Our First NYFW
It's not every day you find yourself sewing beads onto wedding dresses, right before packing them up for New York Fashion Week. Yes, you heard that right—our first NYFW adventure began with us literally bringing the sparkle to our gowns minutes before departure on an airplane.
It sounds crazy, doesn't it?
But that was just the beginning of our first NYFW.
Three weeks before the event, Debra Navarro, custom jewelry designer, decided to join us. When asked to provide jewelry to add that extra sparkle to our gowns, she didn't hesitate. The collaboration was a dream come true, accentuating our dresses in ways only imagination could limit. Each piece of jewelry complemented the gowns perfectly, elevating the entire look to another level.
Our journey to NYFW was not just about showcasing our collection; it was about bringing our brand's mission to life. Each dress we create is a testament to individuality, elegance, and bespoke design, tailored to reflect the unique personality and love story of every bride. This event was our opportunity to showcase that commitment on one of the world's most prestigious fashion weekends.
This NYFW was particularly special because it marked our first collection debut on the runway. Although it wasn't our first rodeo in New York, this time felt different. This collection was our baby, the embodiment of our vision for bridal fashion, crafted with love, dedication, and an insane amount of coffee and late nights…
The highlight was the moment our collection hit the runway. All the nerves and anticipation melted away, leaving behind a sense of pride and accomplishment. Seeing our creations come to life, embraced by the lights, the music, and the audience's awe, was surreal. It was a validation of our hard work, our vision, and our place in the bridal fashion world.
Our journey wasn't without its challenges. From the cramped and crowded backstage area to the last-minute fittings and alterations, we navigated through the chaos with determination and a touch of grace (if I do say so myself). The support among designers, the shared moments of panic, and the incredible support from our team made every obstacle worth overcoming.
The experience of selecting models, fitting gowns, and making those last-minute adjustments was exhilarating. Every model brought their unique flair and personality to the dresses, transforming them from mere fabric into stories of elegance and beauty. It was amazing to see how each gown found its perfect match, proving that beauty truly comes with diversity.
But it wasn't just about the gowns and the runway. The jewelry, meticulously chosen to complement each dress, played a crucial role in bringing the entire look together. Debra's expertise in selecting the perfect pieces to enhance the neckline and the overall theme of the dress was invaluable.
After the runway, we hit the streets for a photoshoot with Hunter Valentino, a photographer I met in Florida at a business retreat. This part was admittedly a bit rogue, but capturing our collection against the raw backdrop of NYC streets was worth the risk. It showed our gowns in a new light, blending bridal elegance with the city that never sleeps.
As we reflect on our first NYFW, we’re filled with gratitude and excitement for what's to come. This experience was a celebration of creativity, passion, and the unbreakable bond between our team. It was a reminder that in the world of bridal fashion, the possibilities are endless.
So, as we continue to dream, create, and inspire, we invite you to join us on this incredible journey. Our NYFW debut may have been our first, but it certainly won't be our last.
Here's to the future, to the brides we've yet to meet, and to the stories we've yet to tell.
Thank you for being part of our story.
Here is the link to the live show! (we start at 58:06)
-Vanya Designs Bridal
