Maeve Bridal

What's Going On?

2009-07-01T11:56:00.000-07:00

So, you may have heard some rumors...like, rumors about Maeve closing down. Well, we are happy to say...we're not!

In fact, we have made some changes to the way we will make decisions (we have been running Maeve as a partnership, and although the partnership worked great and we did just fine, it was not very efficient or easy to direct the business that way), and we actually believe it will be even better than before! Another change we've had to make, in light of the economic situation, is we did pull out of our office. So, while we did contemplate closing down, in the past two weeks we changed our minds, changed the things that needed changing, and we're still here!

That's the bad news...all of it.

The good news? Well, the good news is, first, Sara just moved into a big house in Falcon that has the perfect room for fittings. It's a relaxing drive, and it will enable us to continue to grow while decreasing our overhead cost. Second, all the same design and seamstress team is still here to work for you - nothing in that area has changed or will change. You probably won't even notice any differences about Maeve other than the fitting location.

So...are you getting married in 2010, or even fall 2009? We'd be thrilled to design a gown just for you! Get in touch with us today, and we'll get started!

Fabric Choices: Taffeta

2009-04-29T18:33:00.000-07:00

We are currently working on Juree's gown, to be made with silk taffeta. Many people have experienced polyester taffeta bridesmaid gowns, and have the wrong picture of this wonderful fabric! Quality silk taffeta is smooth, breathable, and makes that wonderful rich rustling sound when you move! It has just the right amount of shine to make your pictures turn out incredible. Contact us today for your free quote and to schedule your consultation!

Open House

2009-04-29T17:39:00.000-07:00

Don't forget! Our open house is this Saturday, 11am-3pm, in our offices at 5555 Erindale Dr. Ste 203, Colorado Springs, 80918. Feel free to call 719-351-2604 or email info@maevebridal.com with any questions. Whether you are engaged or just love the work Maeve does, we'd love to see you!

There will be cake tasting, photographers we love, wedding planning, catering, and more also represented. Come find fantastic vendors for your wedding in a much more intimate, quiet setting than the big bridal fairs. And most of all, talk with our designer about your special gown!

Muslin Fitting

2009-04-21T07:27:00.001-07:00

Want to see what a muslin fitting looks like? We recently did Natalie's, and it went great!

What if I don't live in Colorado?

2009-04-20T15:11:00.001-07:00

All the time, brides tell us online, "I LOVE your gowns, but I don't live in Colorado, and I can't afford to fly out there." Well, having your gown done in person is NOT the only way! :) If you live out of state and cannot come for fittings, your process can look like this. You can still have a custom Maeve gown!

1. First, we will have a consultation via phone. Ideally, we'll have internet access at the same time so we can send pics/drawings back and forth during the phone call. This can be done by 3-way call or speakerphone with Sara and Holly. You can even put us on speakerphone at your end if you want to include other people in the consultation. We will nail down what you're looking for.

2. We will have your gown professionally illustrated. This way, everyone is on the same page and we all know what is being made.

3. You will go to a seamstress or tailor in your area (call a high-end clothing store for recommendations) and have measurements taken. The measurements we need depend on the style of your gown, so we will tell you which ones are needed and send you a form to have the seamstress fill out. You will send us the completed form.

4. We will make a muslin version of your gown and actually send it to you for you to try on. This confirms your measurements and the fit of the gown. If it does not fit, you will need to take it to a seamstress for them to mark changes for us. Then you send it back.

5. When we receive the muslin, we will use it as the pattern and make your gown, start to finish. We will then ship it to you (of course with insurance, etc!) Your gown will be made to the measurements you originally sent us, and must be paid in full by Paypal before we ship the dress. You will receive pictures of the completed gown before you must pay, then once we receive payment we will send the gown, and give you a tracking id for the dress package. If additional alterations need to be made once you receive the gown, you will just find a local seamstress (often you can call a local bridal shop and they have recommendations) who can do those for you.

It's a little more complex than ordering a dress in the store, but overall fairly straightforward! Please contact us for more info!

Fabric Choices: Raw Silk

2009-04-18T16:09:00.000-07:00

Gowns made from raw silk give off an artistic and carefree but glamorous feel! Hands down, brides tell us their two favorite gowns of ours are Renee and Tarah, both raw silk gowns. The silk gives off a sheen that looks incredible in natural or dramatic lighting. It wears amazingly well - not very susceptible to wrinkling and very breathable.

Because it is a natural fabric, there is a large variation in silk fabrics - both color and texture-wise. This means your raw silk gown will be completely one-of-a-kind!

If you're looking for a raw silk gown, contact us for a consultation. We can create one just for you that will add the perfect amount of drama to your wedding day!

2009 Bridal Expo

2009-04-14T12:40:00.000-07:00

Stop by and say to Natalie on Saturday - she's representing us at the 2009 Bridal Expo at Stargazer's Theatre. Free admission! 11am-4pm April 18th. (P.S. She's also a client of ours, so she can give you the inside scoop!)

See Alpine Chef for more info!

Fabric Choices: Linen

2009-04-10T12:09:00.001-07:00

"Linen?" you might ask? For a wedding gown?

Well, it all depends...there are two types of people in the world. Type one is the type that hates wearing linen. The common complaint is that it wrinkles the minute you site down. It's true. It does. There's no getting around that. Type two, however, is the type who in spite of wrinkles, would wear linen every day if they could! It's soft, breathable, comfortable, and gives a little of that Boho/Hippie feel. Are you the second type?

A linen gown would be perfect for a beach or backyard daytime wedding - casual, breezy, fun! There are so many options for making a linen gown unique, feminine, or even just a little more dressy! Check out Anna's hippie wedding gown, and contact us for a free quote!

Open House

2009-04-09T13:21:00.001-07:00

Maeve Bridal will be hosting an open house on May 2! If you're engaged, know someone who is, or are just interested in what we do, please stop by - we'd love to meet you. :)

Check out our Facebook event for all the details...

Fabric Choices: Satin

2009-04-05T21:55:00.000-07:00

Emily

Brides often come to us not knowing much about fabric choices. This is not a problem at all, because we have swatches of fabric you can look at and feel before we actually choose your fabric. However, we thought we'd talk about the pluses and minuses of certain fabrics here, so you can be better informed about this choice when it comes to your custom wedding gown!

Satin is probably the most common fabric used in special occasion dresses. It's that shiny, smooth fabric that is everywhere. Check out this Wikipedia article for a technical explanation of satin. Dresses of ours that were made with satin are Safiya, the bottom edge of Emily, and Jennifer (pics coming soon!)

The advantage of satin is obviously its look. Especially with silk satin, it feels sensual and smooth on your skin. It gives that traditional wedding gown look, perfect for so many beautiful gowns! It catches the light and gives off that creamy glow in pictures.

There are some challenges with satin. While we advise all of our brides to buy shapewear for under their gowns (even thin people are not totally smooth, and you'll want to look smooth under your dress!), even shapewear does not always cover everything. If you are concerned about your weight or want to disguise certain parts of your body, satin is not very forgiving. It also snags very easily. Even rough finger tips can snag it, let along sitting on a plastic chair at a reception, or other wedding-day adventures.

Fabric choice is very important to the "feel" and look of the dress. At your consultation we can advise you on the perfect fabric choice for your perfect dress!

Occasionally Asked Questions

2009-02-24T08:36:00.001-08:00

Have a question that's not answered on the website, but you've wondered about? We'd be happy to answer it for you! Here are a couple to get you started:

How much can be changed about my dress once the process starts?

-At your first fitting, you will try on a "muslin" of your gown - basically a version of your dress in simple cotton that will allow us to get the fit just right before using the real fabric. We will make marks all over it and then actually take it apart to make the pattern for your dress. If you try on the muslin and don't like the neckline, or if the skirt is too full or not full enough, or if the sleeves aren't shaped like you thought, etc., at this stage it is easy to make some changes. The further along the process we go, the harder it is to make changes other than minor fit adjustments.

Can I buy my own fabric/trim?

-Absolutely! If you find something you love, you can definitely do that. You will need to be in touch with Holly about how much to buy, and we will give you a new quote without the fabric cost. Depending on the circumstances, buying your own fabric may or may not save you more than the cost of the fabric in your quote from us.

So, ask away! We'll look forward to your questions...

New Site!

2009-02-20T11:38:00.001-08:00

Our new site is up and running! We are so excited about a better way for you to view the beautiful photography of our wonderful photographers. Check it out!

Facebook

2009-01-21T13:34:00.000-08:00

Just created a new profile on Facebook. Come "friend" us!

More Pics of Tarah's Gown

2009-01-18T21:12:00.000-08:00

Audrey Hannah Photography took some incredible pictures of Tarah in her Maeve Bridal gown. Go check 'em out!

Tarah

2009-01-12T14:24:00.001-08:00

Tarah wanted a very unique look - strips of fabric, cris-crossing to form the top of the gown. Holly created this special pattern just for her.

We were losing the light here also - had to go with plan B for a picture location. But check out Megan Hardre Photography - she does a terrific job!

Safiya

2009-01-12T10:49:00.001-08:00

Playing a bit of catch-up with our blog. Safiya's wedding was back in October...

My favorite part of this one was the back - with the long sash and the underbustle, it was very sleek and elegant!

Our light was fading fast so these don't accurately represent her beautiful work - but check out Heather Bauers Photography!

So you want to have a dress made...

2009-01-10T20:47:00.001-08:00

Once you've made the big decision, what's next?

-We will send you an official quote along with the professional illustration of your gown. You will sign off on the paperwork, and turn in your 50% deposit that will hold your space.

-When we are ready to begin the gown, we will take (or you will send us) your measurements. Preferably, these will be taken in the undergarments you will wear for your wedding. This helps avoid needing alterations later on.

-Holly will create your pattern by hand, and sew a simple cotton muslin version of your dress for you to try on.

-Your first fitting will be in the muslin, to make sure the pattern is right. An additional 25% payment is due. If you haven't already seen it, you will see the fabric we will make your dress from.

-Your gown will go to the seamstress, who may or may not need a fitting with you during the sewing process.

-When the gown is complete except for the hem and bustle (if needed), you will have a fitting for those.

-Your final fitting! Your gown is complete and perfect! Make your final payment and take your gown home to wait for your big day!

Follow us on Twitter!

2009-01-10T12:11:00.000-08:00

Bridal Festival

2008-10-07T10:27:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who came to see us at the Bridal Festival on Sunday! A good time was had by all. :)

Bridal Festival

2008-10-03T21:01:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder - we will be participating in the Bridal Festival at Phil Long Expo this Sunday from 1-4 pm. Please come out and see us, and take a look through our look book! We will be giving away two FREE design consultations!

New Logo and Bridal Fair!!

2008-09-27T10:55:00.001-07:00

How do you like our new logo? Efrain, our new illustrator, created it for us! We are excited to use it next weekend, when we participate in our first Bridal Festival at the Phil Long Expo Center in Colorado Springs. The Festival is open from 1-4pm on Sunday the 5th. Please come out and see us! We will have a collection of pictures and illustrations you can look through, and we'll be giving away two FREE consultations!

Come say hi!

P.S. We just updated our site - come check it out!

Discount vs. Custom Bridal Gowns

2008-08-12T08:45:00.000-07:00

If you’re like most brides shopping for a gown, you’ve already been to the discount bridal shops. Sure, they can save you money, but are they really all they’re cracked up to be? Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of discount gowns and custom gowns.

There are definitely some advantages to buying a discount gown. If you have a short engagement, and need a gown within 1-2 months, discount shops keep gowns in stock and you can often buy off the rack. And, they are obviously inexpensive. If your wedding budget requires that you keep your gown price under $500, discount is probably the only way to do that, unless you find a very good sample sale in a bridal boutique. These are the two situations in which discount shops shine!

The list of disadvantages of discount bridal gowns is much longer, however. Discount gowns are inexpensive because manufacturers often use poor quality fabrics and poor workmanship – they take the quick route when putting together their gowns. You will notice this in the “feel” of the gown, and how well it handles your wedding day adventures, but probably most importantly, you will notice it in the fit of the gown. Because discount shops are so popular and their gowns are mass produced on such a large scale, literally hundreds of other women have been married in your same gown. Discount shops often use high-pressure sales to force you into a quick decision before you’re sure what you want, and everyone else gets the same treatment. There is no individual experience. Additionally, the sizes available are sometimes limited, so you may have to try on a gown that doesn’t fit, and order your size, hoping the sizing works out and that alterations can fix any issues. In that case, it will still take several months for your gown to be ready.

There are also some disadvantages to custom gowns. Sometimes the price can be higher – after all, the pattern is made to your exact measurements, you usually have at least 3 fittings, and your gown is created and fitted with great attention to detail. However, many times high-end designers mark up a gown (sometimes as much as 100% more!) just because it carries their name. So, without the big name, we can actually create a gown with the shape that you love, but without the massive mark-up. Creating a custom gown also requires you to make a decision about your gown before you can see the finished product. We guarantee it will fit perfectly, but you must be sure of the gown you want before we start the process. Finally, we generally need at least 3 months to complete a gown. This can be a disadvantage in a short engagement.

On the other hand, the advantages of custom gowns are tremendous. Why spend hours and hours searching every bridal shop in the region (as well as the internet!) for the gown you want, when we can create it for you? We could potentially save you hours and hours of your time! No matter what your body type, your custom gown will fit perfectly. We create the design and the pattern specifically for you – it will fit like it was made for you, because it was! You have the freedom to choose the fabric we use. We love to use the highest quality fabrics, but we also give you the freedom to save money on the fabric if you choose. The workmanship is always of the highest quality, no matter the final price point of the gown. 150 years ago, people more often had clothing made for them. Now, having a custom wedding gown made is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If there was ever a day to love what you wear, your wedding day is that day! Lastly, Maeve Bridal never uses high-pressure sales. We are laid back, down-to-earth, knowledgeable about what we do, we pay attention to fashion trends so we can make suggestions if you need them, and we love to get excited about your gown and wedding right along with you!

We hope this article helps you to better understand our business and why we get so excited about custom gowns! As always, if you have any questions, please contact us at info@maevebridal.com or 719-351-2604

Anna's Gown

2008-08-03T23:37:00.000-07:00

Anna was looking for a hippie gown - which fit her personality and style very well! Her gown has hand embroidery down the front and a lace detail at the hem. Very fun!

This Just In!

2008-07-28T12:50:00.000-07:00

Maeve Bridal will be participating in Bridal Festival at Phil Long Expo in Colorado Springs on October 5th, 2008. Admission is free - come out and meet us!

Getting married next summer? Book your gown now, before the rush. A 50% deposit will hold your spot in our schedule. We expect to fill up quickly! Contact us for a quote today!

Holly At Work

2008-07-11T13:52:00.000-07:00

Though she'll probably try to make me take it down, (this is Sara, hi!) we have too many good pictures of Holly at work at Renee's photo shoot for me to be able to resist a post about her. :)

Holly is the creative talent/designer behind Maeve Bridal.

She has impeccable taste, does meticulous work, and is just generally fun to have around (note the picture of her hanging from the balcony railing!).

Your wedding gown is safe in her hands - she's sure to make your dreams come true!

Renee's Gown

2008-07-08T06:43:00.000-07:00

We are pleased to present Renee's gown:
(Click images for larger version)
Raw silk provides the unique texture and drape for Renee's gown.

At Last!

2008-06-17T08:37:00.000-07:00

We finally have pictures of two gowns we're working on! Well, at least pictures of the process. Final pictures of the gowns will be posted after the weddings in July. :)
First, Anna's gown:
Anna wanted a hippie gown, which we love! This is the basic structure of the gown. Several things have been added - lace, another layer of fabric over the skirt, hand embroidery, and Anna decided to change the halter strap to shoulder straps for more comfort.

And Renee's gown (sorry for the poor focus):

Renee's gown first went to the seamstress for the construction of the structure of the dress. Then Holly began working on draping the outside on a dress form. The outside of the dress is draped with silk - very elegant! As you can see, the draping process took some work and some experimenting. The finished gown is magnificent. We can't wait for you to see it! Check back for finished pictures of Renee's gown on July 7th!

Posts coming soon!

2008-05-24T13:31:00.000-07:00

We currently have several gowns in process. Photos of their final fittings will be up shortly. We can't wait!