Meeting The Designer

Both fiancé and I met the designer for the first time on Saturday, last week.

I shall not reveal the designer's name because everything is not confirmed yet. Once it does, I will tell, ok?

Our appointment was supposed to be at 12 noon but due to unforeseen circumstances, *cough* bangun lambat *cough* it was postponed to 1.30pm. I bought along few print outs and inspiration pictures for my dress(es). We had to wait for few minutes because she had another appointment with one of her client *cough* Aishah Sinclair *cough*. Unfortunately we didn't bump into her. Massive disappointment.

We had a small chat and I showed the the pictures and explained how I envisioned my dress(es) to be. She jotted down the necessary info and give some feedbacks.

Initially I wanted the bottom part of the dress to be pleated. I have a "thing" for anything panel and pleated. Oh, and cutesy Peter Pan collar. But she advice me not to do the pleated bottom thingy as it will not turned out as flowy as I like it to be. It seems to me that she can read my mind! Not even once I mentioned that I want the bottom to be flowy. So no pleated bottom for me.

She will get back to me with the quotation, the proposed fabrics and sketches of the dresses (and veils!) by end of April or early May so I guess until then I just have to wait. But she assures me that the total price won't exceed 1.5k. Well, that's a relieved.

Some tips from her that I'd like to share:

• If you're planning on hiring a designer to do your wedding dress(es). Please don't buy the fabrics beforehand. Some designers much prefer if they buy and use their own material. Sometimes the material you buy is not that suitable for the design that your heart's desire. In certain cases, the fabrics would be a waste if the designer refuses to use it. Another reason being, not all design or style use 4 meters of fabrics. Some only use 1-2 meters only e.g. lace.
• If you have not buy the fabrics yet, discuss your preference and let them buy it for you. Designer can get the same fabrics at a much discounted price than we usually can get.
• Always plan your time well. The ideal time to start meeting and discussing the design or sending fabrics to tailor is 5-7 months before the wedding. Ours is 8 months. A tad too early, I know but I can't help it. *Bridezilla alert*
• Always come prepared. Know what you want beforehand is a plus. Designer can't read your mind. If you cannot convey your vision through sketching, bring photos of your dream dress.
  
• Don't afraid to ask of what they think. Sometimes they do know better than you. Or what suits you the best.
• If you want dresses other than in white, it helps to bring the desired colour palette.
  
• Do not waste your money buying solstiss lace that costs your arms and legs. French lace is cheaper and beads can be sewed onto it. Besides, solstiss lace is difficult to cut and sew as the beads will interfere. It takes longer time for the designer to do your dress. Longer time = higher labour cost, hence you'll be charged more.
  

Oh, I can't wait to see the sketches!! I do hope that she can deliver exactly what I want.

P/s: Have you seen Hunny Madu's wedding dresses? Psst, the designer did all Hunny's and her bridesmaids' dresses.