This week Corinne and I are off to Maggie Sottero for a look at the Autumn 15 collection. Maggie Sottero are a label I have supported since their arrival in to the UK. My history with them goes back to the 90s & the radical introduction of the broad lace up backs, the side swept draping and the incredible sculpt & fit never before available at such affordable prices. They were nothing short of a revolution in the UK.
Less gratifying was their (now dropped) use of virtual Barbies in their campaign photos, piles of starchy blonde curls, creosote tans and heavy jewelry. So not Miss Bush…
I have relied on the impeccable taste and innate style of my own brides to carry the Maggie Sottero brand and give me the inspirational images to show brides to be the genius of the dresses. This has never been more ably demonstrated than by Laura who not only looks outstandingly beautiful, has a very handsome husband and could be a poster girl for Miss Bush, but also has got one of the most stylish weddings with a stellar group of suppliers.
One of the most divisive aspects of a classic Maggie Sottero dresses has always been the lace up corset back. It is bridal Marmite, some girls love it, some loathe it but it is the secret weapon that creates such an impeccable fit.
Laura fell for Presca the moment she tried it, both her Mum and her loved it but not unconditionally. It topped the list at Miss Bush but they went off to try other dresses in other shops before it drew them back for a second look. “What about the lacing? What can you do?” Here is where I introduced secret weapon number two, Laurie Smith. Laurie is Miss Bush’s head of production and a talented designer in her own right. I bought her in to discuss how a strapless lace up back dress could be a button back dress with sleeves.
Laurie designed and created a complete over top for the dress with classic rouleau loops and covered buttons teamed with a vintage pink, pure silk duchesse sash. This has heralded all the lace tees that are so abundant this season and moved the look on from shrugs and boleros.
After checking for huge grins and lots of love (big ticks here!) the next best thing about getting to see our brides photos is to check out all the styling and personal touches. Laura’s flowers are simply incredible. Bold, bright, mixed colours and blooms look natural and perfect in the rustic venue. Cripps Barn itself, whilst surrounded by beautiful countryside couldn’t be more chic and the mellow stone is a perfect back drop for the wedding
Stripes abound which I love, show me anything with spots or stripes and I am smitten. Stripes feature everywhere, from socks to ties to custom Cornishware. I also love the Vowed and Amazed lights. I have been following Vowed and Amazed since they began and they are the original name in lights company. I met and chatted to them at the Perfect Wedding Awards and the husband and wife team are just lovely.
Whilst the letters say Frost, Laura’s new surname, the socks and beer were from Hobsons , no relation but a great way to get Laura’s maiden name in!
Recently I was trying to explain to a slightly confused MOB why I have deliberately tried to make Miss Bush quieter with private appointments and a more consultative approach. Simply, wedding dress shopping is not best done in a crowded shop, under pressure & scrutiny from lots of other brides. Laura was fortunate that as a teacher she could take advantage of quiet school holiday days for appointments. In The Chapel I am trying to bring that same calm environment so a bride’s experience is not like a trolley dash and our expertise is readily available.
I got the loveliest letter from Laura, which I have shared a snippet of below, which could be my mission statement. And you thought wedding dress shopping was just about the dresses…
“Thank you, thank you thank you – and that doesn’t even come close to expressing my gratitude.
I walked down the aisle feeling the best I have ever felt and this in most part was down to the stunning dress, expertly altered and made to fit me. Though the bow became a little ‘four weddings’ by the end of the night, the sash was just another gorgeous feature.So thank you, not just for the most perfect wedding dress, but for the whole very special experience that went with it. “
View the Full Gallery
Suppliers
Photography: The Wedding Cut
The Dress: Maggie Sottero Presca Marie at Miss Bush
Make Up: Samantha Davies Make Up
Groom’s Suit: Gresham Blake
Bridesmaids: Coast
Venue: Cripps Barn, Cirencester
Flowers: Aqua Wedding & Event Flowers, Cirencester
Styling: Jessie Thomson Events
Magician: Darren Campbell Magic
Illuminated Letters: Vowed & Amazed
Stationery: Lucy Says I Do
See more of Laura’s and Barry’s Wedding over on the Brides Magazine website.
Emma Meek, MD of Miss Bush
Miss Bush is Surrey’s leading designer bridal shop
