A marriage proposal is a romantic gesture where you ask the love of your life to spend forever with you, and equally so, asking your best gal pal to be your maid of honour or bridesmaid is in many ways a declaration of friendship.

Not only are the girls standing by your side going to be her strength and sanity on the special day, to many brides they are also the backbone and support whilst planning and preparing.

Quite frankly, bridesmaids dedicate their lives over the last few weeks leading up to the wedding listening to all of the last-minute stress. You’ll bear witness to breakdowns over the small details, hold the bride’s hand through the stress of planning and booking vendors, and inevitably cry when she finally says ‘Yes!’ to the dress.

Remind her it’s easy and quite natural to get caught up in the scheduling, timing and stress that planning such a big and memorable day holds.

Remind her at the end of the day it is all about her and her partner.

Remind her everyone they love is celebrating alongside them as they embark on one of their greatest adventures yet.

Above all, remember how much fun this day is going to be for all of you. As her bridesmaids, you can let your heart be full in the knowledge that you are one of her treasured few. The bride may have her rock, but more importantly, she’ll always need her flock.

Images by Kate Robinson, Words by Verity Dwan

Bridal gowns: White Lily Couture | Photography: Kate Robinson | Venue: Tetto Rooftop Bar | Hair + makeup: Sunshine Brides | Flowers: New England Flower Co. | Bridesmaid gowns: Runway Scout  | Models: Amelia, Emma, Gillian, Sophia

Thanks for supporting our A-list Vendors, who know the love between a bride and her bridesmaids…

The post An Open Letter to Bridesmaids appeared first on The Bride's Tree.

With the New Year looming, now is the time to get the jump on bridal shopping for your 2019 wedding. 

So how do you find ‘the one’ without breaking the bank? A sample sale is the perfect opportunity to save some serious moolah on your dream dress. Most bridal stores will have at least one a year, where they sell off end-of-season store samples, stock gowns and accessories. 

Sample sales can be tricky to navigate in the world of bridal, as most people don’t really know what to look for and how to prepare. Here we’ve put together our top tips for finding your wedding dress at a sample sale with minimal tears and maximum results!

Do your research on the brand

Once you’ve honed in on an upcoming bridal sale, start by having a look through their website and social media channels. Does the brand suit your style and your wedding theme? 

Trawl through the gowns on their site and save photos of styles you love. You never know what might be included in the sale on the day. Make sure you are familiar with the gowns you particularly have your eye on, so you can make a beeline for them when doors open on the day. 

Have a game plan

Take time to do a little bridal shopping prior to sale day, so you know what suits you – your body shape, skin tone and personal style. Often what looks good in a photo or on the hanger will look very different on you, so keep an open mind while doing so. 

Once you hit sample sale day, you will already have an idea of what will work and what won’t, based on what you’ve tried before – saving you precious time amongst the frenzy!

Wear the right undergarments

Nothing will kill your dream dress vibe faster than black, too-tight underwear. Opt for nude seamless underwear and a strapless bra (however, you may not need a bra at all with most gowns). If you feel like you might need spanx, we suggest bringing them in your bag. Some dresses won’t require shapewear, so it is easiest to add later. 

Keep your squad small

Don’t add extra stress to an already hectic situation by bringing five of your closest gal pals. Too many opinions can become overwhelming – especially when you add a wee bit of time pressure to the mix! Try and stick to just one or two guests whose opinions you value most.

On the flipside, if the most important people in your life are unavailable on the day, don’t hesitate to FaceTime them while you’re there for a little extra support. 

Arrive early

A good sample sale will often bring out some hard-core shoppers. If you know what you want, make sure you show up early to secure a good spot in the line-up. Often there will be only one sample of each, so get in quickly to make sure you don’t miss out. 

Know your budget

Bridal sample sales often require full payment in order to secure the dress. Know how much you are willing to spend on the day and how flexible you can be. Also factor in the potential cost of alterations and dry cleaning while you are bargain hunting. Expect to add $250-$750 onto the gown cost for adjustments depending on what you want to alter. Be ready to splash out the cash if you find ‘the one.’

Don’t stress if the fit isn’t quite right

On the topic of alterations – don’t worry too much if the dress is not a perfect fit. A good seamstress will be able to take in, hem, add cups, a bustle or potentially let out a little (depending on the dress) to get that perfect fit. Be sure to ask such questions of the staff if you find a dress you love. 

Look for imperfections

Before saying “Yes” to your dress, look over the gown for pulled threads, stains and missing beading or buttons. As ex-samples, these gowns will not be in perfect condition, so it is important to know what needs to be fixed. Often these can be cleaned or mended, however, some things may not be so easily resolved

Don’t hesitate to walk away if it isn’t the one. 

As one of the most important purchases of your life, it is so important to make sure you are 100% on your decision – particularly if the store has a no refund/exchange policy. If you are having second thoughts, don’t be afraid to walk away from the dress. If you know you would be devastated if someone else bought your dress, maybe it’s the one? 

If you think you’re ready to hit the streets with your new-found knowledge, we suggest you head to the White Lily Couture Annual Sample Sale on Saturday 24 November. With over 250 gowns on sale to choose from, you won’t be lacking for options!

The post Our Top Tips for Shopping a Sample Sale  appeared first on The Bride's Tree.

We recently had the pleasure of attending Judy Copley Bridal‘s first runway show. Ethereal Romance was the name of the bridal runway show that left all of us spectators in awe. It was truly an experience to behold from start to finish. 30 models took to the runway in Judy’s unique designs. 

From billowing pure white gowns with intricate lace bodices and sleek silhouettes with sparkle to head-turning black numbers with tulle and feathers, the show had it all. 

Luckily for those of you who were unable to attend, Karen Buckle was there to capture the highlights. Take a peek through Judy’s latest collection, and prepare to be dazzled.  

Photography: Karen Buckle | Location: Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort | Fashion: Judy Copley Bridal | Hair: Evalyn Parsons | Makeup: Jenna Turner Makeup Artistry, Boudoir Blush Beauty & Makeup, Sian Howard Makeup Artist | Florals: Heavenly Blooms 

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Get ready to lust to an unnatural degree after Israeli designer Limor Rosen‘s 2018 collection, the Free Spirit Collection. 

This bridal gown collection embodies feelings of femininity and power, through the bohemian glamor style. Incorporating strong geometric and gentle floral fabrics combined with effortless tulles and silk chiffons, creating a desirable, carefree elegant collection.

About the designer

From their flagship studio in Tel Aviv, Limor Rosen‘s team create feminine graceful designs. They use comfortable meticulous patterns, carefully selected fabrics, and uncompromising sewing. All these are implemented in creative work that pays attention to every small detail of the garment.

Photographer: Alex Lipkin | Model: Hania Koczewska / Daniel K | Hair: Benjamin Ruimi | Make up: Shelly Gafni

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When Australian-based, internationally celebrated bridal designer, Anna Campbell, releases a new collection, we can easily lose hours oggling the pretty. This time is no exception. Our hearts racing, cups of tea and cone of silence ensue. 

The 2018 Eternal Heart collection is a celebration of all things sparkly, sexy and romantic. The release will coincide with Anna Campbell’s 10-year anniversary. 

Sunshine Coast brides have long been donning Campbell’s wedding dresses. Shimmering sleek silhouettes in light flowing fabrics are a match made in heaven with our Queensland climate. 

From intricate, shimmering hand-beading and shoulder loops to guipure lace back details, this is a collection we will be obsessing over for some time yet! 

Blake dress 

  Adele dress

Sydney dress

 Alyssa dress

Grace dress

 Ruby dress

 Harlow dress

Bridal gowns + accessories: Anna Campbell | Hair and Makeup: @sharonbeckerbeauty | Shoes | @bellabelleshoes | Flowers | @flowergirlnyc

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Judy Copley Couture from Jensen & Young on Vimeo.

When we first met Judy Copley, the woman behind Judy Copley Couture, we were stunned by two things: First, her magical bridal gowns that sat in various states of completion in her home studio, which could only be described as a creative feat of epic proportions obviously crafted with the utmost love and care. Second the humble woman who sat before us was the sweetest, most genuine and delightful human being we had ever had the pleasure of meeting. 

Five years on we have seen much growth from Judy in her brand with wild success and the addition of accessories and robes to her designs, but absolutely no variation from that wonderfully kind nature we encountered on Day One. 

Having moved on from working from home, she now designs her gowns in a sprawling studio filled with cutting tables and mannequins, living the dream of a designer with celebrity commissions, awards and international shows. 

Much of her success is attributed to her untamed approach to design. She works with her clients to come up with an actual real life dream, not allowing for any limitations. 

Judy Copley isn’t following any rules in garment creation. She’s just allowing herself to shine, and that in itself is as beautiful as her coveted gowns. You can see this clearly in the film above by Jensen & Young. 

The post Meet Judy Copley Couture | A Film by Jensen & Young appeared first on The Bride's Tree.

The highly acclaimed Nicole Spose bridal range is coming to Queensland for the first time

next week as Brisbane bridal boutique White Lily Couture hosts a trunk show for the Italian designer.

From October 29 to November 5 Brisbane brides can view never before seen gowns and

purchase them at 20% off ahead of the Nicole collection release in December.

Founded in 1996 by Alessandra Rinaudo, the Milan-based label has become renowned

globally for making brides dreams come true with a magic fit. The Nicole range comprises of

sumptuous French lace, luxurious Italian silk and fine embroidery in universally flattering

cuts.

The Nicole, Jolies and Aurora collections will be on show and available to order in this exclusive trunk

show event. 

Don’t miss out on this Queensland exclusive, to view the range for yourself call 07 3367 8870 or book online.

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In another stunning bridal fashion feat, our gals from Brisbane bridal boutique White Lily Couture put together a pretty little shoot  to show off some of their fave bridal gowns that were destined for an elegant affair in the country.

This shoot follows on from their recent Villa on the Beach shoot, so make sure you check that one out, too! Because let’s face it, we can always do with another dose of wedding fashion, am I right? More wedding dresses, yes? Of course, silly question! 

 Images by Capture the Moment Photography. 

  The girls wear ‘Indore‘ by Enzoani, ‘Jayde‘ by Enzoani, ‘Electra‘ ball gown by Ronald Joyce & Victoria Lane

Gowns White Lily Couture | Photography Capture the Moment Photography | Hair and makeup Wink For Hair  | Florist Jess Mauger  | Cake Coco Jo | Stylist The Wedding  Mill 

Thank you for supporting our A-List Vendors, who made this shoot happen… 

Learn more about… Capture the Moment Photography + White Lily Couture

The post Bridal Gowns in the Country | Brisbane Bridal Boutique appeared first on The Bride's Tree.

We know many of you beautiful brides visiting us are based in Brisbane, where it just so happens one of the best bridal boutiques in Queensland resides. White Lily Couture is where many a bride says yes to the dress, what with labels like Enzoani, Pronovias Barcelona, Augusta Jones and Ronald Joyce UK on offer, it’s no wonder. 

The gals at Brisbane bridal boutique White Lily Couture treated a few of their fave dresses to a trip to The Villa on the Beach, and all they asked in return is for them to star in this gorgeous shoot, which was photographed by Capture the Moment Photography. 

 ‘Electra’ ball gown bridal dress by Ronald Joyce & Victoria Lane 

   The Goddess Signature Collection bridesmaid dresses. 

Gowns White Lily Couture | Photography Capture the Moment Photography | Hair and makeup Wink For Hair  | Florist Jess Mauger  | Cake Coco Jo | Stylist The Wedding  Mill | Venue The Villa on the Beach

Thank you for supporting our A-List Vendors, who made this shoot happen… 

Learn more about… Capture the Moment Photography + White Lily Couture

The post Bridal Gowns by the Beach | Brisbane Bridal Boutique appeared first on The Bride's Tree.

In my humble opinion, a joyous day is one filled with delicate lace, fluffy tulle and silk covered buttons adorning pretty long sleeves in a bridal fashion foray. The exceptional beauty before you is a collection of couture bridal gowns by Sunshine Coast-based designer Erin Clare Couture, who has hit the world stage with her designs. As I type, Erin and her wedding dresses have travelled to California to hold trunk shows at exclusive LA bridal boutiques. 

Before she hit the skies, Erin got together with a team of Sunshine Coast wedding pros to put together this bridal fashion shoot, which feels, to me, the epitome of the Australian bride. It’s high end, yet relaxed in a contemporary way that is the very model of modern elegance. 

These stunning images were captured by one of our faves, Jennifer Oliphant. 

Try to not feel elated when you gaze upon this goodness. Try and blissfully fail, my fine friends. 

Photography: Jennifer Oliphant Photographer | Gowns: Erin Clare Couture | Hair & Makeup: Silk Hair & Makeup | Flowers: Blooms of Noosa | Models: Abbey & Katie

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR A-LIST VENDORS, WHO CONTRIBUTED TO MAKING THIS SHOOT HAPPEN…

Learn more about Jennifer Oliphant Photographer + Erin Clare Couture

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