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| Your wedding, your way - cultural weddings.
Define
Decide just how cultural you want your wedding to be. Do you want your dress to be a traditional African style or one that's contemporary? Or would you be happier in a Western-style gown with African accessories? Should your theme carry over to your attendants' dresses, your bouquet, your cake? Be honest with yourself about how far you want to go with cultural touches. Then start your search for the best of everything!
Search
You're going to treasure your dress forever, so you want it to be perfect. If you decide on a cultural style, how can you find a designer to make it for you? Start by asking the owners or salespeople in stores that market African and Caribbean clothing, crafts and decorative arts. |
You can also contact other Black-owned businesses, including florists, photographers, wedding planners and caterers. Other resources for cultural styles are Black publications and costume designers. (For ready-made cultural bridal and bridesmaids' dresses by Black designers that you can purchase, see page 70.)
Place your order
Lucky you! You've found a designer who you think can create your dress. At your initial meeting, let her know the mood or feeling you want to evoke at your wedding. Before you put any money down, ask to see actual samples (not photos or sketches) of her work. Check the inside seams to see how the garment is finished. Present the designer you choose with some idea of what you want; a photo or sketch would be helpful. Let her know if you have any strong dislikes (such as an empire waist or puffed sleeves) or things you favor (V neckline, lots of lace). The designer should have a sketch and some fabrics swatches for your next meeting (if possible, arrange to accompany her when she shops for fabric). Draw up a contract that includes a production timetable and date for completion of the gown. Total cost, including miscellaneous sewing expenses, should also be outlined.
The wrap-up
Don't overlook your accessories in all the excitement of getting your dress designed. Consult your designer and check your resources for where to find a headpiece, ethnically styled rings, exotic African and Caribbean flowers and other accessories. Be creative. For example, hand-designed appliques turn peau de soie shoes into an ethnic treasure.
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