I was looking for something light I could dance in. Had never been the one to imagine my wedding before it actually was in planning, so I took the time to try on a number of different styles. It was great fun gaining a better sense of what looks great on *me* (vs what looks good on models)

From a princess vibe…

To simple dresses that taught me to celebrate (and recognize the value of) good fabric and amazing draping.

To having fun just celebrating form fitting masterpieces, even though it was not the vibe I was going for.

To dresses whose cut and style I am now on the lookout for as they would be phenomenal event dresses...

When I tried on BHLDN’s dress, my sister Avril and my friend Alex who’d joined me on so many of these trips just knew this was a keeper.

I loved that the pattern was leaves not flowers, that it had an unencumbered vibe while still being form fitting. And at under $1k it was budget-friendly.

I did ask my local tailor to add a layer of the skirt to the front panel so it looked more like a one-piece.

And then the fun part was adding my own flair: from the getgo I was reticent to be married in white. Just so much “traditional” baggage that has been carried forward. And the rest of our wedding ceremony we had designed to fit to our multi-cultural and authentic selves. So the dress got a spin as well.

I love sunsets (and learned recently that the light at that time of day emits lithium, which is particularly positive-feeling inducing) and found that alcohol inks create just the dreamy effect I was hoping for.

Home- Ferch, just south of Berlin, Germany

photography credit goes to Ilana Natasha Photography

The effect is created with alcohol inks, which dilute the more isopropyl you use. I of course experimented on a safe piece of the hem before applying.

More on how we made the wedding weekend our own here