BRIDE OF THE MONTH:
Pascale Devlin
What made you choose to visist Anna Bridal?
It was initially the range of designers at Anna Bridal that made me think 'I need to make an appointment!'. Not long after this, I went to the Chewton Glen showcase and met Anna - straight away I felt like I'd known her forever. We chatted about a particular Suzanne Neville dress that I thought I would like to try of which Anna was able to loan for my first appointment.
How did you know your dress was ‘the one’? Tell us about your "yes" moment...
I was really torn between two designers, Berta and Suzanne Neville. I tried on a whole range of styles that I loved but as soon as I tried on Petunia the feeling was totally different. It wasn't the style of dress that I initially imiagined myself wearing for my wedding but I felt relaxed, poised and a million dollars!
For me, the teary moment wasn't until I added the veil where I really got that 'yes' sense. I'd also add that it really wasn't the style of dress that I initially imagined myself wearing for my wedding!
What do you love most about your dress?
The dress pulled together so many gorgeous elements that make it so special - a incredible corset bodice, a fitted skirt finished with buttons and a dusting of sparkle and appliqué flowers. My dress was SO comfortable that I didn't end up getting a second outfit for the evening reception.
Who’s reaction to the dress were you most looking forward to?
Gosh this is a tricky one! Of course, the groom, but I also couldn't wait for my granddad to see me, my brother and my girls! Mum had a few tears at the appointment and Granny was FaceTimed in when we did the first fitting as she was stuck over in Hong Kong due to Covid restrictions.
What did you love most about your ABC experience?
Anna and Millie are absolutely fabulous! They both made me feel so special and never made me feel like I was taking too long at an appointment or that I was being indecisive. I think I tried on every pair of shoes in the boutique and probably all of the veils. I had a wobble moment post Covid about 'the dress' but, they were there every step of the way and nothing was ever too much trouble. They made the entire bridal gown shopping experience so magical.
What part of wedding planning did you most enjoy?
I am a details person, so there was a lot of planning! I actually really loved learning calligraphy with my mother-in-law to be. As a by product of Covid, we joined some classes via Zoom and then practiced at weekends together which was really lovely. It was so special to write all my own invitations and place names. Plus, it meant that I could write the place names for two of my other friend's weddings!
In terms of actual planning, I really loved working through the entire reception. From arrival at the venue, to canapés, welcome drinks, background details, after dinner shots, the food, the band, the songs... I guess the lot!
Name one unforgettable memory from your wedding day?
My mum organised a surprise for our reception in the form of singing waiters. They were incredible! Everyone was singing along, dancing round the pavilion in one giant conga and best of all, they sang my favourite songs from The Greatest Showman!
It's too hard to pick just one thing - my other unforgettable memory is the speeches. My granddad did my father of the bride speech which was so special, Jonny's best woman was unfortunately stuck in Hong Kong due to travel restrictions but she was there in the form of a cardboard cutout, my brother did an excellent job of being MC, and my husband, Jonny's speech was amazing!
How did your husband propose?
We got engaged on our three year anniversary whilst we were on holiday with my family visiting my grandparents in the Swiss Alps. We'd been out at the lake all day and I was feeling a bit sleepy but Jonny and I had agreed to go for an anniversary hike. We took the cable car to the top of the mountain instead of hiking up, and it was there at the top of the Swiss Alps that Jonny got down on one knee. Although, it apparently did take three attempts due to firstly not being able to find the box in his backpack and secondly a sweaty runner appearing on the pathway. Plus, by sheer coincidence my family were actually on the pathway just out of our sight and witnessed it all as they were trying to avoid were they thought we were going to be!
What’s one piece of advice you would give to our future ABC brides?
We started our planning process by writing down the words and feelings we wanted to get from our wedding day. This was our sense check when we inevitably got overwhelmed with choices and I got a bit carried away with all of the details! It is so easy to think you need everything but, it ultimately comes down to one thing in my opinion: the two of you getting married and how you want to feel. Prioritise the things which are important to you and don't compare your vision to other peoples. It will be the best day of your life no matter what!
