Photos by Scott Cowan

“i felt immediately comfortable with janay. i showed her the dress and we sat together coming up with ideas. she was on the same page as me and all the anxiety was gone. Together we decided to add a tulle skirt under the dress, for some volume….She also suggested putting a tulle overlay on the skirt to tone down the flowers and to finish all up she would add a sash and bow. but not a typical bow. she showed me some photos and i was sold. we decided to do the tulle, sash and bow in champagne…”

Terra’s bridesmaids each wore unique dresses, but all carried the same multicolored bouquet to tie it all together.

Bryce and his groomsmen, all dressed in different shirts, ties, and pants.  I love these unique head-down shots, and beer instead of bouquets as the man accessory just seems fitting.

The crafty couple took vintage bedsheets are tore them into strips, then tied them together to decorate the tent.  Such a fun, festive look- and I love that it hides the “plumbing” that can be so unattractive.

“day of i put it on and knew it was perfect. and it never failed me. i felt beautiful and original and comfortable in it all night. i really do wish i could wear it again. i have gotten tons of compliments, so thanks janay!!!”i think a lot of people overlook custom-made dresses, thinking it is too expensive, but i would urge anyone to check out janay a. handmade. she will make you feel like you, just you on your wedding day.”

Terra’s Blog post about the dress process, here.

Tim F. with Cornerstone Photography KC”

Photographers Blog, here.

In addition to altering her Nolte’s gown, I added a custom dyed tulle underskirt,  lending a fun surprise pop of color and yet another quirky detail to her stylish wedding.   I can’t resist sharing sampling of my favorite images below… Not pictured is the flowergirl in her matching gown with purple tulle also!

Photos by Zach & Sarah Trover, Flowers by Lori Patton.

When using lace, I love it when the lace element is tied into a few places on the design for cohesiveness. So, we decide to use the lace on the neckline and for the waist accent, as well as on the hem.   And it finishes with a sweet satin ribbon and bow in back.  Doesn’t she look lovely!?!

Her gown was handmade from an heirloom vintage gown, which has been completely redone to add the sash, bubble hem, straps, and new neck and back lines.  She’s also wearing a handmade lace hair flower, the perfect whimsical accent.

Photos by Ailecia Ruscin, Christopher Good, Marian Nguyen.

I so enjoyed creating a unique custom maids dress for each of Mary Taylor Birkel’s ladies in waiting. They were such a delight to work with- yay for bridesmaids having their own dress designed!

*Tip: for overall cohesiveness, choose the same fabric (texture and color) for the maids dresses if they are each wearing something unique.  Otherwise, you’ll end up with a chaotic look to your wedding party.

Jessica (Hylan) Warlick was such a beautiful and fun bride!  She wore an original Janay A Handmade handmade striped velvour burnout dress (this fabric is is sheer in between the striped and was lined in a flesh colored soft jersey).  Paying homage to her japanese heritage, a kimono inspired silk-chiffon belt, that is detailed with vintage lace appliques from her man’s grandmothers 1947 wedding gown.  Sweet!

Birdcage/Fascinator hairpiece coordinates with the sash in fresh peach and wine colored japanese silk flowers, beaded with vintage pearls and crystal, with natural champagne feather accent.

Photos by Marcella McMurray.

Asia, who has an Alpaca Farm in Kansas, was an awesome bride to work with!

She had a small private wedding in GREECE and a big party in KC!

Photos By Glow Imagery

I absolutely LOVE my brides, so unique & beautiful!  I couldn’t ask for a better canvas to display my work.

And just in case you didn’t notice, here’s a closeup of Asia’s awesome tattoo!

Married at the bride’s grandparents farm in Lonejack, MO, Sean and Ashley’s wedding was sweet and special.  Not daunted by off again on again sprinkles that were a ‘brewin, guests danced away to an old time bluegrass band, warmed themselves by the bonfire, and drank special lemonade concoctions from mason jars.

Morgan Ashley’s dress was created from a vintage gown, redesigned with a new bodice using organic cotton and lace from an heirloom tablecloth.

… More pics and touching details from this amazing wedding coming soon!