mia bridal co.

Introducing...Hayley Paige!

2012-02-08T11:21:00.000-08:00

Who, is Hayley Paige you ask? Although her name may not be familiar, over the years she has designed for some of the most notable bridal gown designers in North America. Her resume is impressive, having been an integral designer for the Melissa Sweet Bridal and bridesmaid collection. She was also the primary designer behind the first Marchesa Eterna bridal collection at Priscilla of Boston.

Now, she has spread her wings and created a beautiful couture collection that she calls her own. "I wanted to debut with a fun and fresh look that could also be distinguished with just the right amount of refinement and keenness” says Paige. Her designs are romantic and charming. She celebrates the sweeter and edgier arrays of femininity, influenced heavily by a European aesthetic. Her bride, says Paige “has a loving and charming sense of self, but also commands just the right amount of edge”.

These beautiful new gowns will be in store soon and we can’t wait to receive them. We will be celebrating the arrival of this new collection with a trunk show to be held on March 23 to March 25, 2012 at our new salon located at 444 Preston Street. Please call or email for more information on this beautiful new collection.

Ciao for now xo

Antonella

Your maids

2012-01-25T11:56:00.000-08:00

You’ve asked your friends and family to be a bridesmaid. Now comes the impossible task of accommodating many personalities and body types, while keeping with your vision for your wedding day.

On top of that, you really really really want the girls to wear the dress again…This is no easy task my friends, BUT with the right designers and styles to choose from, searching for the perfect bridesmaid dress can be easy and fun!

I love the idea of having the MOH wear a different style from the rest of the party. The fabric and colour is the same which allows for a cohesive look but it also allows your MOH to stand apart in a subtle way. Styles 5200 and 5211 are designed by Jim Hjelm and available in store!

The little black dress - both style by Lazaro

There isn't a girl that doesn't love to wear a little black dress. Choosing black as a colour for your bridesmaid dress is a great idea for many reasons. The girls will likely re-wear the dress if it's black, especially if it's super chic like the above dresses. Black is classic and timeless so it won't age or date the photographs you spent a fortune on and of course black is a neutral colour that will 'go' with a million other colours.

Different Style, Cohesive collection

The Amsale bridesmaid dresses are amazing. The silk chiffon collection in particular is one of my favourites. I love that the bridesmaids can choose their own neckline, while the fit and style on the bottom half is the same. There isn't a body I've seen that hasn't looked amazing in these dresses. For something unique, choose different yet complimentary colours for the girls to wear. This will solve your problem of not everyone looking good in the same colour and having to choose between colours that you absolutely love anyway.

Twinkle Twinkle Swarovski Crystal....

2011-10-04T13:03:00.000-07:00

Who doesn’t love a little bling, especially on the most important day of your life? Your wedding day is your day to shine, sparkle like a diamond and be the bell of the ball. Both Kenneth Pool and Lazaro have the special gift of creating opulent and unique gowns using Swarovski crystals that are hand embroidered and placed strategically on their gowns.
Founded in 2003 by Amsale Aberra, the Kenneth Pool label has been long recognized for its embodiment of fantasy and drama with its luxurious fabrics and exquisite bead work.
Each gown encapsulates the essence of the Kenneth Pool label: Ultimate femininity combined with sexy, lavish and unapologetic glamour. Wrap your waist with a three-inch band of Swarovski crystal that is delicately hand sewn by Amsale’s team in her New York City Atelier. You’ll feel the allure. The crystal embroidery is used to accent a woman’s shape. Adding the crystal deliberately to the natural waist, just under the bust line or as a broach accent piece will highlight your small waist, long legs or feminine curves. Some gowns feature detachable belts, which make a striking and dramatic addition to a cocktail dress after your big day. Although you may never wear your wedding dress again, the crystal belt is a piece that can re-create the magic of your wedding day time and time again.
Lazaro enjoys blending ultra-glamourous vintage details, stunning floral embellishments and his signature crystal hand beading to create a one of a kind masterpiece. A Lazaro bride appreciates the intricate detail of a hand-beaded crystal bodice. Bringing attention close to the face allows a bride to be the centrepiece of the day. The beadwork is often woven into soft tulle or sheer netting to create a romantic and feminine look. The crystals catch the light in such a way; you can’t help but be mesmerized.
Mia Bridal Co. located at 444 Preston Street is the exclusive retailer for both the Kenneth Pool and Lazaro collections. Proprietor Antonella Ceglia has enjoyed tremendous success since opening the boutique in May 2008. She works tirelessly to bring the Ottawa area modern and unique gowns and bridesmaid dresses, fresh off the runways of New York. For more information on the entire collection, please visit Mia Bridal Co.’s Facebook page or website at www.miabridalco.com

Who wore Romona Keveza

2011-06-30T09:44:00.000-07:00

Johnny Depp LOVES Romona Keveza too!

Christina Hendricks wore this stunning red gown to the

Golden Globe Awards

Edie Falco (our fave mobster wife) in Romona Keveza at the Tony Awards

Jennifer Love Hewitt is a show stopper in this beautiful gown fully equipped with crumb catcher!

Virginia Madsen at the 2011 Oscars.

LOVE this cocktail dress worn by Brooke Burke

Romona Keveza is an exquisite bridal gown designer. We have carried her creations since opening in 2008, so we know first hand how exceptional her gowns really are. Her gowns are luxurious, feminine and timeless. Her evening wear pieces are just as special.

No wonder celebrities choose these creations for their moment on the red carpet!

Many of her wedding gowns translate beautifully into evening wear, making her one of the most sought-after bridal gown designers in North America.

Our brides feel like a million dollars and a real star when wearing one of her gowns.

Noir By Lazaro

2011-06-02T13:35:00.000-07:00

I HEART Lazaro.

He has become a household name in bridal couture and often appears on ‘Say Yes to the Dress’ Atlanta and NYC. His creations are feminine, romantic and bold. Recently he has launched ‘NOIR by Lazaro’, a new collection of sophisticated and refined eveningwear. This exclusive collection features stunning cocktail and floor length silhouettes with elegantly beaded appliqués in rich jewel tones. This collection is perfect for weddings, cocktail receptions and dinner event. A natural evolution from Lazaro’s signature bridesmaid collection NOIR draws from this designer’s sense of vintage glamour and modern styling.

Here’s a sneak peak as to what you can expect at Mia Bridal Co. in the coming months!

A gown like Kate's

2011-05-11T07:39:00.000-07:00

This is the first moment I've had to sit in almost a month. With the move to our new location at 444 Preston Street, things have been hectic. Not hectic enough though for me (who typically enjoys sleep) to wake up at 5am and watch the Prince say 'I do' to his Princess. My mom always tells the story of her and I when I was only a couple of months old watch the fairytale that was Charles and Diana. So, on April 29th 2011 I sprung out of bed and hopped into my mom's (yes my hubby and I are living with her temporarily as we renovate our new home) to watch THE wedding of the year. Kate looked beautiful, I loved everything about her gown, I thought it was perfect! I loved how her dad held her hand down the aisle, I loved how Kate took William's breath away. I love how they are in love.

But... back to the dress!! Rewind to bridal fashion week at the start of April 2011 and you'll see some uncanny resemblances to Kate's gown by celebrated designer Romona Keveza. Romona Keveza is known for her sophisticated, elegant and feminine collections. There is a Grace Kelly in all of her gowns and I thought Kate channeled this icon as well.

Grace Kelly was beautiful. The gown... timeless!

This gown will stand the test of time. Princess Kate was radiant in her gown by Sarah Burton. I loved that although the gown was modest in design, there was a little 'sexiness' with the plunging V neckline. Perfect for a young, confidant Princess!

Gown by Romona Keveza, unveiled two weeks before the Royal wedding. Available in store this summer!

Sneak Peak - Arc Hotel Shoot

2011-03-24T15:04:00.000-07:00

I walked into the Arc Hotel last Sunday for the shoot and was in awe of what surrounded me. Make up artists, hair stylists, assistants, models, stylists, photographers, EVERYONE was buzzing around in preparation for the photo shoot. I felt like I was on the set of a Hollywood film, it was outstanding. And to top it off I was in a dream closet come true!! Jewels, heels and evening gowns were everywhere. It was wonderful for Mia Bridal Co. to be involved in such a way.Although Dan (the amazing photographer) and Viresh (model manager extraordinaire) are still working on the images, here is one...many more to follow!

Kenneth Pool 'Royalty' gown is front and centre
Her beautiful 'maids' are stunning in the Amsale creations

As seen in...

2011-03-16T12:59:00.000-07:00

Speaking with a client the other day inspired this particular blog. She happened to recognize a gown because she saw it in the movie ‘The Hangover’. I thought it would be fun to list some of these famous gowns here, a collage of sorts. We've all seen these movies, so hopefully you'll recognize a few of these famous frocks!

'Tyler' gown by Amsale featured in

The Hangover

Issy tied the knot in this gown by Kenneth Pool

Rachel McAdams wore this romantic gown by Lea-Ann Belter in

The Time Traveler's Wife

When In Rome stars wore 'Ava' by Kenneth Pool (left) and G810

by Amsale (right)for this lavish affair fit for a princess

Here's Katherine Heigl once more in 27 dresses wearing a gown by Amsale

My girl, Julia Roberts in a beautiful custom gown by

Amsale in Runaway Bride

Jessica Alba plays herself as a bridesmaid in her BFF's wedding

All 5 girls are wearing dresses by Amsale...

I just love the idea of mixing complimentary colours and styles!

The Arc

2011-03-15T13:51:00.000-07:00

I met Viresh of CoverModels Management at the Posh Wedding Show last month. We got along wickedly and we promised that we would work together again soon. Well...he sure delivered!!! On Sunday, March 20th Mia Bridal Co. will be dressing his gorgeous models in couture bridal dresses for The Arc Hotel website photo shoot. We are amongst some of the best local shops and jewellers dressing the models for this chic shoot. Howard Jewellers and Morgante menswear will represent, as well as many more local trendsetters and stylists. Photographer Dan Ziemkiewcz will photograph while Viresh will direct. I look forward to seeing the finished, gorgeous product. Although these aren't the specific gowns in the shoot, the look and feel are similar.

Modern. Fresh. Opulant.

Prom

2011-03-02T10:50:00.000-08:00

Some amazing high school grads have stopped by the shop to find their dress for prom. Here are some of our house favourites. Looking back at my own prom dress (forever ago) I could have used Mia Bridal Co.!!

I love the look of this dress by Amsale. It's simple, effortless and available in some beautiful colours. If you're one to accessorize, this is the style to do that. It looks incredibly rich with big, bold jewelry.

Just in, we love this new dress by Jim Hjelm. The cocktail length skirt is layered for a soft ruffle effect
(big right now). It has the perfect sweetheart neckline and can be accented at the waist with a big sparkly belt.

This dress by Lazaro is adorable! I love the full, flirty skirt. Equipped with pockets for your fave lip gloss.

Happy shopping!
xo

POSH Wedding Show

2011-02-10T11:54:00.000-08:00

Every bride loves a good wedding show. One that is informative, elegant and showcases the best in wedding related products and services.
Mia Bridal Co. is pleased to be part of the fashion show for this event that is taking place on February 19th 2011 at the Summit in the Marriott Hotel. So sip champagne, mingle and connect with some very savvy bridal professionals.

Here are the details, I hope to see all of YOU amazing brides there!

When? Saturday, February 19th 2011
Where? The Summit, Marriott Hotel
Price? $20 per person
Who? Brides and their posse

For more information on this spectacular event please visit www.poshwedshow.ca

A Winter Wedding

2011-02-02T11:02:00.000-08:00

Today, with all this snow I can't help but think of winter weddings and what I would wear if I were to say "I do" this time of year. We have a few brave and obviously stylish brides getting married over the next few weeks and I can't wait to see how their winter weddings fall into place. I imagine a lot of candlelight, faux fur, crystal icicles, hot cocoa spiked with Baileys and white fluffy UGGS.

Gown by Jim Hjelm

Our beloved Jim Hjelm designs the gown above. Many brides are opting for gowns with straps and this French lace/silk organza option is totally decadent.The lace provides a little modestly and a lot of sophistication. The full skirt is playful but not overdone. If I were to remarry Leo (the one and only) I would wear this gown to the church in a horse-drawn sleigh. Maybe my reception would be in Tremblant at a chic hotel and there would be a plethora of Caviar and Champagne.

Naya - by AMSALE

Naya is a work of art. This gown is made of a beautiful Silk Mikado. The silk is slightly thicker and totally appropriate for a winter affair. This crumb catcher neckline is something that we continue to see in couture evening wear and bridal wear. Pair this gown with a vintage faux fur bolero jacket and VOILA...we have perfection! I would re-marry Leo in this gown and have the intimate reception at one of my favourite boutique hotels here in Ottawa, The Arc.

L257 by Romona Keveza

This gown is incredibly romantic and totally elegant. The silk organza sweetheart bodice with faux wrap is a Romona Keveza specialty. The gown spills into several layers of soft silk organza with a final net overlay that creates dimension and texture. This large crystal belt is new to the Romona Keveza collection this season and adds the perfect amount of sparkle. In candlelight this belt would look like a sky of falling stars. Pair this gown with a long veil scattered with small white polka dots, almost like a light dusting of snow!

Now, if they would only clear the snow outside my front door ;)
xo
Antonella

Amsale Aberra, a Reality Star

2011-01-27T16:33:00.000-08:00

Amsale Aberra is arguably one of the finest couture bridal designer in the world. As Creative Director for the Amsale, Kenneth Pool and Christos collections she has caught the attention of A-listers like Halley Berry, Salma Hayek and Julia Roberts.

Amsale is now gearing up for a new chapter in her career – her bridal boutique on New York’s Madison Avenue is going to be the subject of a new reality TV show airing in April. The show will be free of drama and free of crazy conflict, something Amsale is not interested in. Rather, it will be a show about the pursuit to perfection. This is Amsale’s principle and it fits her philosophy. For Aberra, a wedding dress is perfect when it reflects the bride. “It makes her personality and makes her comfortable, and when someone is comfortable they look beautiful” she said.

I look forward to watching the show and seeing the incredible gowns. Stay tuned for more information on air times!

Antonella

The Wedding Palace Bridal Show...a great success!

2011-01-18T13:39:00.001-08:00

Alex and I would love to thank all of the blushing brides who took the time to stop by our booth over the weekend during the Wedding Palace Bridal Show. It was a VERY busy event and we had the pleasure of speaking to so many wonderful brides-to-be. We look forward to having a busy season and meeting new friends over the next few months.

We had the Jim Hjelm gown #8962 at the show with us over the weekend and the feedback was incredible. Not only did hundreds of girls stop for a closer look, many mentioned that they saw that exact gown on ‘Say YES to the Dress’ this past Friday night. I was hardly surprised as we are home to many of the gowns featured on that show.

Although I urge brides to take a girls weekend to NYC…I certainly don’t think it’s necessary to purchase THE dress, anywhere other than the 613, especially considering what you will find at Mia Bridal Co.

Thanks again ladies for all of your support, look forward to having you at the shop!

Ciao for now :)

Antonella

A JIM HJELM Love Affair

2011-01-07T10:12:00.000-08:00

Imagine the soft feel of these silks against your skin as you walk down the isle. You're looking at your handsome prince and he's looking at you...

Our JIM HJELM bridal gowns have been trickling in daily. Blushing brides are definitely in love, and so are we! The silks are flowy, the embroidery is feminine and the look... chic.

We are hosting a JIM HJELM trunk show on January 28th -30th at the salon. Appointments are recommended and space is limited. We will be showcasing the entire fall 2010 collection and many of the Spring 2011 gowns. All gown orders placed this weekend will receive 10% off.

Get your copy of Wedluxe

2010-12-17T09:03:00.000-08:00

Wedluxe is Canada's luxury magazine. On stands now is the Winter/Spring 2011 edition featuring decadent couture, design and decor ideas. I personally love this magazine because I can flip for hours, read article after article and not get bored to tears!
Mia Bridal Co. also happens to be part of the very exclusive 'Glitterati' gang! We're honoured to be considered one of the finest wedding professionals in Canada. We've been chosen and invited to participate in the magazine because we are considered to be amongst the best.
Get your copy of this magazine, I know you'll love it as much as I do!!

xo
Antonella

What NOT to wear to your prom!

2010-12-14T10:50:00.001-08:00

Avoid dresses like this, they'll scare your date!
Dress NOT found at Mia Bridal Co. :)

A little prom...

2010-12-14T10:25:00.000-08:00

We dabble in prom season each year, dressing the most stylish high school grads around. This year we hope to capture more of your hearts with beautiful designer dresses you can bet no one else will wear to your prom. Why risk buying a dress at any old Ottawa boutique or high-end department store (knowing 10 other girls will be wearing the same dress) when you could order a unique piece that is just for you?

Yes, our dresses are technically bridesmaid dresses, but there is nothing ‘ traditional bridesmaid’ about them! Choose the length, colour and style and order about 3 months before your big day…Your prom should be the best night of your life (other than your wedding day of course) so spend the evening dancing the night away in your hot dress rather than avoiding the other girls wearing the same dress as you!

We promise not to sell the same dress to another girl from your school. Scout's honour!

Happy shopping :)
xoxo

Starting to look a lot like Christmas!

2010-12-09T15:07:00.000-08:00

The wait is finally over! This weekend we will be launching our month long KENNETH POOL trunk show & celebration of all things luxurious!

Designed by Amsale Aberra, the KENNETH POOL label has long been recognized for its embodiment of fantasy and drama. “I am so excited to be designing this collection,” says Ms. Aberra, working in her New York Atelier where all of the couture gowns are designed and sewn. KENNETH POOL caters to the bride who commands the spotlight, and what girl doesn’t want to be the belle of their ball?

From now until January 10, 2011 all KENNETH POOL brides will receive 15% off their purchase PLUS a complimentary KP raw edge veil.

Our salon will be home to a number of couture creations not otherwise available in the salon or city for that matter!

We hope you can celebrate with us; this collection is sparkly, special and spectacular…just like you!

Antonella

I'm a sucker for French Lace

2010-11-25T12:26:00.000-08:00

When I see the UPS truck drive right up to our front door, I know we're about to get something special. Today was no exception. I could see the JIM HJELM box from a mile away and when I unwrapped what was inside I got super excited. There, folded nicely in white tissue paper was our first JIM HJELM bridal gown! It's an Ivory French lace fitted gown with a sweep train.
The V is plunging and the back is open. It has a beautiful faux flower attached to a silky ribbon. We have nothing like it at the moment....and it's beautiful!

I cannot wait to receive the rest

Ciao for now.
Antonella

Paparazzi

2010-11-23T11:44:00.000-08:00

Kathy from Fleischer Photography was kind enough to take time out of her busy busy day to pop by the salon for a mini shoot. Her pictures, as always, turned out beautifully and I'm not just saying that cause she's my BFF!

Thought I'd share a few pics of the store and Kathy's talents!

Ciao for now :)
Antonella

KENNETH POOL Trunk Show!

2010-11-13T07:47:00.000-08:00

Calling all modern day Princesses! Celebrate the ultimate femininity combined with Kenneth Pool’s signature brand of sexy, opulent and unapologetic glamour. From December 8-January 10, 2011 view gowns not otherwise available at Mia Bridal Co. Brides receive a 15% discount on all Kenneth Pool gowns during this trunk show event. Appointments preferred.

Elegant Wedding blogged on us

2010-11-10T12:20:00.000-08:00

Seems like everyone is bloggin' these days. The folks from the Elegant Wedding Showcase blog too and they chose to do a little somethin' somethin' on us!
Check it out!

http://elegantwedding.ca/wedding-blog/

The gown featured is Nicca by Amsale.The purple sash is also available in Ivory. I LOVES it :)

Designer gowns in Ottawa...seriously!

2010-11-09T10:03:00.001-08:00

We attended our first Elegant Wedding Showcase in MTL, QC this past Sunday. It was a great event located at the beautiful Windsor Ballrooms on Peel Street. We were certainly amongst some of THE best Montreal based Wedding professionals in the business. Obviously our store isn't as known yet there as it is here in Ottawa so it was important for us to let these fashion forward brides know that Ottawa is where it's at!
We were happy to know that some brides had heard of us (you'd be surprised to know how many clients make the trip up to Ottawa to see us), but many had not. So for us, certainly a worth-while trip. My sister Alex and my hubby Leo came with me and worked so hard loading and unloading... A BIG thank you to the both of them!
I realize that many brides from Ottawa take the time to go to MTL to shop for their bridal wear. So why shouldn't a Montreal-based bride come to Ottawa? Especially when they can choose from some of the best designers in North America like Kenneth Pool, Amsale and now Jim Hjelm bridal?

Ciao for now!
Antonella

PSSSST...I have a secret!

2010-11-03T11:28:00.000-07:00

When we first opened the store, I had a vision.
The store would be spacious and modern and we would carry some of the BEST North American bridal and bridesmaid designers around. In keeping with this vision, we are proud to announce that we will be the first official and exclusive bridal salons to carry the JIM HJELM bridal collection. This is the perfect marriage and addition to our growing boutique.

Luxurious fabrics and delicate embroidery on prêt-a-porter silhouettes give the JIM HJELM bridal collection a unique feel of being traditional with a modern edge. Arriving in store early 2011!!

http://www.jlmcouture.com/Jim-Hjelm

P.S. More exciting news coming soon!

Je t'aime New York...

2010-10-21T13:24:00.000-07:00

New York was amazing. Not only did I dine in one of New York's best restaurants, Del Posto (owned by Mario Batali), I was blown away by next season's collection. Everything was jaw-dropping-ly beautiful. The tough part will be selecting the best of the best for our shop, with so many choices this is not an easy task. Here's a few images of what's to come!
xoxo
Antonella

NYC Here we come!

2010-10-13T13:03:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to visit NYC this weekend. The lights, the people, the food and of course the fashion! I cannot wait to see what our bridal designers will surprise us with this season. Will the dropped waist silhouette be making its way to the catwalk again? Is tulle going to stick around for another season or two? What about the bling? I can hardly wait...Until then I will continue to daydream of luxurious silks and satins, Swarovski crystal beading and swooshy skirts...

BTW, check out the picture of Alana above. My best friend Kathy from Fleischer Photography had the pleasure of capturing her and her hubby on their wedding day. Alana wore 'Brynne' by Amsale courtesy of Mia Bridal Co. Didn't she look dreamy?

What a weekend!

2010-09-21T12:16:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all of the beautiful brides-to-be and their families and friends for making it out this weekend to the Blue By Enzoani Trunk Show at Mia Bridal Co. It was our most successful event yet and it wouldn't have been possible without YOU!

We're gearing up for yet another busy weekend at the salon as we're hosting a sample sale this Friday/Saturday. It's a great opportunity to buy a dreamy couture gown up to 60% off, taxes included.

Why the sale, you ask? The reason is simple: We're heading to NYC to check out and bring back the latest in bridal couture...I swear, watching fashion shows, touching luxurious fabrics and meeting with designers all day is really really hard work. ;)

Ciao for now!
Antonella

Sample Sale

2010-09-16T11:51:00.000-07:00

There is so much going on these days I barely have time to think. I guess this is a good thing as most would still consider me pretty young, thus, energized enough to work work work.
Well, f you're anything like me then you're mourning the end of summer. So as s a 'pick me up' for all you brides in search of your gown, here's some news! From now until September 25th, 2010 save the HST on all already reduced sample bridal gowns. You should see what's on the sales rack. Gowns by Kenneth Pool, Amsale and Romona Keveza are reduced ridiculously. Imagine. And you save the HST too? With these saving don't make me have to write out what you could buy....those amazing Louboutin's you've been dreaming about!
Ciao for now.
xo

Do Your Friends a Favour!

2010-09-16T10:51:00.000-07:00

Our Amsale bridal gowns have been such a hit that we HAD to bring in the Amsale bridesmaid collection as well. These dresses are actually better in person than in photographs. They are amazing!!! I spent the afternoon with my sister playing dress up and trying them all on, they are fabulous. We have some shorter silk chiffon styles and some longer silk chiffon styles (which by the way are making a HUGE come back). I've purchased one for myself, now I just need somewhere to wear it ;)

Blue By Enzoani and their killer collection

2010-03-12T11:08:00.000-08:00

Our business is growing and I'm so pleased. We've recently decided to add yet another fabulous bridal gown collection. I'm so happy to announce that Blue by Enzoani and Mia Bridal Co. found each other...it was meant to be!
These gowns are soft, romantic, intricate and the perfect compliment to our other big name bridal gowns. So far, the reception has been warm and welcoming. So thanks to all the brides that visit our salon. We love having you :)

Awesome MOB and MOG's

2009-03-27T09:01:00.000-07:00

It seems like the last couple of months we've been catering to some moms who are over the frumpy looking Mother of the Bride/Groom dresses available in Ottawa. We have recently sold some fabulous gowns (technically they are bridesmaid dresses) to some very hip mommy's!

Originally, I wanted to bring in a M.O.B and M.O.G. line but wasn't sure what would and wouldn't work. I obviously didn't want to do what has been done a million times before so I thought I would wait and see if these BM dresses would take off as evening gowns.

Let's face it, some moms just need a change! The dresses that they are buying at
Mia Bridal Co. are understated and elegant, rich, and contemporary. The are not over the top and not super traditional. They are classic silhouettes in gorgeous colours at affordable prices.
Just because you are marrying off your son or daughter does not mean you have to sport what is traditionally expected of you!

I'd like to thank all the moms that have purchased from Mia Bridal Co. thus far. You rock!

Wedding Channel Couture Show

2009-03-12T11:13:00.001-07:00

I am so excited to head to New York for the weekend of April 3-5th. The who's who of designers in the bridal industry will be there to showcase the Fall 2009 collection!
I've had the pleasure of going once right before I opened the salon in order to network and
secure my designers.

This time, I get to go as a real buyer! I'll be seeing fashion shows from all of my designers and I can't wait to see what they unveil this time around.

I'm sure most of my bridal gown designers will introduce more 'cocktail-length' bridal gowns as that trend is pretty hot right now. I also expect to see some very competitive pricing (due to the recession looming) while always maintaining the quality and luxury of the couture designs that I and so many brides have fallen in love with. As for the bridesmaid lines, I expect to see more beautiful and modern knee-length dresses.

Here's more info on the designers we carry here at the salon; www.miabridalco.com

This type of trip is short and very fast paced but worth every minute.

I must confess that I hope to do a little shopping for good ol' moi!

And I know I will most definitely enjoy a couple of really nice restaurants too ;)

Ciao for now.
Antonella

New Designer Coming Soon!

2009-02-12T08:24:00.001-08:00

I'm so excited to share that we have secured exclusivity with yet another fabulous bridal gown designer.Her name is Lea-Ann Belter and I will be receiving a few of her gowns within the next 3-4 weeks.It is definitely difficult to find designers that meet my requirements, but not impossible! And Lea-Ann Belter exudes femininity, romance and quality. I look forward to see how the line does here in Ottawa.

On a side note, I'll be traveling to New York City in early April to attend the Wedding Channel Couture Show, the biggest retail trade show around! It is a great excuse to visit the Big Apple but even better because I'll get to see the latest bridal gown trends for Fall 2009 in person.

New to blogging!

2009-02-05T14:50:00.000-08:00

A friend recommended that I start a blog not only to discuss the trials and tribulations of the bridal business, but also to market my new boutique online.

So where do I start?

Well, I opened Mia Bridal Co. in May 2008 in Ottawa, ON.
So far things are going well, we've had lots of positive feedback and I look forward to dressing brides and their bridesmaids for many years to come. We carry exclusive designers for both bridal and bridesmaids including, Jim Hjelm, Lazaro, Kenneth Pool, Amsale, Siri, Renella DeFina, Romona Keveza and coming soon, Lea-Ann Belter.

I believe in designer gowns and premium fabrics and it is important to me and my brides that all gowns/dresses are made in North America. These aren't limitations but opportunities to bring the best in bridal fashions to those in the Ottawa/Montreal markets who previously had nowhere to go.

Gowns start at about $2500 and bridesmaid dresses range from about $250-$350 (discounts available for parties of 2 or more).

So, I guess this is a good enough intro for now. I hope to post regularly and share some amazing stories about my experiences as a bridal boutique owner. And you never know, perhaps one day I'll have my own show on TLC about these experiences :)