My inspiration begins with the first phone call from a potential client. Asking 5 pertinent questions gives me a basic idea of what the bride is looking for and whether or not I will be able to complete the garment in her time frame. The answers also help me decide if I even want to commit to the project.
- When is your wedding?
- What is your venue and what time of day will the wedding be held?
- What style of dress or gown do you have in mind?
- Have you tried on various styles of dresses?
- Do you have a price point in mind?
Then the fun begins. The first meeting with my client is usually very exciting for me.
I want to learn as much about her as I can at this consultation. I pose this simple statement: “tell me about you”. I ask about her profession, what hobbies she enjoys and when she started dreaming about her wedding day. As I listen to her describe the plans for her perfect wedding, I watch her facial expressions and observe how she presents herself. These are clues to her personality that will help us design the perfect dress.
Most brides have features of their body that they would like to accentuate and parts that they want to downplay. As I address her concerns, I make note of her body type, height and weight. They are important components of a flattering style.
We discuss the gown she has in mind: bodice, sleeves, waist position, slim or full skirt, swishy or more like a ball gown. We need to consider what type of lighting she will be in most of the day or evening. Will it be full sun, dusk, evening, candlelight or florescent lighting? This is the point where my creativity really takes over. I have color samples to drape over my client in the type of lighting she will be in most of her day/evening. The color of the fabric and how it enhances her skin tone is very important to me. A discussion of fabric choice and possible embellishments follows.
I check my stock for fabric and embellishments and plan to shop for what I will need. Like most of you, I am very tactile. The fabric in my hand is inspiring and embellishments further the vision. When I see the bride in that almost finished gown, I begin envisioning other options that are unique and could further enhance her dress. When completed we will have the dress of the bride’s dream; flattering and uniquely made for her.
I remember what Armani once said: “Elegance is not about being noticed, it’s about being remembered.”
Written by Ann Hall
