Donna Rae | Vendor Spotlight

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO CREATE YOUR BUSINESS?
It was always a dream of mine to become my own boss one day, and the bridal industry was absolutely perfect for me. 
Like most people, I simply adore weddings and everything bridal. Coupled with my passion for glamour, dressing up and being a hopeless romantic, Brides by Donna Rae was formed.

AKE US THROUGH A DAY IN THE LIFE OF YOUR BUSINESS
Saturdays are the busiest days of the week for us. Kay and I are always fully booked, running back to back bridal consultations to help our brides find their perfect dress. 
Our consultations are for approximately 90 minutes.  During this time, we will chat with our brides to see what they’re looking for, and work with their body shape and budget to find the perfect gown.
We have a beautiful private New York inspired bridal changing suite, where the brides’ family and friends can relax and enjoy all the glamour of our bridal consultation.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE BRIDAL TREND AT THE MOMENT?
Your wedding day is the only day of your life where you can over dress and get away with it J. What better way to do that than with a ruffle ball gown in a gorgeous baby pink shade.
I love the different shades that are coming through.  We seldom see brides picking plain ivory, but more ivory champagne, ivory gardenia, ivory petal or ivory mocha.  These rich tones allow the lace to pop and bring more drama to your dress.

OUR FAVOURITE WEDDING DRESS CURRENTLY INSTORE? 
I have so many favourite dresses…..For my body shape, Marlene by Award Winning Sophia Tolli would be my absolute favourite. This dress comes in a jaw dropping mocha colour which is a real show stopper.
Marlene has the drama of the frill skirt, which creates spectacular photos, and the added bonus of a corset back which creates an incredibly flattering silhouette. The added sparkle takes this dress to the next level.

nother favourite would be Sophia Tolli’s two-piece dress, Maeve. With the detachable over skirt, this dress has the drama for the ceremony and the sexy silhouette for the reception….simple stunning. 

ADVICE FOR BRIDES TO BE PLANNING THEIR BIG DAY?
Start looking for your wedding dress early, as your dress sets the tone and dictates the theme for the wedding.
Having your dress style and colour organised well in advance, can make planning your special day that much easier.  We advise our brides to start looking for a gown at least 12 months before their wedding.
Wedding gowns can take between 4-6 months to arrive.  You will also need time to accessorize your dress with veils and jewellery etc and have several fittings with your dressmaker.

ANY TIPS OR TRICKS YOU CAN OFFER BRIDES TO BE?
Go to the toilet before you put your dress on.
When going to the toilet in your wedding gown, instead of turning around to sit down in a tiny cubicle, walk straight in and straddle the toilet. This way you don’t have to lift up your train, only the front of your dress J
Allow yourself 30 minutes on your wedding day to get dressed.  A corset back and buttons are time consuming.  This also allows time for a few dozen squirts of rescue remedy and cheeky wee wine.

TV SHOW YOU WISHED WAS STILL ON AIR?
Young and the Restless, not that I have time to watch it J

HAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 18 YEAR OLD SELF
Start saving now so you can go on your OE….if you don’t do it while your young, you’ll  never get around to it.