Terra + Bryce

I had such a great time working with Terra altering her $99 department store dress into something oh-so-wedding-special!  Although I do also alter existing gowns like hers, I always like to modify them in unique, style enhancing ways beyond just the perfect fit.  Terra blogged about the gown-alterations process, tidbits of which I have included below. Her wedding included some awesome one-of-a-kind hand-crafted details, and serves as fun inspiration for DIY brides.

“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.

Posted in Bridesmaids, Eco Affair, handmade wedding dress, Inspiration, Random, Real Weddings, Vendors, Wedding Decor | Tagged , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

Cary’s Surprise Purple Dress Petticoat

Cary Miller (now McAllister) is a petite red bombshell of energy and fun. “You may have seen Cary starring in Peter Pan as Peter Pan or Aaron conducting an orchestra in New York where they currently live so I’m going to go ahead an claim celebrity wedding photographer status! =) “- From the couple’s Wedding  Photographer, Heather Brulez.

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!

Posted in Accessories, Accessories & Headpieces, Bridesmaids, Inspiration, Real Weddings | Tagged , , , | 5 Comments

Real Wedding Inspiration: Red, Black & Ruffle Mermaid Gown

Tiffany’s gown was custom made to flatter, using the ruffles from her friend’s 80′s prom dress! We found perfectly matching swiss dot tulle to overlay over textured taffeta to work in the textured lace of the skirt.  I love the contrast of the red, black and ivory in her wedding! She is also wearing red heels and a red and black custom feather fascinator with black birdcage netting… a twist on a classic look!


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

Posted in Accessories, Accessories & Headpieces, handmade wedding dress, Real Weddings, wedding dress design | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 7 Comments

Janay A Aster Gown is Cover of KC Weddings!!

Janay A Cover KC Weddings

We are just delighted to be featured on the just launched Fall/Winter 2011 cover of KC Weddings!!!

The Eco Silk/Hemp”Aster” gown is perfectly matched with the 1940′s vintage straw hat from ReRuns ($45), Hair and makeup by Becky Weir, Micale Molathaus, an Zholie Stiff (OMG I LOVE HER NAME!!!) of A Shear Thing.

Posted in Eco Affair, handmade wedding dress, New Design, Random, Uncategorized, wedding dress design | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Nicole + Paul- Her Gown- Lace Trimmed, Classic Vintage Styled.

I had the pleasure of designing Nicole (Bodkin) LaPenna’s dress with extra sweet and vintage inspired styling.  This Columbia, MO bride wanted a classic gown, but with a high neckline and dramatic open  lace back.

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!?!

Posted in Bridesmaids, handmade wedding dress, New Design, Real Weddings, studio, wedding dress design | Tagged , , , , , , | 2 Comments