Change in the Air - Summer's End

Lots of change comes about this time of year. There's an almost mechanical end to summer that comes when back to school shopping begins. In Florida it's in the high 90's with crazy humidity, but for buyers, it's a time to move on to fall.

For my shop and business plans the season 'change' has brought a couple of changes that are 'huge' to me. First of all, I got a camera. A real DSLR type camera which I'm struggling to learn to use proficiently. Fall plans involve a photoshoot with real model(s) and I'm gearing up for that. I got a table for cutting out designs so I  can go forward with my limited edition gowns. So far I've only made one of a kind designs with a few custom gowns I've created in a similar style by request. I'm looking to make a limited number of each new design as it's created, probably retiring the designs as they are replaced by new ones.

I still plan on creating one of a kind gowns, but they will not be the main focus. I'm also getting set to create some limited edition fashion too, though it will be along later than the wedding designs.

Another big change for my shop is a new mannequin. She will help me model the pixie hemlines that don't show as well on many gowns. What I specifically wanted her for was accessories. I've been dreaming of making veils and fascinators along with other bridal things like cuffs, garters, lingerie and chokers. Sleeves on long sleeve gowns will finally be a possibility too, adding more designs to the fall and winter wedding options along with the shrugs and crop bolero jackets I'm already making. I'm even hoping to use her to show off swimwear, which is one of those things I'm considering in the resort wear and lingerie category. So far I've limited those designs since they are not workable on a dress form.

Excitement is in the air...and change. Feels like a fun fall !

Kickin Back Time

It's July here and tres hot ! I confess to a bit of burnout and wanting to just put my feet up and dream a little. I'm making plans to feature a few made to order designs beyond my two island gowns that I love. Right now I've been working through the details of these new designs and admittedly not working too hard :)

I like to take a few weeks to ponder fashion trends, think about what I want to pursue and design inspirations like nature, movies and stories and people. I'm trying to decide if a simplified line would work for my designs. I love embellishment, but I know there are lots of people that want a simpler look with just a light touch of whimsy.

So I'm playing with ideas and thinking through things. Not so exciting, but a needed break from full on production keeps me sane ! I also am working on retaking a few photos.

I'm also working on a photoshoot that's upcoming and trying to brush up on my photography skills in case I'm the photographer :)

I'll need to update from my newer point and shoot (which I've never quite been excited about) to a full DSLR and learn the ropes. Hoping that by the time the temps moderate a bit outdoors I will be ready !

Meanwhile, I've made a few gowns in my normal, one of a kind inspirations style. Hope you like them !! Have a fun summer and don't forget to get wet  !

  

Real Weddings - Romantic Boho Weddings

I love it when I hear back from a buyer, sometimes many months later, and get to see the gowns I've made at their real weddings. One photo or a handful, I always smile and relive the process of making the gown, all the emails back and forth and the fun of getting to know the bride. Thought I'd make a little mini-series of real wedding shots.

These are from Clint and Amy's wedding last year. The photographer is Bess DuPriest.