Keli & Andrew
December 27 | Hesston, KS
Venue: The groom’s parents’ barn
Q: When you started your gown search, what did you have in mind?
I focused on finding a gown with vintage-looking lace and beading, but more of a modern shape.
Q: Your accessories helped achieve the look. Where did you find them?
I ran across an old fur wrap in an antique store and fell in love with it. Later, we went back to the store and I bought it (for only $18!).
Q: Tell us about your veil. Did you have it on the whole time?
The veil was fingertip-length with scalloped, beaded edging. I kept it on for our first dance, then took it off and gave it to my mother.
Q: You also wore some heirloom jewelry. Did those pieces have special meaning?
In my hair, I wore my grandmother’s old brooch. My two sisters each wore, in their hair, one of the earrings that matched the brooch.
Q: With your style down, how did you choose the bridal party gowns?
I wanted the same vintage/classic look. The overlay material was a gold and robin egg blue lace, fashioned over an almond satin.
Amy & Christopher
March 21 I St. Louis, MO
Venue: Windows on Washington
Q: How would you describe the overall style you were going for?
I was going for a vintage look with a bit of a modern twist. I definitely didn’t want to look like every other bride I saw in the wedding magazines I had been reading.
Q: How did you narrow down your dress search?
I went to three different bridal shops and probably tried on at least 20 different dresses before I found the right one.
Q: Sounds like you found the perfect gown. Did you wear a veil?
Yes, but only for pictures and the ceremony. I also wore a feather fascinator in my hair; this was by far my favorite part of the look!
Q: Are there any beauty items you couldn’t have lived without?
Fake eyelashes! I had never worn them before, and was so glad that I tried them. They made a big impact and looked great in pictures!
Jennifer & John
May 17 I Kansas City
Venue: Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art
Q: Did you have a particular style in mind when you started planning?
Traditional chic probably best describes the style of our wedding. We wanted all the classic elements so that 30 years from now our kids wouldn’t say “What were you thinking?”
Q: Did you alter the style of your dress at all?
The dress was originally strapless with a sweetheart neckline, but I removed the Chantilly lace from the train and created cap sleeves to soften my neckline.
Q: Were there any beauty products you couldn’t have lived without?
No, but a tip I have for future brides would be to have blotting papers, powder, and lip gloss stored just for you in the bathroom at the reception venue for touch-ups.
-- Heather Levine