Already stressing about doing justice to your gown? We hear from Glasgow's Admire Bridal Dressing, the specialist service that keeps brides worry- and wrinkle-free
Ava and Chloe met while working at a prestigious wedding boutique where they shared a passion for all things bridal
Thinking about how you’ll get into your wedding dress on the big day?
For many brides, it’s not as simple as zipping up and heading out the door. Gowns often feature layers of delicate fabric, tricky buttons or corset backs that require an expert touch.
That’s where professional bridal dressers step in. We spoke to Ava and Chloe, co-owners of Glasgow-based Admire Bridal Dressing, about what their specialist service involves, who it’s for, and how it helps brides feel calm, comfortable and crease-free on their wedding morning.
What does a bridal dresser actually do?
The average woman is perfectly capable of doing her own hair and makeup. So why do most brides hire a professional to do it for them?
Because we want to look our best, of course – and not sweat nervously through our bridal pyjamas trying to achieve it. So why should getting into our wedding dresses be treated any differently?
Ava and Chloe, co-owners of Glasgow’s Admire Bridal Dressing, walk us though the ins and outs of hiring a luxury service like theirs, and explain why their personal approach – with bespoke packages based on each bride’s needs – will ensure your wedding morning is as smooth as, well, a professionally steamed gown.
As former bridal stylists, Admire Bridal Dressing offer a steady hand and a steady presence on your big day (Photo: The Gibsons)
Is bridal dressing just for the bride, or can others use the service too?
Admire’s steaming services and full dressing packages aren’t restricted to just the bride – Ava and Chloe can offer morning-of support to whoever needs it.
“We steam garments for bridesmaids, the MOB and MOG, the flower girls (we’re frequently asked to help little ones get dressed) and even members of the groom’s party,” says Ava.
Once you’ve decided how much assistance you’d like, the team get to work compiling a full list of the items requiring their attention, effectively scheduling their time ahead of arrival.
“When we get there, we touch base with the bride or a designated member of the bridal party to determine a discreet and out-of-the-way place to set up that doesn’t interfere with the hair and makeup process,” says Chloe.
“The full steaming and dressing package not only includes prepping the garments, but helping the bride into her gown, ensuring it is fastened correctly and comfortably.”
Ava and Chloe at Admire Bridal Dressing recommend booking their services about a year in advance, but they’ll try their best to accommodate late bookings. “Even if it is short notice, it’s worth getting in touch so we can check our availability” (Photo: The Gibsons)
When should a bride consider booking a dresser?
Unsure how much help you might need? Take a moment to consider your dress.
“Gowns with multiple layers or crafted from delicate fabrics (think satin, silk, chiffon and organza) require special care during steaming – it’s a time-consuming, intricate process,” Ava tells us
“When it comes to dressing, corset backs often require experienced hands, as they can be complex to secure properly, and the buttons layered over them are frequently stiff and tricky.
Having a professional on hand ensures everything is done correctly and eliminates any unnecessary stress for the bridal party.”
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How can a bridal dresser keep the morning running smoothly?
Not only are bridal dressers true whizzes with a wedding gown, they also serve as a clever pair of coordinators, getting everyone working in sync towards the bride’s desired timeline.
“We make sure that everyone who needs to be present is ready, and that no detail is missed,” Chloe promises.
Admire’s service begins with a full steaming of all key garments. If time allows, Ava and Chloe take a moment to assist the photographer in positioning and styling the gown for a few detail shots, before the bride is carefully dressed.
Then it’s on to choreographing any ‘first looks’ she may have planned, ensuring the dress and scene are both beautifully set.
“We always love the father-daughter reveals,” say the pair. “There’s just something incredibly touching about those moments – very often, we find ourselves getting a little emotional too!”
Ava and Chloe can offer morning-of support to whoever needs it. “We steam garments for bridesmaids, the MOB and MOG, the flowergirls (we’re frequently asked to help little ones get dressed) and even members of the groom’s party,” says Ava (Photo: Ryan Mimiec Photography)
What extra support do bridal dressers provide on the wedding day?
As former bridal stylists, Ava and Chloe have supported hundreds of brides and have handled a wide range of different dresses and on-the-day dynamics.
“We quietly manage an array of details, from tracking down missing accessories and drying off bouquet stems to solving small issues before they escalate,” Chloe tells us.
“We always come prepared with our emergency kit, including essentials like needles and thread, safety pins, bridal tape and other little lifesavers.
These items might seem minor, but whether it’s a popped button, a stubborn zip or a slipping strap we’re dealing with, they’ve saved the day on countless occasions.”
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Is hiring a bridal dresser worth it?
If you’re a bride who’s already anticipating feeling emotional or overwhelmed, having experienced bridal dressers on hand could be peace of mind.
“We’re there not just as a service, but as a steady presence, helping to bring a sense of peace to what can be a whirlwind of a morning,” smiles Ava.
