Many brides dream their whole life of their wedding and more especially, their wedding gown. It’s the thing fantasies are made of – silks, tulle, lace, fitted or ballgown. When you meet two women who never imagined they would legally wed as a same-sex couple now turned stunning brides-to-be magic happens.
Alexandra & Julie are writers and artists. Their wedding was inspired by the work of Sir Conan Arthur Doyle’s writing of Sherlock Holmes (books NOT the movies).
With a backdrop of Niagara’s Vintage Hotels (close to my heart, as I too was married at the pillar and post) they truly wanted their gowns to be like them – similar yet different. Together, we dreamed up two unique couture bridal gowns made from identical fabrics of silk faille, french alcenon lace and french tulle. Alexandra (or Alex for short) was inspired by 18th Century English gown design and opted for a ballroom style gown with a corset back and trumpet sleeves. Julie opted for a more modern fitted corseted mermaid gown.
Together in everything, these lovely ladies attended fittings and design meetings hand in hand. The gowns where created to complimented each bride’s unique style while still seamlessly fitting together with shared fabrics and embellishments.
Most importantly, from the very first meeting, the bride’s confessed just how uncomfortable they had felt in other bridal salons. Other Stylist’s or Sales Clerk’s would ask “so who’s the Groom?” or “will one of you where a suit?”. It was well meaning but misinformed and immediately turned the Brides off of mainstream bridal salons. I was thrilled when their Wedding Planner, Crystal Adair-Benning of Distinct Occasions referred them to Valencienne!
There was an immediate sense of excitement, creativity and kindred spirits when we met. Everything just seemed to click and was so comfortable from the very start. There love was inspirational and there laughter was infectious. I truly looked forward to every fitting.
In an intimate library surrounded by only 50 of their loved ones, the ladies said ‘I Do’ and I was blessed to be there to celebrate and dress them the morning of their wedding. Highlights of their celebration included custom book invitations and menus from Palettera, 9 wedding cakes (1 per guest table, a “bride’s” cake, and a traditional wedding cake and an 18th century inspired English Bakery that doubled as the guest favours!
As a Wedding Gown Designer, I am constantly inspired by fashion, art, history, entertainment and literary works but most importantly… by my clients. It was my honour to be apart of Alex & Julie’s magical day- We are so glad you wore Valencienne x2 on your wedding day!
Vendor LOVE
Planner – Distinct Occasions / Photos – Tara McMullen / Ceremony Venue – Prince of Wales / Reception Venue – Pillar & Post / Hair & Makeup – Mobile Bridal Beauty / Horse & Carriage – Sentineal Carriages / Floral Design – Mimosa Flower Studio Linen – Susan Murray / Chairs – Simply Beautiful / Live Sketching & Stationery – Palettera / Candy Table & Favors – Candy by Katie / & Sweet Celebrations / Wedding Cakes (all 9 of them!) – The Caketress / Wedding Gowns – Valencienne / Rings – Leif Benner / Officiant – Jeremy Citron / DJ & MC – Elstone Entertainment
For more beautiful details , you simply MUST check out:
Distinct Occasions Website
Vineyard Bride Blog