Our Beautiful Custom Bride Emily Belle

Date: November 5, 2022

Colors: Burgundy, blush, champagne and a touch of navy blue among lots of greenery!

Photographer - Valentina Vlade Photography

Videographer - Shutter and Sound

Catering - Scott Tanner with Caitlyn's Cakes

Wedding Planner - Heather Henson with Guest list events

Florist - Kate Dreinhofer, Rainflorist

Makeup Artist - Laura Catron Artistry

Hair - Kris, Goldie & Co.

Venue - The Springs Rockwall

Emily came into our store with a vision for her wedding dress that was absolutely beautiful. Although she loved our sample Molly dress, she wanted to customize it to make it even more perfect for her big day. Emily wanted to change everything from the back, neckline, silhouette, and even the lace and beading. We were thrilled to work with her on this project and make her dream dress a reality.

The bride designed the dress together with her mom as a mother-daughter project. Throughout the process, Emily was very hands-on, we loved showing her everything from the paper patterns to the lace mapping. Every detail was important to her, and we were happy to make sure everything was just right. When the dress was completed, it was absolutely stunning. We were so proud of the final product that we decided to make a sample of her dress named Mariem which is a combination of her mom's name (Mary Ann) and the bride's name (Em) to land on Mariem.

1. Why did you choose Elizabeth Lee?

I had already gone to several dress boutiques by the time I discovered Elizabeth Lee and was surprised at how little variety there was. I sought out large retailers with tons of designers but all the dresses just looked like a sea of clones. Nothing stuck out and I had a clear picture of what I wanted with zero luck. After more searching online, I came across Elizabeth Lee, the first designer that touted the option to customize any of their dresses or design your own couture gown. Assuming it would be out of my budget, I still made an appointment and was pleasantly surprised - this was MY kind of boutique! A stunning show room that feels special and has experts to answer every question and concern.

2. How was the process of choosing your dress and then picking it up? Why did you choose your dress? 

The process with Elizabeth Lee was exciting and special from beginning to end. At my first appointment, I found several gowns that had the features I was looking for in my dream dress. We discussed customizable options before moving to the fully custom option; I couldn't believe that it turned out to be within my budget so it was a no-brainer. We pulled patterns, styles, and color inspirations from dresses in the shop that together inspired my vision. A few weeks later I received a hand-drawn picture of what it would look like (something I'm glad I'll get to keep forever). 

The whole process took around 6-8 months and I got to choose everything from the lace pattern, sleeve details, beading, glitter, the dimensions of the keyhole back, neckline height, and layer materials. I'd get a text with pictures when another step in the process was complete that needed my approval which gave me the opportunity to make adjustments and ask questions. It was nerve-wracking to not see or touch my dress until it arrived but their update process kept my nerves at bay. I also appreciated their feedback when I just wanted an expert's opinion who had the experience to complement my vision. 

The day I received the picture of my finished product, I was in awe of my stunning gown. It couldn't have been more perfect. My dress fit like a glove and needed only one alteration. They also referred me to their alterations partner who did the most beautiful job on my bustles. They worked great together.

The most special thing about my dress was that I designed it all with my mother. We are very close and this was an opportunity to make a piece of art together that was more than just a dress. It created such a beautiful memory for us as a takeaway from planning my wedding together. I hope my daughter one day will get the opportunity to wear this timeless dress too. 

3. What's your favorite part of your wedding day? 

My favorite part of my wedding day was standing at the altar with my groom during the ceremony. It was a surreal and emotional experience that I specifically recall trying so hard to remember every single moment. Kent didn't break eye contact with me from the moment I walked down the aisle until we had our first kiss. And I'm so thankful for the Shutter and Sound videographers who caught the whole ceremony so we can relive the moment forever.

The custom piece we created for Emily was truly a work of art, and we're glad we could help bring her vision to life. We wish Emily all the best as she starts this new chapter in her life. Emily's story is a testament to the power of creativity and customization. It's important for brides to have the ability to create their dream dress and make it uniquely theirs. We're grateful to have been a part of Emily's journey, and we look forward to helping other brides create their one-of-a-kind dress.

XoXo,

Elizabeth Lee