretty. Designing accessories was a natural fit for us.2. Talk us through the first years of you work. Maybe you could tell us what did change in time? Are your designs different from the very beginning?
Designing jewelry and hair accessories started merely as a hobby for
the both of us and grew into a business after receiving much interest. When we first started, we focused mainly on creating pieces to dress up everyday wear. However, because have a weakness for sparkles, we had many requests to design wedding pieces. Our wedding line is our newest addition to our collection. We have stayed true to our original aesthetic – a modern take on vintage glamour.3. Why should a bride-to-be choose one of your designs?
Our pieces are handmade and unique – many have a sense of history to them as we incorporate vintage materials. We understand that brides are looking for the best materials and a piece that will stand out without being a distraction on their big day. We believe we have mastered the art of subtle glamour with our bridal collection.4. Do tell us a bit more about your inspiration sources.
We love looking through old family photos of my great grandmother – she loved costume jewelry and fancy headpieces. We also find inspiration looking through vintage wedding books and magazines. Last but not least, we love reading blogs to see what brides now are wearing.
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?
The Lily fascinator is made from vintage organza petals found in an old factory and pieced together with wispy ostrich feathers and a beautiful rhinestone brooch. We love the detail of this piece and mix of old and new.6. From your point of view, how should a perfect bride look like?
The perfect bride should be the very best version of herself. Your wedding day is a day to shine, but still be yourself. We love when brides look effortlessly glamorous. We think this is best achieved with a little more makeup than everyday – a soft, subtle smoky eye, a little blush and the perfect lip-gloss. When a bride feels beautiful and confident, that really shows through.7. And tell us what would you give her and, maybe, other brands can’t.
Because all of our products are handmade and made-to-order we can offer customization for the bride that other mass-produced brands cannot.
8. Last but not least, do you have any advice for FashionBride readers?
Stay true to your personal aesthetic on your wedding day. Too often we see brides trying so hard to be what everyone else wants them to be on their wedding day. We say just be yourself and wear a beautiful gown that accentuates your best assets and accent it with a headpiece or veil that complements you without being a distraction. -
FashionBride Interview with Maria Lucia Hohan
They say “wear your heart on your sleeve”, I’d definitely do so if the sleeve would be one of a gorgeous gown made by Maria Lucia Hohan! Today I’m pleased to present you my latest interview with a beautiful designer (she’s a stunning girl and I don’t mean only because of her work) and one of the most talented fashion artists in my country.Yup, I’m going to spoil you with some stunning gowns and an inside story told by the Romanian designer that charmed Alix with her creations. Wanna know more? Read the interview and don’t forget to check her website – your wedding gown must be there!
1. When did you decided to become a designer and why did you find this domain interesting?
I actually started by studying Interior&Product design in Paris at Creapole-ESDI school, then I switched to Textile&fashion at LISAA – L’Institut des Arts Appliques. I think somehow my destiny was to work in fashion, as I didn’t plan it from the beginning but all the steps led me towards this field.
I love to create, I love the creative process, I love discovering fabrics and textures and I love to play with colours, shades, nuances. One day ill probably switch back to interior design, as it’s a domain so dear to me, as it includes also fabrics and textures, but used in a different space and volume.
Basically it’s not only about clothes and fashion, I love to create anything that requires selecting colours and materials and developing a concept, an idea. The clothes are just the final product that I chose at this moment in order to express my ideas and feelings.
2. Talk us trough the first years of you work. Maybe you could tell us what did change in time? Are your designs different from the very beginning?In september 2003, at my very beginning, I was just a child. I was 23 years old and very ambitious and eager to have my own business and probably I benefited from beginner’s luck, as I started to have customers quite rapidly. My designs werent developed, my financial sources were scarce and limited so that influenced a lot the way the clothes looked like 7 years ago.
I was just discovering new sewing and cutting techniques and I was learning along my production team how the clothes are really made. Basically every day I learn something about the fabrics, about the fitting on real people, about what the girls really want to wear so I can create in a more commercial way etc.
I understand only now why every single designer will always say that his last collection is definitely the best, as we evolve and progress with each season that passes.
3. Why should a bride-to-be choose one of your designs?
I do design thinking about “love”, as the ultimate source of inspiration. When a man and a woman decide to join destinies forever, they want to celebrate this event in style – but the dress its after all, only an accessory of the bride, the LOVE between the partners is the subject of the wedding itself.
Therefore, I create dresses for a light-hearted, ultra-romantic, girlie and playful bride, that probably will celebrate her wedding by the seaside or in a beautiful garden, surrounded by flowers. She will wear crystal-embedded flats, not high heels and she will wear flowers in her hair. MLH bride dream to love and to be loved and she will also fall in love with the dress, as a symbol of her happy union with her partner.
4. Do tell us a bit more about your inspiration sources for your collection.I do get most of my inspiration recently from the fashion&design blogs, I save images that I like and I pin them on my wall. A few months later the ideas will transform into a detail or a very piece of clothing. I also like make-up colours and packaging, dresses worn by movie characters, fashion editorials etc I gather everything into big panels and then I filter the information and I extract the colours from there and the textures I want to use.
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 would say that at this moment, it’s the wedding dress of Alix – the cherryblossomgirl. This dress made me realise that I want to create bridal gowns for many years from now to come and opened my eyes towards a whole new creative universe.
6. From your point of view, how should a perfect bride look like?
A perfect bride is the one with no doubts about her marriage, that loves with full heart and wears a large smile on her face.
7. And tell us what would you give her and, maybe, other brands can’t.
I design romantic, playful dresses with an innocent touch. I don’t like to use optic white, I like ivory – antique – off whites, vanilla light beige, creamy butter tones. And lots of lace details and bows. The bow will remain most probably my signature, even if it’s in leather, rhinestone or sheer mousseline.
I create wedding gowns for girls that are happy to be in love and to celebrate their feelings. Therefore, the girls will always want to play a little bit with their look and try not to take it so seriously – they will add bows, hearts, soft fabrics and glazed chiffon to their favourite dress and not try to overdress or look like fancy ladies.
8. Last but not least, do you have any advice for FashionBride readers?
Try to wear your dress with low heel shoes, in duchesse satin with a delicate rhinestone or satin bow as detail. Think about your comfort and remember that the happy smile on the bride’s face is the ultimate accessory for the look 🙂
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FashionBride Interview with Emily&Jo
What’s the difference between a good wedding invitation and an Emily&Jo wedding invitation? Good design and typesetting is where we start, but it’s the combination of printing techniques, paper stock and the design that makes the difference.That’s why you should all consider having your custom-made invitation with Emily&Jo. FashionBride had a quick chat with these extremely creative designers and found out more about their work. Read all about it after the jump (lovely invitations as you can see 🙂 ).
1. When did you decided to become a designer and why did you find this domain interesting?
The business started when Emily, newly engaged and full of anticipation failed to find any wedding stationery that met with her design expectations. As a senior creative in a top London agency Emily felt that there was no option but to create her own stationery suite and the concept of Emily&Jo was born.
2. Talk us trough the first years of you work. Maybe you could tell us what did change in time? Are your designs different from the very beginning?
Yes we do pride ourselves on being different, that is the essence of our company and ethically why we started. From the very beginning we recognised the emotive value of our product and we continue to work really hard to absolutely realise our clients expectations.
While Emily&Jo combine beautiful patterns with classic, timeless design and typography, we are continually creating new designs for our bespoke clients. This runs hand in hand with the expansion of our on line portfolio. We also offer a free of charge service to our clients whereby the colours of the designs can be manipulated in order to fit in with specific themes
3. Why should a bride-to-be choose one of your designs?
Quality Quality Quality! We produce a beautifully executed product that is timeless as well as being completely on trend. Our stationery suites really serves to set the tone for our clients’ wedding day – wetting the appetite of expectation
4. Do tell us a bit more about your inspiration sources.
As well as our classic designs, as our portfolio indicates we love anything that is new and visually exciting, there is so much talent out there! That is why we are launching our range of “designer” stationery to offer an additional level of creativity to our clients that utilizes the new talent that is out there.
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?It’s hard to pin point a single one, we have been lucky enough to work with so many gorgeous clients It’s always a great experience to work with someone that has a clear vision, that isn’t afraid of really going for it with bold colour and design, that make our day to day worthwhile and fun. Designing and producing a finished piece that creates an amazing visual impact and “wow” factor is a very satisfying occupation.
6. From your point of view, how should a perfect wedding should be like?
Smiling faces everywhere!
7. And tell us what would you offer and, maybe, other brands can’t.
Emily&Jo offers a fresh and dynamic on trend portfolio that fulfills a niche in the wedding stationery market that many modern day brides are craving for. Working with myself and Emily is a fun process, we are just as excited as our clients about producing a beautiful end product.
8. Last but not least, do you have any advice for FashionBride readers?
Enjoy your special day, and don’t get overwhelmed by the volume of industry choice that is available. If you have an initial concept, colour or theme that you love, don’t deviate, stick with it and all will fall into place. remember it is your day!
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FashionBride Interview with Yvette Craig
Yvette Craig Photography is based in Kent and covers weddings throughout Kent, London, Essex, Surrey, Sussex, Hampshire as well as National and International. To find out more about her work and her love for photography I’ve asked her a couple of questions.Read the answers and don’t forget to check her website.
1. When did you decided to become a photographer and why did you find this domain interesting?
I had a box brownie given to me when I was 6 years old and developed a love affair with images, it was however a move to the USA and then Canada that I really cemented my passion for photography and I enrolled on to a photography course and I was completely hooked. In 2002 we moved back to the UK and I initially took up a job in business development which was what I had done prior to the move to Canada, I hated every minute of it even though I was incredibly successful.
I then enrolled on a B&W photography course at my local college, I then was offered a job at Business Link Kent and as part of the training I had to go on various courses one of which was a start-up program and was told that in order to get the best from the course I had to pretend to be an entrepreneur and come up with a business idea!!
So I did and I formed Yvette Craig Photography in 2005 and for the first time ever realised that I really could develop a business that I was also passionate about. In 2007 I left employment to pursue my own business full-time and I have never looked back.
I have decided to move away from the more conventional forms of marketing in favour of online blogs as today’s modern bride is now more Internet savvy and as such they are now using blogs to find suppliers.
2. Talk us trough the first years of you work. Maybe you could tell us what did change in time?
Are your projects different from the very beginning? In the beginning my style was completely reportage with very few posed or group photographs, however as my clients changed so did my work. Today my style is more timeless and classical or fine art, I want people to have wedding photographs that they aren’t embarassed by in 10 or 15 years time.
I love B&W or even a vintage sepia tone and will often change the images in post production to be in these tones, I especially like to see the ‘guys’ photographs changed to these tones. There have been quite a few highlights in the last five years of business, I have been lucky enough to photograph some fabulous weddings and meet some really lovely people, I have been featured in National magazines and have been booked by couples in LA for a wedding in the UK and booked by couples who liked my work enough to want to fly me to their weddings overseas and my most recent achievement was winning the award for excellence in Press, PR & Events for the MPA SE region.
One of the biggest highlights was being asked to photograph a private party which the Stereophonic’s were playing at and then getting an email a few weeks later from his girlfriend to say how much she loved the photographs and could she order some for Kelly for Valentines Day!! A few weeks later I got an email to sya Kelly loved the photographs. I am looking forward to the next five years and hope that my business will continue to florish.3. Why should a bride-to-be choose your services?
If a bride and groom are looking for a photographer who offers fantastic customer service and committed to quality and excellence and wants a beautiful album that they will still love and cherish in 10-15-25 years time then they should choose Yvette Craig Photography. We offer fantastic customer service, value for money and have a team of five professional female photographers.
4. Do tell us a bit more about what a bride should do or say to help you – let’s say maybe give you some more details about the lighting on the venue or about the style she will choose for her wedding attire.
We always ask a bride & groom to tell us as much as possible about their day and what it means to them, we also encourage them to tell us anything that is happening on the day. If a couple have anywhere in particular that they would like to be photographed or if they have any special requests we also would ask that they tell us this so that we do not miss it on the day.
5. Have you got any wedding you’ve photographed and that has a very special meaning for you? Can you describe it or can show us a picture?
Every wedding that I photograph has a special meaning, however I think if I had to choose one or two that have stood out then they would be Leia and Nick wedding from 25 July this year and my Canadian wedding from 2008.
Leia and Nick I met earlier this year at a wedding fair and I instantly knew that I wanted to photograph their wedding they were so obviously in love and getting married meant everything to them, they were absolutely fantastic to me and my other photographer on the day and they gave us plenty of time to get those all important photographs of the two of them.
My Canadian wedding in 2008 was in Stratford Ontario where we used to live, it was such a huge honor to be asked to go out to Canada to photograph a wedding especially when they could have picked any number of good photographers locally!! I have photographed overseas before and totally love it and will be photographing a couple in Brisbane Australia in 2011.
6. From your point of view, how should a perfect wedding be like?
I think that every wedding is perfect because it is what the couple want as their day, however if you would like how from a photography point of view I feel it should be then I would say that when a couple books the photographer that they really do give as much information as possible, and allow enough time for their photographs of just the two of them, and think also about their finished album because it will be the only lasting memory that they will have of their special day.7. And tell us what would you offer a future bride and, maybe, other photo teams can’t.
I believe that we offer the best customer service and attention to detail, also because I am not a one man band like many other photographers I can offer a total back up should I or any of my photographers be taken ill.
8. Last but not least, do you have any advice for FashionBride readers?
I would advise that couples do not base their wedding photographer on price alone, there are many non professionals and part time photographers who will offer cheaper packages, but they should remember that you get what you pay for and this is certainly true with photography.
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FashionBride Interview with Tania Borton from Magpie Vintage
Magpie Vintage was formed by the union of the creative talents of Lisa Harris and Tania Borton. Contemporary
style combined with a love of Victorian opulence and the timeless quality of antique and vintage materials are reworked with silver to form eclectic one-off wearable designs.Tania was kind enough to answer a couple of our questions and she shared with us a couple of secrets that will help us become real fashionbrides! Read it, savour it and go check out their website after!
1. When did you decided to become a designer and why did you find this domain interesting?
If your naturally talented and enjoy being creative, being a designer and creating stunning high quality work is truly rewarding. Having the recognition for beautiful creations is a bonus. Working with brides for that special moment is just heavenly.
2. Talk us trough the first years of you work. Maybe you could tell us what did change in time? Are your designs different from the very beginning?
We started making vintage fashion jewellery in colours and fewer pieces in white, We became aware that many people where buying our ivory and white Jewellery for their wedding at non bridal shows.
We developed this side and found that the brides loved our designs and started telling there friends. Before long we had a reputation in the bridal market.
Brides wanted head dresses to match there jewels, which snowballed the Bridal market into wider designs. Now we work with couture houses and have exclusive collections within the Bridal industry.
We started a bespoke service where a bride could bring something of sentimental value, (that belonged to a loved one) and have it incorporated into their design. Working with the brides and having there input gave them more control over what they wanted.
3. Why should a bride-to-be choose one of your designs?
Personal taste is individual. We have many pieces that are statement pieces in there own right. these compliment simple dresses so give high impact with out being over the top. equally we have simple pearl necklace with hints of sparkle. A simple Alice band with vintage treasures
4. Do tell us a bit more about your inspiration sources.
Hollywood Glamour from the fifties. Miriam Haskell a famous designer of the twenties.
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?
All of our pieces are unique and each piece is handmade by ourselves and lots of time and energy goes into the pieces. With the feel of vintage jewels, you get a certain warmth, which reflects in our work. gives you a feel good factor.
6. From your point of view, how should a perfect bride look like?A perfect bride should look and feel like themselves, just bringing out the princess out in them. It allows brides to make choices about there dreams, which we turn into reality.
7. And tell us what would you give her and, maybe, other brands can’t.
We offer a service where every piece of jewellery is a one off and unique in its design and originality. People are individuals and as such should be allowed to express them selves.
8. Last but not least, do you have any advice for FashionBride readers?
Follow your heart.
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FashionBride Interview with Luci DiBella
In 1996 designer Luci DiBella unveiled her self-titled label, a collection of classic, elegant and glamorous Bridal gowns. Luci DiBella is about the sophisticated and stylish woman. Inspired by the innovative 20’s, the sleek elegance of the 30’s and the stately glamour of the 40’s. Today we sat down with her and found out a bit more about her gowns, her inspiration sources and the reasons behind her amazing creations. Read all about it and don’t forget to visit her website.
1. When did you decided to become a designer and why did you find this domain interesting?
I grew up in a workroom environment. My mother was a high-end Dress Maker in Italy, so to some degree I was influenced by her passion. However, I pursued other interests before succumbing to what seemed obvious in my early 30’s. I chose bridal, because it is more creative and allows you to experiment with design and high-end fabrics.2.Talk us trough the first years of you work. Maybe you could tell us what did change in time? Are your designs different from the very beginning?
I began my career in bridal with a vision of doing sleek, elegant gowns and have maintained this vision.
The welcome changes I have seen are the 17th century look-alike gowns have disappeared. The tragic too much jewellery, too much veil, too long of a train also finally disappeared.3.Why should a bride-to-be choose one of your gowns?
It is a particular bride that choses my designs, my clientel consists of sophisticated professional girl who admires quality, design and one to one service.
4.How long does it take to design a single wedding dress?
The amount of time to design one single gown can vary, the usual process for me is: sketch, mocking up the design on the stand, working out pattern, do a prototype and refine the design
5.Do tell us a bit more about your inspiration sources for your collection.
I am inspired by eras like the 30’s and also by fabrics, and consider the shape of a woman whenever I put the pencil to paper. I travel a lot and get inspired by trends and art.
6.Do you also work with brides or you just try to give them the best of your designs in your collections?
I can design on the spot, but brides prefer to try gowns as they may not be visual. I always recommend to my brides to work with shapes which I have already mastered and work beautifully
7.Have you got any gown you’ve created and that has a very special meaning for you? Can you describe it or can show us a picture?
Not so much created a gown that has special meaning to me, but I apply some of the techniques that I witness my mother used when making high-end evening and bridal gowns. So her talent and passion has been translated in the making of my garments.
8.From your point of view, how should a perfect bride look like?A bride should look elegant, sophisticated and romantic.
9.And tell us what would you give her and, maybe, other brands can’t.
I cannot speak for other brands, but only what I offer, So as mentioned before, I offer elegance, quality and one to one informative service
10.Can you give us an insight on your new Collection? What where your inspiration sources, what did you opt for as materials, shapes etc.
My latest collection is statement look with cutting edge drama, drapes, rouches, lace,textures fabrics and flattering silhouettes.
11.Do you like a more traditional approach or do you try to create a different image of the traditional bride?
Not really, I don t particularly follow a traditional approach to bridal as I feel it’s limiting and old-fashioned. A Wedding day is supposed to be glamorous, romantic, and very feminine.
12.Last but not least, do you have advice for FashionBride readers?
My advise is choose a gown that is amazing on your shape, that compliments your personality, and is appropriate for the reception you have chosen. Allow yourself to venture a little out of your comfort zone.
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FashionBride Interview with Chris Barber
You may have a one day wedding but your photos will last you forever, that’s why you must find the perfect team to take care of your lifetime worthy memories. We talked with Chris Barber from Chris Barber Media and found out more on the art of photography.You’ll love to work with Chris and his wife Dani their work is modern and the sessions (and images) are fun and they’ll can make you look AWESOME!
Don’t forget to check their website!
1. When did you decided to become a photographer and why did you find this domain interesting?
Wedding photography got into us. We’re both still kinda young so this is something we’ve been doing all our “working” life so far. We love weddings because we see that there’s room to push the boundaries of what people think wedding photography “should” look like and what wedding photography “could” be like. All our couples book us for our off-beat, quirky and fun style. To us, wedding photography is mainly about having fun, feeling relaxed and being yourselves, we make our couples feel as though we’re just “hanging out” whilst we snap away.
2. Talk us trough the first years of you work. Maybe you could tell us what did change in time? Are your projects different from the very beginning?
We’re 21 and 22, so we’re still relatively young and “new” to the industry. But we’ve been shooting professionally for the last 2-3 years and our mind-set has never changed. We aim to constantly push ourselves to produce new ideas, fresh work and eye catching images, not just for our couples, but (kind of greedily) for ourselves. We love and take pride in what we do so producing the same work, week in, week out would not cheating our couples out of fresh, modern photography, but it’d also be incredibly boring for us. So we like to try something fresh and a little different at every wedding.
3. Why should a bride-to-be choose your services?
Usually brides come to us with a huge sigh of relief, often with something along the lines of “we nearly had to settle for our Mum + Dads posed, rigid, same old/same old wedding photographer”. All our couples appreciate good photography, they love our quirky/off beat style and want to avoid stiff, rigid, posed photographs at all costs.
Another reason is because we’re a husband + wife team, which brings a completely different approach to that of other photographers who shoot alone or simply hire a second shooter. Our couples love the fact that they get to know who we are and what they can expect on the day rather than some random dude that just turns up and meets the couple 5 minutes before the ceremony.
Also – we make our couples look and feel freakin’ awesome!
4. Do tell us a bit more about what a bride should do or say to help you – let’s say maybe give you some more details about the lighting on the venue or about the style she will choose for her wedding attire.
There’s so many things we try and find out from our brides before the big day. Firstly, we want to get an idea of who they are: what they enjoy doing in their spare time and what their approach to planning the wedding is. A few months before, we meet the couple again to discuss timings and any formal photos they may wish to request. We deliberately only photograph the groups that the couple request so that we can keep the “formal” part of our service fast-paced, fun and energetic.
We couldn’t think of anything worse than spending an hour and a half lining up 20 different combinations of the same family whilst the rest of their guests get bored. It’s important to give the photographer whatever time they require. We request a small amount of time for each part of the day and it’s quite easy for this time to be significantly reduced. The more time you can honor your photographer with, the more chance you have of obtaining the images that you booked them for in the first place.
5. Have you got any wedding you’ve photographed and that has a very special meaning for you? Can you describe it or can show us a picture?
This is going to sound really naff, but every wedding is genuinely important to us in some way. We build a rapport with every couple and get to know “their story”, so it’s super awesome when they finally tie the knot. Needless to say, every couples story is different so some “hit us” harder than others.
We recently did a wedding for an American couple in Edinburgh that have an incredible story. I’ll save you every detail but the basic outline is that they both moved to Scotland a couple of years back because they loved the city of Edinburgh and for the brides education.
They chose to get married there, with a small intimate crowd of around 20-odd guests. The couple were totally on our wave length and loved our quirky, fun approach to wedding photography. They were super care-free and live life as it comes, we completely fell in love with and they’ve left a huge impression on us and where we see ourselves in the future.
6. From your point of view, how should a perfect wedding be like?
Every wedding should have a cake in the shape of a Freddo chocolate bar. If it aint got that – it aint a perfect wedding. Just kidding, I guess the perfect wedding is subjective in that as long as it’s perfect to the couple – that’s all that matters.
Being wedding photographers, we see some things that want to make us get married all over again and some things we’d rather avoid but at the end of the day, as long as the bride and groom are enjoying their day, that’s all that matters. Personally, a wedding for us should be relaxed, fun and a chance to party hard!
7. And tell us what would you offer a future bride and, maybe, other photo teams can’t.
That’s easy. We offer us. There our 1000’s of photographers out there, and we know that our style and personalities aren’t for everyone, but if a couple feel some kind of connection with us and our work, then we HAVE to photograph their wedding.
8. Last but not least, do you have any advice for FashionBride readers?
Don’t think too much. Oh and party hard. Love you!
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FashionBride Interview with Karan from Royst & Aran
Karan the designer of Royst & Aran spent many years on the stage wearing beautiful costume and intricate head pieces whilst studying at The Royal Ballet School. She has a keen eye for elegant, striking design and all things sparkly. Inspiration for her exclusive and exquisite collections is taken from Vintage Hollywood glamour and the graceful and sophisticated head dresses worn in ballet.That’s why I thought an interview would be perfect if we want to know a bit more about the art or accessorizing a wedding gown. Here’s what FashionBride found out for you. Don’t forget to visit Royst and Aran after you finish reading.
1. When did you decide to become a designer and why did you find this domain interesting?
I studied at The Royal Ballet School in London for eight years and spent many years on stage wearing intricate costumes and headpieces. I loved the beauty of the pieces and the feeling that a costume changed you into a different role or character and made you feel very glam! I always felt it was a natural progression to start designing. I also loved getting married myself, so I wanted to be able to play a special part in other peoples’ weddings.
2. Talk us through the first years of your work. Maybe you could tell us what changed over time? Are your designs different from the very beginning?
When I first started creating headpieces I didn’t have the confidence in my own ideas or styles, I played it a little bit too safe. Now I design pieces that I feel represent me as a designer and I offer brides the more quirky and unusual pieces that are unique to Royst & Aran. Also brides are now opting more and more for headbands rather than the traditional tiaras, so a lot of my designs are now based on one sided headbands or full headbands which I thoroughly love creating.
3. Why should a bride-to-be choose one of your designs?
With a Royst & Aran accessory each design is totally unique and a one off piece. They are made from stunning vintage components so are very couture. A vintage design can be your “Something old, and Something new”.
Furthermore, I spend many hours creating my designs and a lot of love and care goes into each piece. I feel that my designs are keepsakes and something to be handed down. I also offer a bespoke service so I can work on creating something very personal.4. Do tell us a bit more about your inspiration sources.
I spend many hours looking at bridal magazines and wedding blogs. I source vintage components that I just love and this helps in the creation of the designs. The vintage eras are also very glam and inspire me greatly as well as ballet headdresses. A lot of the time brides themselves also give me amazing ideas.
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 regularly get asked to design bespoke pieces. Bespoke pieces are some of my favourite designs and they challenge me as a designer. I had a lovely bride called Becks whose brief was a floating flower and leaf tiara. It is my favourite design to date as it was so beautiful and unique. (Picture 1 attached) Becks had a great sense of style and individuality, she had an amazing wedding and I was very proud to of been an important part of it.
6. From your point of view, how should a perfect bride look
The perfect bride is one that feels confident and has her own unique style and personality. And of course is wearing something gorgeous from Royst & Aran!
7. And tell us what would you give her that, maybe, other brands can’t.
A selection of unique designs which guarantee that everyone will be asking her…where did you get your gorgeous headpiece from. I am also very passionate about my business and the people I work with, I strive to make each bride feel important and special whilst creating their perfect accessory. I also try to offer the style conscious brides who don’t have the bank busting budgets gorgeous and affordable accessories.
8. Last but not least, do you have any advice for FashionBride readers
Be confident and gorgeous on your wedding day, don’t be afraid to break with tradition and do something a little different!
