Ginger’s mom came into town for the weekend and we headed to Wedding Belles, our favorite wedding shop in New Orleans. First, Ginger tried on five dresses that covered everything from long to cocktail length, and new to vintage (she brought in her own non-white, vintage Jenny Packham dress). We had been to this store three times before to try on dresses, so the consultants and owner were all excited to help us make a final decision. They were awesome, and made us feel totally comfortable and special.
Image via Amy Kuschel
The last dress she tried on was a Chantilly lace cocktail dress by Amy Kuschel. We were already leaning toward this dress. But after seeing it compared to the other dresses, it was so clearly perfect for her. I was unbelievably giddy. I just couldn’t stop smiling. She looked like her kick ass self just amped up a few notches. Ginger was just gorgeous in this dress. It seemed like me, her mom, and the consultants said “Done!” in unison, and just like that the wedding dress search was over. I don’t think any dress could be more her.
The lack of pictures is due to Ginger’s anxiety about dress shopping. Between ill fitting samples, bridal dress sizing, and the high expectations, who isn’t a little self conscious during this process. But, the consultants were so understanding and cool. Here’s a couple picture’s of the dress (which will be lengthened to her knee).
Image Via Amy Kuschel
It also doesn’t hurt that the dresses are made in the U.S.A. and the designer has done fundraisers for marriage equality. Definitely felt good about supporting her!
Image via Wedding Belles
Next, my future mother in law and I went to browse the stationery store that shares the space with the wedding shop. After looking at tons of save the date magnets on the internet, I thought my only options were boring or cheesy. But in a few minutes of looking at the store, I found a great vintage-y street card design that could be made into a magnet for us. I love that it’s a little throw back to our New Orleans home (famous for our streetcar on St. Charles Ave.), but also a little hint at our wedding destination, Baltimore, which also has a history with streetcars. If finding a wedding dress and a save the date wasn’t enough, we ordered a return address stamp with a fleur de lis motif, and our new shared last name (so exciting!).
Plus, I got a change to try on the dress I was thinking about for the city hall ceremony (the day before the wedding) and welcome dinner that night. It fit perfectly and Ginger and I loved it, and so I ordered that too. When the shop owner offered us some procesco, I started to think this was the way to do wedding stuff- great people, great store, and a glass of bubbly. To top it off, they had a 20% sale on wedding dresses this month, so we got a good deal. I can’t believe we accomplished so many wedding tasks so easily; it was the perfect morning.
Image via Jenny Yoo
Both dresses are so beautiful!
YAY! An Amy Kuschel dress! Amy is a close family friend. In fact, she was the only non-immediate family member who attended our legal ceremony, which preceded our wedding. Know that not only will your dress will be beautiful, but the designer who slaved over the pattern supports your right to marry (and aside from that, is super fabulous).
AND a Jenny Yoo dress! Totally love with Yoo’s designs (both of my wedding dresses are by her!) Sounds like an utterly fabulous morning in New Orleans!
Gorgeous dresses- and it sounds like you all had a fabulous time. What great luck!
I LOVE the back of that first dress!
Both dresses are so beautiful! That lace is amazing!