First Look At My Custom Raquel Couture Wedding Dress
Finding a good dressmaker is difficult, but finding one who understands your vision completely and cares about the final result is rare. My friend, Liz Savetsky of Excessories Expert, introduced me to the most talented designer, Raquel of Raquel Couture. The moment I met Raquel, I knew it was the perfect match. I showed her the inspiration behind my wedding gown and as I spoke about it, she sketched it out. It was as if Raquel turned my mental picture into a tangible one.
If there’s a time to go custom, it’s definitely for your wedding dress, because my gown wasn’t just beautiful, it fit me perfectly. It was made for me and everyone could tell. There wasn’t a single person at my wedding who complimented me on my dress that didn’t ask me if I got it made. My dress was truly a work of art and Raquel did not overlook a single detail of my vision, from the buttons on the sleeves to the intricate beading along the front and back.
Raquel Couture is located in Brooklyn, a short walk from the train, and it became my little city getaway every time I would go in for fittings. It was amazing watching each layer of my dress be created. The lining turned into a plain dress which turned into an actual gown which was built up with lace sleeves and a long removable tulle train. Raquel was there every step of the way with design recommendations and ideas to make my dress even better. Her expertise was obvious and I felt so comfortable knowing that a professional was making my wedding gown.
During our first meeting, Raquel walked me through her showroom, letting me feel different laces and figure out my favorite beading style. She even helped me choose the right shade of white that would best complement my skin. We went for diamond white in a gorgeous French lace. I wanted sheer lace sleeves under a mermaid bodice with a sweetheart top and Raquel worked with me until we got the perfect neckline, the perfect sweetheart shape, and the perfect mermaid silhouette. No request was too big or detail too small.
I knew I never wanted to wear a ballgown at my wedding, but a part of me still wanted that “princess moment” where the bride is swallowed in tulle and a long train. That’s why I decided to add a removable tulle train. I loved having my train flow behind me as I walked down the aisle and it made for some gorgeous photos. Raquel added lace along the top of the skirt so that it blended into my gown and looked like it was attached. When I took it off for dancing, it was as if I did a complete outfit change into my mermaid gown. I’m so happy I opted for a fitted dress for the dancing and reception because I was able to move easily and I felt confident wearing my favorite dress style, but I’m also ecstatic that I didn’t give up my dream to wear a long train down the aisle. I got the best of both worlds and I owe it all to Raquel.
Designing a dress isn’t easy, but Raquel made the entire process seamless. If I wasn’t sure about anything, she showed me my options and gave me her professional opinion. I’ve worked with other dressmakers who sew whatever you tell them to, but they never stop and think about what will enhance your design or if the fabric is even meant for the style you chose. Raquel’s design background had her thinking steps ahead to ensure that my dress was as good as it gets, from the hand-sewn beading along the front and back to the invisible belt that held my train in place. Raquel was a dream to work with and I recommend her wholeheartedly for all your dressmaking needs.
Check out Raquel Couture.
xx Esther
