TheFashionBridesInterviews
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FashionBride Interview with Kara Janx
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Here you have some of Kara’s thought on fashion, work and life! Enjoy and don’t forget to check her fab site.
1. When did you decided to become a designer and why did you find this domain interesting?
I finished my degree in Architecture at the University of Cape Town in South Africa, and then moved to NYC to work as an architect. NYC has evening programs in a variety of subjects including fashion at FIT . Whilst working during the day as an architect, I would attend classes at night.
It just felt very natural. I never received any type of degree/diploma. I studied classes that I felt were relevant to what it took to understand the construction of a garment. I also made sure to learn every single machine and its possibilities, so that I know the limits or outer limits of what I could do with fabric and so that I could converse in the same language with the pattern maker, cutter & seamstress.
Within my first few months of part-time studies, I got a job as assistant designer at JCrew. It was also at the same time that stores started to place really decent size orders. It was an obvious as well as organic decision
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 started out silk screening on fabric and converting the fabric into underwear and t-shirts, both received such an incredible response. Everything was done by hand. It was definitely a gradual revolution as requests for more styles come from buyers and customers alike that I broadened the fabrics and silhouettes into what they are today.
One really needs to find their niche in the marketplace, and it definitely took some trial and error before I, and the buyers knew exactly what they could expect from the brand season in and out. Now the buyer and customer buys the label specifically for the dresses and tops.
The brand has come a long way, but the journey has been if at times crazy, so much fun!
4. Do tell us a bit more about your inspiration sources for your collection.
Color and fabrication are always key when introducing trends into the collection. Traveling, my husband and gorgeous children inspire everything that exists in my work and my life. Living, breathing and working in NYC, one cannot help but be stimulated: the mind, eyes and ears. It’s the streets of Manhattan that really impact my designs
The Dylan dress is my daughter’s name, when I named the dress I knew it would be a best seller, and IT IS!!!
6. From your point of view, how should a perfect bride look like?
I honestly think every bride is perfect, there is a confidence and radiance that a bride has that is almost contagious.
I remember being a bride and thinking that my husband and I were in a kind of bubble, like we were floating.
It’s the dress, makeup, hair, nails, shoes, jewels, flowers…everything is so well thought out, for me that is as good as perfection gets
7. And tell us what would you give her and, maybe, other brands can’t.
The brand offers a package that is so uniquely different from all the other brands. It’s edgy, hip and progressive. The line also crosses the boundaries, whereas the dresses easily translate into bridesmaid dresses, rehearsal dinners, cocktail parties.
We have had so many bridal parties lately and the general comment is that every girl in the bridal party enjoyed there dress, as it wasn’t constricting & dated, rather youthful, chic and fun.
8. Last but not least, do you have any advice for FashionBride readers?
Yes, try and enjoy the process, it truly is a once in the lifetime experience, try and treat the planning as part of the fun of getting married. Take it in your stride and be the gorgeous gal you always dreamed of being
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FashionBride Interview with Fred Hord from MyGlassSlipper.com
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1. When did you start to find this domain interesting?
After college I ran my Mother’s wedding gown salon. I invested some time in improving the shoe department and it really took off. Within a couple of years I had created MyGlassSlipper.com and had the entire inventory on-line.
Eventually, the shoe department and website were taking all my time so my wife and I purchased the department from my Mother and formed a separate business that only sold wedding shoes.
2. Take us through the first years of your work. Maybe you could tell us what did change in time?
The first year was shaky to say the least. We assumed control of the business six weeks before 9/11. After that, the bottom fell out and nobody bought anything for months. It was January before things picked up and many, many more months before we were out of the red. One year later we moved into a new location.
Another year later we opened a New York location. The next year we purchased our competitor, BridalShoes.com. The next year we opened a store in NJ. And finally in 2007, our fifth year, we purchased PromShoes.com.
Each of the first five years we saw 20%-30% growth. Also in 2007 we closed our Virginia store and distribution center and moved to Missouri where quality staff was more readily available and real estate was more affordable. The last few years have proved more challenging but we have become a better company because of it.
3. Why should a bride-to-be choose your products?
As any bride-to-be will find, there aren’t that many different bridal shoes out there. Most sites carry much of the same products. In addition to those styles, MyGlassSlipper.com works with designers to create exclusive styles that aren’t otherwise available.
We also keep good sellers in production for as long as brides continue to buy them. We offer custom shoe dyeing as well. Our staff is familiar with the bridal industry where as the phone reps at the giant shoe websites cannot help with or answer bridal related questions.
Unfortunately, no matter how many angles of the shoe you photograph, the customer will have to try the shoes on in order to make a decision.
We have recently launched video reviews so the customer can see the shoe in motion and hear how the person wearing the shoe felt about it.
5. Last but not least, do you have any advice for FashionBride readers?
I will stick to the bridal shoe topic for my advice, “Don’t over analyze the shoes”. Don’t examine the shoes under a microscope to ensure perfection or you will always be disappointed.
It is easy to find a flaw in a shoe made of white satin. Your wedding shoes really take a beating during the wedding so keep in mind what you are going to do to these shoes before you try to find a flawless pair. How long do you think it takes Gallagher to choose a watermelon?
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FashionBride Interview with Nicole Joy Leibman
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We start the week with Nicole Joy Leibman, the designer behind Little Purple Cow, a brand that will make your wedding attire look stunning with perfect matching jewelry. Enjoy and discover your way to become a FashionBride!
1. When did you decide to become a designer and why did you find this domain interesting?
Everything started at the beginning of the recession when I lost my job practicing law. Looking back, it was the best thing that could have happened because it led me to creating this line. Basically, I was playing around with some ornate spoons that I found in my family’s basement. I have always known since a child that I wanted to pursue something creative in the design field, but it was never clear whether it was clothes, or jewelry. I think the passion I found for designing jewelry was more or an organic progression.
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?
The first piece I worked on was a spoon bracelet. It took about 3 or 4 tries to finally come up with the “Spoonlet” design we have now. The very first version we had was a huge spiral and looked like a giant ring but we soon realized that you couldn’t get it over your wrist–a huge goof on our part!
As far as the rings, we based them off of what was done in the 1970’s, which seems novel to the younger generation even though they were so popular back then. My father really wanted to make ours more unique than the traditional spiral that he remembered. That’s why a few of our rings actually curve up. Our newest rings are even edgier and bigger. They go across multiple fingers which I think adds a really interesting element. And they also work with the current trends which call for bigger statement pieces.
3. Why should a bride-to-be choose one of your jewelry?
I think we offer something truly unique that bride’s cant find anywhere else. Our custom pieces are soo personal that they really add a special touch. In addition, we try and make it easy for the brides to choose their pieces so we help take finding bridesmaids gifts off their never-ending checklist. As a bonus of course, the pieces are so affordable that bride’s love that!
4. Do tell us a bit more about your inspiration sources for your collection.
My two nieces have really been the inspiration for the storybook ring collection. After I had started the spoon rings, I was over eating dinner and saw their cute little plastic baby spoons with Dora the Explorer and the Disney Characters and thought “What if they had silver spoons with these characters?”. I started sourcing old silver children’s spoons with different characters and it just seemed to work so well. These spoons had so much detail — a lot of them have the characters name written out – that they’ve been a huge success.
5. Do you also work with brides or you just try to give them the best of your designs in your collections?
Originally, we wanted the line to be a kind of Netflix for jewelry—customers would send us their silverware and we would turn it into jewelry, and set it back. As time went on, we realized that there were a number of problems with this as a business model. The concept evolved into the collections we have now, which work great as bridesmaids’ gifts. Even still, we wanted to keep true to the original idea and leave an option open for special, customized products. This is the service we now offer as wonderful bridesmaid’s gifts or mementos for the brides themselves.
The first bride I worked with was a childhood friend. I met with her mother and we went through a number of family heirlooms and settled on a sterling baby toothbrush. We then picked out different stones that would go with the bridesmaid’s dresses. What’s nice is that the bride or her mother gets to keep the original heirloom-turned-ring as a family keepsake. All the bridesmaids get a replica of the final piece so they have something that’s’ so personal, its actually like a piece of the bride. Unlike a lot of other bridesmaid’s gifts, the rings are fashionable and cool pieces they actually want to wear.
6. Have you got any designs you’ve created and that has a very special meaning for you? Can you describe it or can show us a picture?
I’ve got lots of things coming out, but I’ll have to wait to share them. I think the Remington Bibb was a really big moment for me. I had the concept for the typewriter necklace for the longest time in my mind that it was almost a year from when I had the idea until I found the typewriter. And then the feeling six months after that when it was finished was just so satisfying, that I was able to create such a one-of-a-kind piece that existed literally only in my imagination.
7. From your point of view, how should a perfect bride look like?
Like the best, and most beautiful version of herself.
8. And tell us what would you give her and, maybe, other brands can’t.
The personalization. You can get a lot of things engraved or monogrammed, but our custom pieces really offer something so nostalgic and sentimental. When you wear it you know there is so much meaning and significance behind it. As a bridesmaid, you know that you share such an intimate piece of this bride’s past and future.
9. Last but not least, do you have any advice for FashionBride readers?
Don’t lose site of the big picture in all the planning. Its not about the planning and the details, its about the person waiting for you at the end of the aisle.
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Fashion Bride interview with Susan Hogg
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That’s why I wanted to ask Susan Hogg, founder of Happily ever AfterWords, a couple of questions. Here you have her insight on what makes a wedding special and why every bride should have an Anniversary Box!
1. When did you decide to start a business in the bridal field and why did you find this domain interesting?
My mother in-law gave my husband and I the original anniversary box over thirty years ago and unknowingly began a lasting tradition in our early years of marriage. Each year, we would open a letter and smile, remembering our wedding day. It was always a nice way to reconnect with those who had been with us on that day, but on our 11th anniversary, I really felt the power of this gift. Our 11th letter was from my grandmother, who had passed away years before. It was such a moving experience to read her words from so long ago and I wanted to share that incredible gift with others.
After that, I couldn’t get the idea out of my head. With each anniversary, I thought about how this would be a great product to market to brides. When I was finally able to share my idea with Michelle Davis, my design partner at circle S studio, my dream turned into a reality.
2. Talk us through the first years of your work. Maybe you could tell us what changed in time?
We began work in 2002. We come from a branding and graphic design background and we approached the Anniversary Box like we would any other project. It began with an initial strategy. Then, an understanding of the marketplace.
By piecing the two together, we formed our marketing plan. We did our homework – focus group testing, market assessments, and proformas to understand profitability – all in an effort to comprehend the marketplace. We took careful consideration in regards to marketing, product design and branding so that our product would be well received by the bridal market. We also had to find the right manufacturing partner in order to ensure a quality product.
Since we began in 2002, we have yet to see another product like ours and we are pleased to be the first to offer the Anniversary Box or anything like it to brides.3. Why should a bride-to-be/guest choose your product?
The joy and love of the wedding should last more than a day, it should last a lifetime. The Anniversary Box makes that possible.
It is like capturing all of the memorable toasts and special moments from the wedding in a box so that the bride and groom are able to relive the happiness of the day over and over again. With this box, the couple is able to reconnect with friends and remember loved ones who have passed away. That feeling is irreplaceable.
4. Do tell us a bit more about the boxes.
We wanted to stay true to the original idea and create a box that would be durable, timeless, and elegant. In the end, we accomplished our goal and succeeded in taking a homemade product and turning it into an elegant piece.
5. What does your project bring special to a wedding?
I think that guests appreciate the thought of being included in a couple’s life for years to come.
Recently, I participated in the note writing at a rehearsal dinner for two friends. They brought out the Anniversary Box and suddenly everyone was telling stories, sharing ideas, talking about their weddings and their hopes, remembering stories about the bride and groom and generally having a wonderful time. It brought the group together, and the fun continued throughout the wedding weekend. Even the groomsmen loved the Anniversary Box idea and took great care to write meaningful notes to the couple. The process sparked an energy and camaraderie amongst the family and friends who had come to celebrate this special moment and it really enlivened the entire event.
It’s been great hearing of similar experiences from other couples. Our customers have found some very fun and creative ways to incorporate the Anniversary Box into their wedding!6. From your point of view, how should a perfect bride/wedding be like?
The perfect bride does what is authentic, she takes her wedding and makes it her own – an expression of herself. We would be honored to be a part of any bride’s wedding tradition.
There’s the saying “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.” Well, we want the Anniversary Box to be included on that list of traditions as “something true.” So far we’ve heard great feedback from brides who have incorporated this new tradition into their ceremony and we hope that it catches on.
7. And tell us what would you give her and, maybe, other brands can’t.
We give the bride a timeless, irreplaceable gift. There isn’t anything like this on the market. There’s nothing that captures the heart of the wedding so well.
8. Last but not least, do you have any advice for FashionBride readers?
As a mother of a recently married daughter, the best advice I can give is, throughout the process, create memories that will last a lifetime. Make sure it’s not a moment that begins and ends with your wedding day, but one that you can remember and cherish for the rest of your life.
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FashionBride Interview with Nancy Liu Chin
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Discover in the next lines a person motivated only by her passions and her love for stylish, elegant and most of all heart melting designs. I’m a huge fan of her work so it’s no surprise that a consider her one of the best in the field. From my many reviews she sure get’s a well deserved place in my top 10 best designers. Read it as fast as you can and then go to Nancy’s website for a bit more about her and her work.
1. When did you decided to become a designer and why did you find this domain interesting?
After college, I went to work for a few retail giants including Gap and Macy’s. I’ve always liked working with color, fabrics, texture and spaces.
Floral design came pretty natural to me because 1) my mom is a huge lover of floral design and ever since I was little she just loved arranging for church or our house so I was surrounded by beautiful flowers and 2) retail merchandising is often about creating a welcoming space and a story in a very small area withmerchandise….floral and event design is the marriage of my love for flowers and my love for creating a “merchandise” story.
I guess I really wanted to focus on floral and event design after 9/11 because I realized that life was short and you have to go for it. The transition from retail to weddings was very easy because I’m actually married to a wedding photographer, Kevin Chin so I knew what were the pro’s and con’s.
2. Talk us trough the first years of you work. Maybe you could tell us what did change in time?
In the beginning it was all about getting projects. You are constantly thirsty to try things out. Whether it was a floral designer, new vase, or new location, everything seemed novel. It was definitely a time to develop your brand, your goals, and your style.
I think I was much bolder in the beginning because I was ignorant of what could go wrong. I’m much more research oriented now. I test things out more often. I triple count and check things because I’ve learned from those early mistakes.
3. Why should a bride-to-be choose your services?
I think it’s a combination of experience, ability to juggle, knowledge of the industry, relationships with my vendors, and understanding about the concept of team spirit. When you are new, one’s zealous nature might prevent them from seeing themselves as part of a larger team.
Wisdom comes from being softer, knowing when to speak,understanding when to more appropriate to listen, and actually helping others by pointing out short cuts. Because we’ve done so many events,we can react to unforeseen circumstances and issues with speed efficiency. We’ve(meaning my entire staff and design team) have honed in on what works.
We can often read each other’s thoughts and anticipate needs which a new and inexperienced designer might not have that ability to do. It’s about leadership and being able to think quickly. I think that’s what we do best.
4. How long does it take organize a wedding?
It really depends on the wedding and the scope of the work. No matter what it takes much longer than one would imagine.
5. Do tell us a bit more about your inspiration sources.
I have so many inspiration sources. Style icons: Audrey Hepburn, Vera Wang, Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, Carolina Herrera Floral and Wedding Design lcons: Paula Pryke, Jane Packer, Preston Bailey, Orna of Ornamento, Ariella Chezar, Nico de Swert, Daniel Ost, David Beahm, Lewis Miller Hotels: Viceroy Palm Springs, Clift Hotel SF, Peninsula’s Felix hotel,Begawen Giri in Bali, The Chedi in Chiang Mai, The Delano in SouthBeach, One and Only Palmilla in Los Cabos Wedding Photographers: Meg Smith, Lisa Lefkowitz, Anna Kuperberg, my husband, Kevin Chin – just beautiful! Beautiful spaces are inspiring to me.
6. Have you got any projects you’ve created and that have a very special meaning for you? Can you describe it or can show us a picture?
There are countless, not sure if I can pinpoint one. I would say the first wedding that I got into Martha Stewart is obviously special. It was the first time that I really did more than just the flowers. I really got inspired by the bride, Lisa Wong Jackson of Good on Paper.
She was a dream client who really put so many details into the wedding that the story just “popped”. Another one would be my own 10th anniversary. I loved that I put it together in less than 1 day. The idea came to me because I wanted to reuse these pears and apples that I just recently bought for a client.
Reusing and making it look fresh is one of my favorite things to do. It’s even eco-friendly. [images of Nancy’s favorite weddings are inserted in the post 🙂 ]
7. From your point of view, how should a perfect wedding be like?
To me, a perfect wedding is about the people. It’s about genuine love for your family and each other. It’s about not worrying about details and going with the flow. It’s about being considerate to your guests and making them feel important and welcomed.
It’s not about impressing people but about doing something that makes you happy from within. Cherishing the moment and its imperfections that’s what makes for a perfect wedding….and pretty flowers help also!
8. And tell us what would you give her and, maybe, other brands can’t.
Interesting question. I think many designers can design and certainly many can design better than I can. But you can’t teach a business to care. You can’t teach people to take pride in their work so that they want to delivery the best. You can’t teach people to get passionate about something unless they love what they do. We love what we do and it shows.
9. Last but not least, do you have any advice for FashionBride readers?
Too much is spent on worrying. Sometimes people need to take a step back and not look too close because if you are too close to something you might miss what’s going on around you.
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FashionBride Interview with Belinda Ang
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This time, trough my blog, I managed to get some fabulous answers from a very talented designer. I was mesmerised by Belinda Ang’s designs since the first moment I laid my eyes on them and this interview showed me exactly the reasons why: Belinda creates with her heart, mind and spirit and the results are breathtaking.
Find a piece of vintage design heaven in my interview and don’t forget to check her website www.belinda-ang.com .
1. When did you decide to become a designer and why did you find this domain interesting?
I was 27 when I got in touch with my creative self again and that was after a degree in engineering and several years in the corporate sector. I was fortunate to be able to indulge myself in Higher Art during high school and this desire to create beautiful things manifested itself in fashion a few years ago. I could not find clothes that I was 100% happy with in terms of design or fit for special occasions (like a good friend’s wedding) and this led me to pursue a course in pattern-making and sewing, so that I could design and make my own. Contrary to popular beliefs, my education background and experience from outside the fashion industry have in fact sharpened my sense of aesthetics and heightened my sensitivity to details, which are so important in fashion designing. Fashion continues to motivate me with its diversity, constant state of change and relevance to our everyday lives. For as long as my creativity allows, I would want to continue designing and creating pieces that make my clients feel beautiful.
2. Talk us through the first years of your work. Maybe you could tell us what did change in time? Are your designs different from the very beginning?
When I first started designing, I was creating more of what I personally liked in terms of silhouette, fabrics and details. Gradually though, my perspectives widened and I became more experimental in my designs and selection of fabrics. To me, designing is a constantly evolving process but my design style will always lean in the direction of creating classic and timeless pieces.
3. Why should a bride-to-be choose one of your gowns?
My collections tend to be colourful with plenty of motifs and I hope my designs will appeal to brides-to-be who appreciate prints, colours and laces either in their own dresses/ gowns or their bridesmaids’ dresses.
4. How long does it take to design a single wedding dress?
This really depends on how soon the inspiration comes. Sometimes, the design comes to me but it takes time to find the perfect fabric(s) to bring the design to life. Sometimes a fabric captivates me first and I will have to spend some time sketching to come up with the right design to complement the fabric.
5. Do tell us a bit more about your inspiration sources for your collection.
I am very impressed by how women in the 1920-1970’s always look so put together despite that silhouettes used to be simpler and construction, less complicated than today. There is a certain essence of timeless elegance in last century’s vintage that I try to incorporate into my designs, so that my creations continue to look appropriate and chic, be it today or decades later.
6. So you also work with brides or you just try to give them the best of your designs in your collections?
As every client has her own personality and expectations, I do work with each client to design a dress or gown uniquely for her special day or special occasion. Personalizing my existing designs to the individual client’s preferences is also an option that can be explored. As each of my designs will be made specifically to the client’s measurements, it only makes sense for my designs to be customisable as well.
7. Have you got any gown you have created and that has a very special meaning for you?
The most memorable gown I have created will be the Bliss Gown. Just the embroidery of crystals, pearls and beads on the dual-tone French lace bodice alone took 10 man-hours to complete.
Bliss Gown 8. From your point of view, how should a perfect bride look like?
I believe a bride should look and feel like herself, only more beautiful and confident on her wedding day.
9. And tell us what would you give her and maybe other brands can’t?
I think every brand has its own strengths and appeal to individual brides. What is important is that each bride must be able to connect to and communicate with her selected designer, so that at the end of the collaboration, she gets the dress or gown of her dreams. This is what I offer to the bride who identifies with my design style – the capacity to listen to her ideals and willingness to go the extra mile to fulfil her wish.
10. Can you give us an insight on your new collection? What were your inspiration sources, what did you opt for as materials, shapes etc.
The Spring Summer 2010 collection is very romantic with a lot of floral prints, laces and pastel colours to reflect the mood of the season. Silhouettes are both fluid and structured with soft fabrics like silk charmeuse, chiffon and lace being juxtaposed against crisp materials like silk dupioni and Thai silk.
11. Do you like a more tradtional approach or do you try to create a different image of the traditional bride?
I do not have a fixed approach in designing although I do appreciate and use traditional techniques in the construction of my designs.
12. Last but not least, do you have advice for FashionBrides readers?
I think it is very important to find your own style for your wedding day and to stand by your style even if it is unconventional by the usual standards. As the bride, it is your prerogative to be the centre of attention on your wedding day and to enjoy the attention, you have to be comfortable and confident in your chosen style of wedding dress or gown.
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FashionBride interview with Anne Bowen
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That’s why I thought appropriate asking her a couple of questions for my FashionBride readers. I found out more about her latest collection, her inspiration sources and what her gowns can do for you. Read all about it right now!
1.When did you decided to become a designer and why did you find this domain interesting?
I have always wanted to become a designer, but I did not make it a business venture until later.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 worked as a marketing executive full-time. My boss was a strong supporter and entrepreneur who factored some of my first orders. As far as my aesthetic, there is a consistency in palette, sensibility, and point of view. The evolution of confidence in my own ideas has been integral to being creative.3. Why should a bride-to-be choose one of your gowns?
It is always a big decision: the right gown for the right bride. Our bride is confident, yet feminine. She wants to be sexy with elegance. She understands and wants something by a ready to wear designer for that reason.4. How long does it take to design a single wedding dress?
Designing with inspiration creates a tornado of ideas. One must be focused and be able to experience the deluge of ideas. One has to be able to edit and sculpt a finished concept carefully. Time – minutes – years.5. Do tell us a bit more about your inspiration sources for your collection.
“Arctic Tsarina” is about the reflection of light in the moonstone and crystals, in the shimmer of the chiffons and satins used coupled with the images.6. Do you also work with brides or you just try to give them the best of your designs in your collections?
We rarely get to work directly with the brides, but it is an exciting moment to see them so exhilarated when they love the gown you designed.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?
My favorite gown these past few seasons is the ENTWINE. It has a sensual silhouette and has a fashion forward look with shredded chiffon and organza layers, so it felt a bit deconstructed and spontaneous.8. From your point of view, how should a perfect bride look like?
Brides should be true to themselves. They should be free to wear what looks best on them and suits their personality.
Our gowns while sophisticated, feel fresh, young, sexy, glamorous, and uniquely individual.10. Do you like a more traditional approach or do you try to create a different image of the traditional bride?
I hope we are bringing a more modern point of view for the brides of today.11. Last but not least, do you have advice for FashionBride readers?
1. You are beautiful.
2. You already won the prize – The Groom will be going home with you!
3. Breathe and remember #2. -
FashionBride Interview with Sarah Jassir
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Sarah Jassir was born and raised in Iran,where she lived until she was 17. She studied fashion in Iran and Turkey before immigrating to the United States in 1997.
With a fashion career that spans more than two decades and several continents,including stints at Valentino, Vera Wang and Amsale, Jassir brings a rare combination of technical expertise and global perspective to the bridal industry.
Here is FashionBride’s interview with this amazing bridal designer.
When did you decided to become a designer and why did you find this domain interesting?
I was 13 when I first decided to be a designer. My mother used to create beautiful gowns during her spare time in Iran which I found really exiting. That was what inspired me to be a designer when I grew up.
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?
When I started designing here in new York I mostly designed what I would wear myself. But later on I started designing after what my customers desired. Most of my customers are well-travelled and educated so my gowns became more couture and got an edge of the European style.
Why should a bride-to-be choose one of your gowns?
I choose my fabrics carefully, quality is really important to me. Your wedding day should be one of the happiest day of your life, that’s why I make sure that my brides-to-be are as comfortable as possible in the gowns.
How long does it take to design a single wedding dress?
Making each dress is a labor of love! It can take everything from one day to years. I want my dresses to be perfect in every way!
Do tell us a bit more about your inspiration sources for your collection.
All my dresses are named after woman who touched me during my life. The inspiration for the line came from all the woman who overcame their fears and fights for freedom.
Do you also work with brides or you just try to give them the best of your designs in your collections?
I’m very inspired to work close to the brides when the opportunity comes, we inspire each other.
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?
One of my favorite dresses is the one I named after my best friend during high school, Roya. She had a really hard time in school because of her religious believes. Her whole family was persecuted because they weren’t Muslims
Each bride is special and unique. I want them to express their individuality trough the dress as much as possible, that’s what makes a bride, in my opinion perfect.
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 more towards the European couture style. Moore beading and lace and hand draping.
Do you like a more traditional approach or do you try to create a different image of the traditional bride?
I love to reinvent the traditional, add new to the old. My newest collection is very modern and couture, but it still has the touch of the classic European style.
Last but not least, do you have advice for FashionBride readers?
My advice to the FashionBride readers is that you should be passionate about what you wear, never compromise. Your wedding day is all about you and it is going to be one of the happiest days of your life so you should really love and be confident in your dress!
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FashionBride Interview with Rami Al Ali
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Here is what I discovered for you, hope you like it and that you will consider having a Rami Al Ali wedding gown on your special day.
When did you decide to become a designer and why did you find this domain interesting?
I have always been fascinated with fashion. From very early on I knew I wanted to be creative as I had a good eye when it came to art and fashion. I was constantly experimenting with all sorts of art materials, creating pieces, sketching and just exploring my talents.
Although I was not totally converted to fashion that happened only after I graduated – I realized then that fashion was the career choice. I suppose by designing dresses for my close friends, I realized my own creativity and decided to enhance that.
Even though, I was not committed to pursuing a career in fashion at this stage. The whole experience was very light-hearted and fun as my friends kept throwing new challenges at me, I had to keep it going and take each challenge head on. I guess indirectly they were trying to show me where my heart really was when it came to career choices and that really became the catalyst for me.
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 certainly have developed new techniques through out my experience, my designs become more mature which is very clear in my recent couture collection for SS2010.
However, my style is almost the same; still I managed to keep a certain line to follow in each collection, although I try to present it in different ways, see it from different angle each time.
Why should a bride-to-be choose one of your gowns?
Because of their timeless elegance, classic cut and perfect fit. Each dress is perfectly designed to ensure the bride wears it with confidence and utter comfort.
How long does it take to design a single wedding dress?
It depends on so many things, like the mood, feeling the theme, being inspired, and with time and experience you try to keep your creative mind “alerted”, by seeing a lot and storing so many ideas, moreover updating your knowledge of trends and styles. Usually, it takes almost a week to come up with the basic design with the right fabric swatches, colour shades and the embroidery samples matching it.
Do tell us a bit more about your inspiration sources for your collection.
For this particular collection, I was looking for something more inspired from the fairy tales royalty, the glamour, the richness, yet applying modern silhouettes, more details on the structure. Building the design from mixing different elements and material, ranging from the full fluffy voluminous multi layered skirt, to the fitted descending fish flakes look-a-like embroidered organza pieces.
Do you also work with brides or you just try to give them the best of your designs in your collections?
Apart from my annual bridal collection, I also work with individual brides to create gowns that reflect their personality as well as one that will make their wedding day special. The process usually starts with the bride’s expectations and her vision.
From then on I get on my drawing board and start sketching. I work closely with the bride to finalize the design, select the fabrics and decide of the embroidery patterns and present her with the dress. Of course brides can also choose from my collection.
Each wedding gown has a significant place in my memory, as each one has been created with several inspirations. For my Autumn/Winter 2009 Collection, I designed a 24 carat gold dress and that certainly tested my creativity as I had to get a gold tulle fabric created especially for this dress.
From your point of view, how should a perfect bride look like?
I think all brides look beautiful; they are radiant and full of love that shows as they walk down the aisle. When it come to dressing up the bride, it’s important that elegance and grace take lead. The bride needs to be comfortable and confidence is her gown as that will reflect in her composure
And tell us what would you give her and, maybe, other brands can’t.
Rami Al Ali gowns will give the bride an eternally classical and elegant look. My gowns are not there to overshadow the bride but rather emphasize her beauty and womanly curves
Can you give us an insight on your new Collection? What where your inspiration sources, what did you opt for as materials, shapes etc.
The new bridal collection for 2010 is dreamy, romantic and rich with details, in a meticulously balanced manner, offering the bride a range of options from classical elegance to modern cuts of western touch. Cuts came multiple, ranging from firm, hips wrapping, focusing on the thin carved waist line, to big voluminous gowns, yet light and easy to move around with; adding an exclusive Victorian influence on the bride.
Embroidery and crystal work is focused on the upper part of the dresses, where the borders are accessorized with details of tulle and crystals to enhance the refinement of the dresses. Some of the gowns were immensely embroidered with beadwork and crystals, and covered then with layers of transparent tulle to emphasize depth, dimension, and intangibility on the design.
Colours are gradient form off-white to pearly shades, mixing embroidery with silver and beige revealing the royal look on the final design. Veils vary from classical flowing fully on the dress to multi layered ones with silk edges or lace studded and embroidered.
Do you like a more traditional approach or do you try to create a different image of the traditional bride?
My approach is complimentary – it fuses the elegance of modern designs and the intricacy of traditional patterns. I don’t limit my creativity with set design rules therefore a gown can easily fit the style preference of either a traditional as well as a non-traditional bride. The wedding dresses I design are conservative for a traditional bride as well as modern enough for a modern bride.
Last but not least, do you have advice for Fashion Bride readers?
Inspiration comes from many sources. Don’t limit yourself to a set of rules; creativity can be inspired by simplicity as well as complexity. Look at what works for you and start from there.
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FashionBride Interview with Jennifer Fallon
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1. When did you decided to get involved in this domain and why did you find it interesting?
When I was searching for my own wedding favors in 2003, I had a difficult time finding what I considered unique, upscale favors at an affordable price. It wasn’t long before I realized there was a definite need for an online site that offered more appealing, high-quality wedding favors at price points for brides at every budget. In 2004, My Wedding Favors was launched online from my basement, with only the best favors that met my standards. Apparently, I had found a valuable niche, and it wasn’t long before the success of MyWeddingFavors.com inspired me to design and manufacture price-conscious wedding favors, bridal shower favors and rehearsal dinner favors with the idea to make the gift-packaging part of the present, and Kate Aspen was born. Helping brides find success in even the smallest detail of wedding planning has become my passion. We now design and manufacture favors, bridesmaids’ gifts and table décor, all sold through our network of Internet resellers and brick-and-mortar stores like Michael’s. Our current collection includes more than 300 original wedding favor designs, and we launch exciting, new favor designs every year.
2. Talk us through the first years of you work. Maybe you could tell us what did change in time? Are your views different from the beginning?
The biggest change was how quickly we grew. In the beginning, when we just had the one Web site, my parents and I handled all the customer service, orders and shipping, but eventually, it became clear that we needed more people for customer service, accounting, warehousing, shipping, product development and marketing, and most important, sourcing and IT. My two partners, Shirley Wang and D.J. Meng, are our sourcing and IT gurus. We now have more than 60 employees and an impressive building that hums with creativity. If anything, my passion has grown because we push the envelope every day in terms of product design and marketing. We’re always inspired by our brides, whom we survey frequently to stay ahead of the curve in tastes and trends. It’s hard to call this work. What’s more joyful and fun than being part of a wedding?
3. Why should a bride-to-be choose one of your products?
Favors are often your last chance to make a great impression at your wedding, and I believe our favors, presented in imaginative gift-packaging, provide brides with exceptional value inside and out. Some value is readily apparent, but some—like the lasting memories you give your guests—are not.
4. Do you offer help to a bride that is not familiar with this domain?
Absolutely! MyWeddingFavors.com features a series of articles on everything from wedding-planning stress busters to getting a passport for your honeymoon. The My Wedding Favors blog is all about brides, trends and ideas for every aspect of weddings and wedding planning. But best of all is our Customer Care Center, which is dedicated to being the best in the industry, and we believe we are. If a bride is looking for something special based on her wedding theme or color scheme, our customer service associates are happy to guide them to all her choices on the site. Whatever questions a bride may have, our team is ready to answer.
6. Do tell us a bit more about your criteria of choice of your products .
We design and choose favors that are top-quality, eye-catching, heartwarming and unforgettable. It takes expertise to offer the largest selection of favors that are also the very best of their genre. Every bride is unique, and we want to make sure we have more than enough choices for every bride. When my partners and I travel the world in search of new products and new ideas, we’re the eyes and hearts of millions of brides-to-be. We take that mission seriously—and happily.
Have you got any particular product that has a very special meaning for you? Can you describe it or can show us a picture?
Tough question. It’s hard to pick a favorite, but I love our “With This Ring” Chrome Diamond Ring Bottle Stopper in the jeweler’s box gift presentation. Here’s a photo:
For me, it’s everything a wedding favor should be. Besides the symbolism of the diamond engagement ring as the very beginning of building a life together, this bottle stopper favor is elegant, practical and adds sparkle to your table decor. You can be certain your guests will take it home and use it. Last, but in no way least, the jeweler’s box gift presentation is unique and simply breathtaking. Though small in stature, a well-chosen favor not only thanks your guests for sharing your celebration, it gives them unforgettable memories of the most important day in your life. That’s what a favor is supposed to do!
8. From your point of view, how should a perfect wedding should look like (from the wedding favors perspective)?
As far as I’m concerned, every wedding is perfect, no matter what crazy things may happen that day. When choosing wedding favors (or bridal shower and rehearsal dinner favors,) the bride or hosts should consider the theme, the color scheme and most of all, personality—not just the bride’s, but their personality as a couple. For example, let’s say the bride and groom are avid golfers getting married at a country club or golf resort. I’d recommend this golf ball tea light.
If you’re an eco-conscious couple, look for eco-friendly wedding favors like our bamboo coasters.
If you’re planning a summer wedding or a beach wedding in a sultry, tropical location, your guests would be eternally grateful for a fan, and we have a couple of beauties!
Wine aficionados planning a wedding should check out wine-themed favors. This Petite Merlot Wine Glass Gel Candle is one of my favorites. I should mention that lots of favors also make exquisite table décor, so brides and shower hosts should keep that in mind when they’re browsing for favors.
Some couples have wild and crazy personalities, and we take care of them as well, with some smile-inspiring, whimsical favors, like “The Gratest Love of All” Stainless-Steel Cheese Grater and the Flip Flop Photo Frame.
Needless to say, wedding trends have moved us toward a variety of themed favors, too—Asian, Indian, Italian, Las Vegas, fairy tale, garden favors are all in our repertoire—and they might be candles, tea light holders, cheese graters, place card holders, bottle stoppers, note pads, salt and pepper shakers, bookmarks, soap, glass coasters, luggage tags, packets of coffee, tea, cocoa or lemonade, margarita drink mixes, purse valets, kitchen timers, photo frames, eco-friendly favors, refrigerator magnets, cookie cutters—we even have a pizza cutter! Creativity is endless, and we take advantage of that every day.
9. And tell us what would you give her and, maybe, other brands can’t.
That’s an easy one. We offer our brides (and all our customers) the largest, unique collection of favors at affordable prices and customer care that’s second to none. We’re especially proud of our In Favor of a Cure™ Pink Ribbon favor collection. Ten percent of sales go toward breast cancer research and other women’s health organizations.
10. Can you give us an insight on your new products?
I’d love to! Here’s a look at a few of our just-launched favors for 2010:
“Razzle Dazzle” Raspberry Iced Tea Mix “Fluttering Heart” Chrome Butterfly Bottle Stopper
“Imperial” Tea Light Holder (Coordinates with Kate Aspen’s “Imperial” Glass Photo Coasters)“Mod Dots” Black-and-White Polka Dot Glass Photo Coaster;
“Whimsical Fields” Spring Leaf Coasters; “Let’s Do Lunch” Personalized Insulated Lunch Tote (Bridesmaids Gift)
11. Last but not least, do you have advice for FashionBride readers?
In every aspect of your wedding planning, do what makes you happy—but first, do your research. Listen to the experts and those who have been there before. They can save you time, money and mistakes. Shop around and negotiate for the best price on your big-ticket items like your venue and catering. And don’t forget the favors!
