It’s funny how life can surprise you. I had no idea when I was planning my wedding 15 years ago that I would fall in love for a second time - this time, with creating handmade bridal accessories.
Like many brides, I wanted everything to be perfect. When I couldn’t find the bridal headpieces and accessories I dreamed of, I decided to take matters into my own hands and design them myself. Little did I know, this one creative decision would spark a passion that would change my life—and launch my career as a bridal accessory designer.
In 2009, most brides were wearing tiaras and veils, but neither felt right for me. When I tried on a veil, it gave me the giggles, which wasn’t the elegant vibe I wanted! My gown, from the Spanish designer Pronovias, was adorned with Swarovski crystals, pearls, and lace appliqués, so I decided on a flamenco-style low bun for my hairstyle to match the Spanish influence of the gown. I wanted a custom hair vine to sit perfectly above the bun and reflect the details of my gown. When I couldn’t find what I was looking for, I made my own! That hair vine pulled my whole look together and made me feel like the best version of myself.
I also struggled to find a bridal bouquet that worked with my unique oyster coloured gown. The floristry options back then weren’t as varied as they are today, so I decided to create my own vintage jewellery bouquet made from sentimental pieces of jewellery, buttons, pearls, and crystals. This included pearls from my mum’s wedding dress, silver buttons from my dad’s RAF uniform, a pearl ring that belonged to my grandmother, and my something blue - my late grandfather’s war medal. My handmade bouquet not only completed my look but made my walk down the aisle even more meaningful and my guests loved looking at all the sentimental elements in it!
After our wedding, I couldn’t stop creating. I had so many ideas for more wedding accessories and began to experiment with bridal headpieces, bridal hair combs, jewellery bouquets and handmade jewellery. Soon, I had a growing collection of designs but no plan for what to do with them. A friend suggested listing them on Etsy, which had just started to gain popularity in the UK.
Setting up an Etsy shop seemed like the perfect solution. Within weeks, I made my first sale, and shortly after, brides began reaching out to request custom designs. At the time, Etsy was still primarily a US platform, so I was shipping mostly to American brides. But my husband gave me a Christmas gift that changed everything—a domain name and website package! By Boxing Day, I had created my own website and officially launched my bridal accessories business.
Before I knew it, I was selling and hand-making accessories for brides in the UK, USA, and beyond. With no formal background in fashion, design, or business, I took the leap and quit my day job as a news editor to pursue my passion full time. I set up a workspace in our tiny apartment’s spare bedroom and turned my hobby into a full-fledged wedding accessory brand which is now known around the world.
My first design space - in our tiny spare room!
Today, 15 years later, I have the privilege of designing for brides worldwide. I’ve created everything from custom veils to statement headpieces, each design handcrafted with love and care. My studio has grown from that spare bedroom into a dedicated creative space where I consult with brides, craft bespoke pieces, and run my business. Every piece I create is made to order for each customer - and is made with love and intention especially for its recipient.
As I celebrate my crystal wedding anniversary (how apt!), I’m reflecting on the incredible journey that started with my own wedding day and led me to where I am now. It’s been a journey filled with creativity, passion, and the honour of being part of so many brides’ special days. Each bride I’ve worked with holds a special place in my heart, and I’m grateful for every love story I’ve had the privilege to contribute to with my designs.
To every bride who has been part of this journey, thank you for trusting me with one of the most important days of your life. I’m proud that my own love story has allowed me to play a small part in yours.
And here’s to 15 years of magic, love, and creative fulfilment. And here’s to falling in love twice—with my husband and with bridal accessory design. I can’t wait to see what the next 15 years will bring!
Check out my little celebratory reel on Instagram: