Can you have a clear vision of what you want but still keep an open mind? This bride did – and ended up with a brilliantly customised gown. Here, she shares the story behind it
The tulle and off-shoulder sleeves were added to Iona’s strapless gown, which complemented Aidan’s kilt perfectly! (Photo: Ross Alexander Photography)
Iona married Aidan McGuire at Cameron House, Loch Lomond, on 4th October 2024, wearing Essense of Australia’s D3634 gown from Kudos Bridal Dunfermline.
The new Mrs McGuire shares a first-hand account of her wedding dress shopping experience and doesn't leave out any details...
When is the right time to start shopping for a wedding dress?
"I had begun shopping for dresses in January 2024 for my October wedding. Once the venue was booked, the dress was next on my list.
"I wanted a gown that was timeless, classic and elegant, yet comfortable enough for an all-day celebration without the need for a second outfit. I planned to keep the decor simple, aiming for a beautifully classic feel across all the day’s details."
How do you find a wedding dress that matches your vision?
"The moment I tried on my Essense of Australia dress with the added tulle sleeves, everything just clicked. I felt such an overwhelming sense of joy and confidence.
"The fit was perfect and it truly embodied the timeless, classic look I’d envisioned. In that moment, I knew I’d found the one."
What should you look for in a bridal boutique?
"My sister had found her dress at Kudos Bridal Dunfermline just a few months prior, and had a great experience there, so I booked myself in for an appointment. Megan Carberry is the manager at Kudos, and she made my entire shopping experience unforgettable."
Iona plans to have her dress professionally cleaned and stored properly so she can preserve it as a beautiful keepsake (Photo: Ross Alexander Photography)
How can a bridal stylist help you discover your dream dress?
"Kudos provided all the essential information I’d need well in advance (such as which designers it stocks, what undergarments to wear and which shoes to bring), so I felt prepared going in.
"I arrived with a few dresses in mind that I’d spotted online. Megan was fantastic – she took my picks on board and added a few suggestions of her own, helping me to explore options I hadn’t considered.
"I’d pictured myself in something fitted with clean lines and minimal embellishment; Megan understood my preferences immediately, making each dress I tried on feel like a genuine option.
"I tried on about eight dresses, each reflecting the elegant style I wanted. I had tried about a dozen gowns across several boutiques before going to Kudos, but Megan’s incredible patience and attentiveness made me feel confident that this was where I’d find my dress – and I did."
Finding a comfortable wedding dress
"I had heard stories about brides feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to find the ‘perfect’ dress and was worried I might feel rushed or pushed into a decision – but my experience couldn’t have been further from that.
"Megan took the time to understand my vision, suggesting styles that complemented my figure, and even provided insight on different fabrics and how they would move, which was helpful in understanding how each dress would feel throughout the day.
"She was always reminding me that comfort is just as important as style.
"When I stepped out to show the liquid crepe Essense of Australia number to my mum, sister and mother-in-law, their reactions mirrored what I was feeling. I didn’t need time to think about it; I just knew this was my dress."
A lovely look at Iona’s gorgeous train and veil combination as she smiles alongside her bridesmaids (Photo: Ross Alexander Photography)
Choosing a customisable wedding dress
"Despite being in love with the dress, I knew I wanted to add detachable sleeves (I’ve always been a bit self-conscious about my arms).
"Megan was open to the idea of customisation and suggested incorporating tulle sleeves – which completely transformed the look and made it perfect for the reception.
"After saying yes to the dress in March, Kudos provided a clear timeline for fittings and alterations, making the process feel smooth and organised.
"Megan continued to guide me through each fitting, from ensuring the sleeves were just right, to discussing bustling the train for the reception."
Adding the perfect bridal accessories
"I paired my gown with accessories that complemented its timeless elegance – one of my favourites being my Jimmy Choo pearl shoes.
"They added a touch of glamour and sophistication while still being comfortable enough for a full day of celebrating.
"For jewellery, I chose a pair of pearl drop earrings that matched the shoes and a delicate bracelet that added a subtle sparkle without overwhelming the overall look.
"I wanted to keep the accessories minimal to let the gown shine while still adding personal touches that reflected my style.
"To bring my own spin to the final look, I also incorporated a vintage-inspired hairpiece that featured delicate crystals and pearls. It added a personal touch while still keeping with the timeless theme.
"This combination of accessories made me feel uniquely myself on my wedding day, striking the perfect balance between classic elegance and my individual style."
How did you feel wearing your wedding dress on the big day?
"Everything about wearing the dress was incredible."
"The way it moved as I walked was truly magical, and I loved how the tulle sleeves added an elegant touch while still allowing me to feel comfortable."
"And the icing on the cake? Seeing everyone’s reactions as I walked down the aisle. The look on Aidan’s face was pure awe – he was absolutely speechless.
"Everything I had hoped for fell into place, and I couldn’t have been happier with my choice. It was a magical experience, and as I stepped into this beautiful new chapter of my life, I truly felt like the best version of myself."
Iona's dress included a long line of classic buttons cascading down the back of her train (Photo: Ross Alexander Photography)
Experience wedding dress shopping at Kudos Bridal Dunfermline
“At Iona’s first appointment with me she was very clear on her overall vision. We explored a lot of options but kept coming back to style D3634,” says Megan Carberry.
“I knew she loved a Bardot neckline, so adding detachable off-shoulder straps was an easy decision. Sometimes your bridal gown just takes a leap of faith!
"I loved Iona’s choice to add detachable tulle sleeves for her reception, too. When I first saw that Essense had these on offer, we ordered a sample with Iona in mind and I’m so glad we did!”
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Scroll to see more gorgeous photos from Iona and Aidan's day, all captured by: Ross Alexander Photography
