I DESIGNED MY OWN WEDDING DRESS VIRTUALLY
After trying on at least 10 dresses in stores, I wanted to change something about every single one! I also had a VERY specific vision in my head of the very details I wanted on my dress. My friend told me I should look into getting a completely custom dress to which I questioned, “girl, do you really thing that will fit into my budget?!” And it did!!
I started the whole process by interviewing multiple dress designers— none of which were in Arizona where I live. After interviewing and having a couple of sketches drawn by each dress maker (which I had to pay for), I felt in my gut that I knew which dress maker to choose! BUT, she was in Boston so I knew I had to take a leap and do it all virtually.
Step 1: choosing the designs & sketches.
I talked through everything I wanted with my dress maker & designer, Bre (Bremelia Bridal in Boston). She sketched up exactly what I envisioned and even added a few flairs to spice up the design!
Step 2: choosing fabrics.
This is where you can SAVE or spend MORE money. Bre was super helpful sticking to my budget and suggesting certain fabrics that helped to keep costs to a minimum. She also made suggestions based on whether I wanted to be able to have more movement or stretch in the dress so I can dance comfortably!
Step 3: fittings.
I actually flew out to Boston for my fittings and stayed there for a weekend! This was SO fun and my mom came with me. It was a special weekend where my mom and I could share these memories together experiencing a new city and also seeing me in the dress for the first time!
Step 4: more sewing.
I was still in Boston while they sewed the rest of the dress onto the shell and I came back the next day to try it on again and make some bigger decisions!
Step 5: deciding whether we wanted to keep the sleeves.
This was the biggest decision and I am SO happy I chose to keep the sleeves. I had always envisioned having a dress with sleeves when I got married. It added so much unique detailing to the dress since the sleeves had mesh polka dots and 3D flowers everywhere.
Step 6: Final Product!
The dress was shipped in the mail about a month before the wedding and I was able to try it on and make sure everything was ready for the big day. This was the smoothest and best experience I could have asked for!
If you’re looking to go the custom route, I highly recommend scheduling a phone consult with Bre at @bremelia on Instagram! She went above and beyond and exceeded my expectations 🫶🏻🤍😍
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So, you've seen my journey to get my dream custom wedding dress, and maybe you're thinking, 'Could I really design my own wedding dress?' The answer is a resounding YES! It felt daunting at first, wondering if a bespoke gown would even fit into my budget or if I could manage it all virtually. But my experience showed me it's totally achievable, and there are ways to make it work for you too. When it comes to finding your virtual designer, don't rush. Look for someone with a strong portfolio that resonates with your style. Communication is key, especially when you're not in the same city. Ask about their process for virtual clients, how they handle measurements, and what their payment structure looks like. It’s important to feel a genuine connection and trust their vision. My designer was incredible at translating my ideas into detailed sketches, which made the whole process feel real even from afar. Translating your vision might seem like the biggest hurdle, especially if you're not an artist. Don't worry about needing to know 'how to sketch dresses' professionally yourself. Instead, focus on gathering inspiration. Pinterest boards, screenshots from other dresses you love, and even rough drawings can be incredibly helpful. Think about the specific details you envision: a dramatic 'backless wedding dress', delicate '3D floral details' scattered on the skirt, or perhaps intricate 'polka dots on sheer sleeves' like mine. Even describing the feel – romantic, modern, ethereal – can guide your designer. If you're exploring a 'wedding dress designer app' for initial ideas, those can be great starting points to visualize elements. Choosing fabrics virtually can be tricky, but it's where you have a lot of control over the final look and cost. Beyond just budget, consider the drape and weight of different 'bridal fabrics'. Do you want something flowing and light like chiffon, or a more structured satin? My designer helped me understand how specific fabrics would move when I danced, which was super practical. Always ask for swatches to feel the texture and see the color in different lighting. This step is crucial for getting those 'wedding dress details close up' just right. Now, about fittings – the part many worry about with a virtual process. While I flew for my main fittings, it's not the only way! Many designers work with local seamstresses or provide incredibly detailed instructions for taking your measurements. You might even have video calls during a 'custom dress fitting session' where the designer guides a local tailor or a trusted friend on pinning. The goal is to ensure the 'fitted bodice' is perfect and the 'flowing skirt' has the right movement. Seeing the 'partially constructed' gown come to life, even if through photos or video, is so exciting. Finally, let's talk budget. A custom dress doesn't automatically mean breaking the bank. Be upfront with your designer about your financial limits. They can often suggest alternatives, like using less expensive fabric for hidden layers or reducing the amount of elaborate embellishment. Prioritize the elements most important to you – maybe it’s a specific lace, or those 'satin buttons down the back' you've always dreamed of. Every detail adds up, from the length of the 'long train' to the complexity of the '3D floral details'. With good communication and a clear understanding of costs, you can achieve a truly unique gown that feels perfectly 'bridal' without any surprises. It's an investment in something truly yours, crafted just for your special day.
Wow. A dream!!