Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding - July/August 2020 (Issue 81)

N o one wants to be a fraught anxious bride, so it’s important to remember to make time for yourself and enjoy the journey. Getting organised early on eases the pressure and there’s an army of professionals in the region ready and willing to help. We speak to those in the know for their top tips to help you be the relaxed, radiant bride of your dreams... EYES ON All JANE’S TOP TIPS ❤ Wear your bridal underwear or similar when trying on dresses and take your wedding shoes too, or some the same height, to give you an idea of the proportions of the dress. ❤ Don’t forget designers and dressmakers are also available for consultations over social media such as Zoom. If you want something bespoke or have a family heirloom which requires some TLC or restyling, this may be another area to explore for a sustainable option with added sentimental value. ❤ If you’re getting married later in the year, why not complement your look with a cape or decorative jacket. ❤ Next year will see an extension of the 2020 palette with fabrics in clean shades of blue and pearl white alongside soft greens such as pale olive. Pale and pinky shades of mauve are another upcoming theme. 3D floral lace and embroidery will also continue to have a strong influence and lend themselves beautifully to many types of gown. FINDING THE ONE Once the dress is in the bag, everything else can flow from there, from the type of hairstyle you choose, the make-up, jewellery and accessories. Now that bridal boutiques are opening their doors again, brides-to-be will be able to get up close and personal with their fairytale gown. There will be safety precautions in place of course, in order to be COVID secure, but that doesn’t mean shopping for your dream dress can’t still be magical. Although you may not be able to take your whole bridal posse along, appointments can be made in advance, maybe bringing just one other person along with you, like a member of your household or close family initially. Check the requirements before you arrive to make sure you comply and go prepared with some idea of what you’re looking for and what’s in stock. First and foremost though, relax and enjoy the experience, friendly staff will be on hand as usual, ready and willing to help and share their wealth of knowledge! JANE BEAGRIE, FOUNDER AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF OLIVIA BEA DESIGNS (www.oliviabeadesigns.com) ad vises, “It’s important that you feel amazing on your special day, so choose a dress you’re comfortable with. Look for a style and colour that flatters your figure and skin type. Although white is still the most popular choice for wedding gowns your skin tone may suit ivory or pale shell pink. Don’t be afraid to try something a little different, it’s your day after all.” you LOOKING YOUR BEST 69