Sometimes, the first dress just feels different.
As a bridal shop, one of our favourite parts of what we do is watching a bride have that moment of recognition — when she steps into a wedding dress and, somehow, it feels like it was always meant to be hers. There’s something so special about trusting that feeling and not overthinking what your heart already knows.
For our bride Aisling, that magic happened in one of our Essence of Australia gowns, the showstopping 'Millie'. From the moment she stepped into it, there was something about the dress, the way she felt in it, and the reaction from the people she loved most that made the moment unforgettable.
And sometimes, you just have to trust your gut and hold onto that feeling. Because when a dress gives you that little bit of magic, it’s worth listening to.
Let's hear all about it...
Aisling, firstly tell us about your dress?
I absolutely loved my dress from Pearls & Lace (designer Essence of Australia). This was the first dress I had on! It was everything I thought I was looking for and more. I love the off shoulder style with all the gorgeous embellishment and light glitter through the long train of the dress. It looked absolutely stunning in the Donegal sunshine! This dress had the wow factor and I think I knew it was the one when I seen my mum and sister's reaction when they seen me in, they got a little teary eyed! I tried on a few more in other shops as I felt couldn't pick the first dress I had tried but I always came back to this dress and the feeling I had in it. It just was the one for me!
How did you style your dress?
I chose minimal jewellery to set my look off as I wanted to let the dress do the talking. I borrowed the veil off my friend who also bought it from yourselves at pearl and lace and it set off the look perfectly. I didn't have a set look in mind as such, but knew my hair down and curled would give this dress a slightly more relaxed elegant look. My flowers were colourful peaches and blues which looked great in our photos on the stunning backdrop of lough foyle.
Tell us about your bridal party?
The bridesmaids wore a beautiful one shoulder champagne coloured dress from an online supplier, again beautifully complemented in the donegal sunshine we were so lucky to have on our big day.
What would your advice be for other brides to be?
My advice for brides to be would be to enjoy every minute of the planning. It's all so exciting! Delegate as many small tasks as you can as it can all be so overwhelming, but I promise you it all comes together for the big day! My advice would be, its true what they say the day is a whirlwind and goes by so fast! Take 10 minutes away with your partner to let it all sink in. Just remember, you two did all this and it's your start of your forever! Enjoy every little minute of it all.
What was your most memorable moment of your special day?
My most memorable moment was seeing my beautiful wife standing at the end of the aisle, and the sheer happiness and joy leaving the ceremony room surrounded by everyone we love, as a married couple. I hope to remember that moment for a lifetime!
Thank you Aisling & Jade for sharing a little glimpse into your beautiful day and for letting us be part of your story. Your words are a lovely reminder to trust your instinct, hold onto the magic, and enjoy every moment — because the memories made are what stay with you forever. 🤍
