Anna Schimmel - European Bridal Designer

One of the main features of your wedding is your wedding gown. It will stay in everyone's memory and be a focal point in your photographs to be admired for generations. When choosing your wedding gown you may wonder whether to buy one off the rack or have one made. Very few of us are standard sizes from head to toe, not mentioning height or proportions. Having a wedding gown made for you will show off your best features and make the most of your figure. Look stunning by having a wedding gown made to flatter you, make a statement about your personality and be special!

• 1. Make a Start

  Now that you are engaged you will start thinking about your dream wedding gown. Browsing websites and magazines, you can view a wide range of beautiful designer wedding gowns. Good designers have a distinctive look identifying their work. As you do your research one will stand out and catch your eye. Make sure they are established, have a good reputation and excellent craftsmanship. Contact your favourite designer and make an appointment.

• 2. Design Process

  Most designers charge a refundable consultation fee for a comprehensive appointment. In our studio Anna will consult personally with each client. It is good to have an open mind, or if you envisage a certain style make sure you bring along a scrapbook. Give yourself plenty of time as your wedding gown should be booked six months before your wedding or earlier if you marry during high season.

• 3. Calico Toile

  A good designer will draft an individual pattern for each bride and trial it through a calico toile. Calico is not the most flattering fabric and a new style takes time to develop. So your first fitting may be rather unexciting. This appointment may take up to an hour but at the end of it your wedding gown should start taking shape. Now is the time to look for shoes. It might take a while to find your perfect pair.

• 4. Wedding Gown Fittings

  Depending on many variables there may be two to six fittings but you should see noticeable progress with every fitting. Occasionally a second calico may be needed, the lining will be tried, then the outer layer. New styles or drapes often take a bit more work to perfect. We accommodate clients from out of town and offer to cut the number of wedding gown fittings to the absolute minimum.

• 5. It's Finished!

  When you come to pick up your wedding gown you should definitely try it on once more. A well-made designer wedding gown won't ride up or slip down when you move, won't pinch, is superbly crafted and comfortable. Have you tried sitting down in it? Check the length, it should sit just above the tip of the shoe so you don't step on it when walking. Be prepared, it can be quite an emotional moment when you put on your now finished wedding gown.

• 6. After the Wedding

  Your wedding gown was much admired on your wedding day and may be in need of a clean and some TLC. Take it to a reputable dry cleaner soon after your wedding as stains settle and become harder to remove. Have the wedding gown wrapped in acid free tissue paper and boxed for long term storage. Or put your beautiful wedding dress on display and have it specially framed.

• 7. And finally...

  Fantastic styling, the use of exquisite fabrics, immaculate craftsmanship and great skill are all elements of a gorgeous wedding gown but a talented designer will give it that little bit extra. So when choosing your wedding gown designer remember that a truly beautiful wedding gown needs that extra magic to bring it to life.