Weddings and lace go hand in hand. Like lyrical works of literature, the handcrafted, elaborate embellishment exudes romance, elegance and sophistication.
After all, royals from Queen Elizabeth I to Princess Grace and Duchess Kate have held an affinity for the material. But, these days, bridal gown couturiers are envisioning the textile in innovative ways.
Here, Marilyn Delchamps and Hannah Manverse model looks sure to make any bride feel like the epitome of beauty captured in the pages of the most iconic love stories.
LEFT Shimmery silver embroidery and a charcoal velvet sash set off intricate detail on an A-line silhouette (Sincerity, Bliss Bridal). Birdcage veil (Bliss Bridal). Bracelet and earrings (I Do Bridal & Formal).
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ABOVE LEFT A Venice lace overlay stands out against oyster-colored silk on a sweetheart mermaid design (Justin Alexander, Bliss Bridal).Â
ABOVE RIGHT Cap sleeves, intricate beading and chiffon flowers polish off a scalloped Alençon lace gown (Sincerity, Bliss Bridal). Pearl necklace (her own).Â
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ABOVE LEFT A scalloped lace bodice amps up the romance on an empire waist dress (Casablanca, I Do Bridal & Formal). Headband (Francesca’s). Necklaces (her own).
ABOVE RIGHT Sequin and beaded accents with an organza ruffled skirt give the classic textile a modern feel on this halter-style gown (Justin Alexander, Bliss Bridal).
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ABOVE LEFT Shimmery silver embroidery and a charcoal velvet sash set off intricate detail on an A-line silhouette (Sincerity, Bliss Bridal). Birdcage veil (Bliss Bridal). Bracelet and earrings (I Do Bridal & Formal).
ABOVE RIGHT A V-neck lace bodice and billowy layers of chiffon create an ultra-feminine look (Allure Bridals, I Do Bridal & Formal). Hairpiece and earrings (her own).Â
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ABOUT THE LOCATION
The Bragg-Mitchell Mansion has been a historic landmark on Springhill Avenue for more than 150 years. Built in 1855, the mansion belonged to Judge John Bragg. Four other families, including the A.S. Mitchell family, who occupied the property from 1931 to 1965, have owned it. The 13, 000-square-foot Greek Revival is now one of the premier locations for weddings and corporate events. Brides who marry at the Bragg have access to the grounds, patio and first floor of the mansion for eight hours; the bridal suite; a Bragg-Mitchell hostess is on hand for the duration of the wedding; parking for 100 vehicles on site, plus overflow across the street; full access to the mansion and grounds for bridal portraits.
Bragg-Mitchell Mansion • 1906 Spring Hill Ave. 471-6364. braggmitchellmansion.com
RESOURCES
Bliss Bridal • 19 N. Church St., Fairhope. 990-3244. beablissbride.com
Francesca’s • Legacy Village, 9 Du Rhu Drive, Suite 350. 342-1959. francescas.com
I Do Bridal & Formal • 6920 Airport Blvd., Suite 103. 447-2784. idobridalformal.com
text and styling by Mallory Boykin • photos by Matthew Coughlin • hair by Lindsey Duke • makeup by Natalie Kennedy