Your trellis

My grandmother lived in a city with its generous share of asphalt, but she did have beautiful backyard albeit what some might say a "postage stamp" size. I always loved her lush, green yard that was tucked between mature oak trees and a cement block garage. The view above was dotted with porches from two decked, family homes. Amidst these urban reminders was an old, painted trellis in her yard with climbing rose vines. The light, pink roses bloomed in late June with gradual petal drop throughout the summer. The end result was a carpet of rose petals beneath the trellis. That image lead my imagination to believe there was a wedding in her backyard. The bride and groom took their vows under the trellis and walked over the rose petals as husband and wife. The bride wore an exquisite gown that floated over the blush petals upon her exit. That trellis became so much more than a pretty accent to a yard. Though I may have been unaware, my future wedding planning had commenced.

Strapless ball gown by Enzoani

As a stylist whose charge is to find the perfect wedding gown for brides, I always consider the "trellis" that is unique to each client. Perhaps a bride didn't have the actual trellis experience I did, but wedding imagery and inspiration is most definitely stored in the mind of every bride. The challenge is to elicit and combine those dreamy thoughts with a flattering, dynamic gown. When the wedding gown nods to the dream and makes you feel spectacular, that is the dress for you!

Illusion neck column gown by Rosa Clara

It is very common to be completely unaware of your "trellis" thoughts and/or equally common to choose a gown that is not what you initially planned. You go to a bridal boutique with a notion of ballerina tulle on a dramatic ball gown skirt as pictured above, but you choose a gown like the exquisite Rosa Clara soft column silhouette. The whisper of tulle is still present and should be, but the shape and fit of the gown enhance the body more so than the ball gown.

Allow your stylist to guide you toward the gown that works for you, but in doing so don't surrender your "trellis" that has been with you all your life. Being a bride gives you the opportunity to wear a garment that shows who you are as an individual today, with a glimpse of your dreams too. Don't ignore the voice that says "I've always wanted...", because you're not dreaming anymore.