Crowns & Tiaras

A lovely crystal, pearl and seed bead headpiece

So, I had the opportunity this past Sat. and Sun. to be a judge for the Miss Teen Grand Rapids, pageant. It has been many, many years since I've been involved in anyway with this scene - my last time was as a contestant myself! In many ways, it was refreshing to be surrounded by fresh faces, those kind of at the beginning of discovering who they are, and such optimism. There is always the cynical side of me, that kicks in too and wonders who's dreams they're truly living out...but I stop myself, because I'm there to assist in crowning a young woman, and hopefully use skills I've developed to get to know them a little and encourage their development a little.



It caused me to reflect a little on other times in a woman's life where there is an opportunity for a "crown" and that relates to me and what I do. Being involved in the stage of life where a woman chooses to commit to another individual is quite an honor - one that I take very seriously. Many of us don't take the "headpiece" that we will wear as seriously as we should-perhaps and it becomes an after thought or add-on, rather than part of the ensemble.

I guess I'm old fashioned in that way (however, I prefer to call it classic!). Just as in so many other aspects of our lives, we're in a rush...don't take the time to enjoy the 24 we have in front of us.



Back to considering the piece we adorn our tresses with...let me encourage you to treat it also as a "big deal"...a completion to the overall look you are trying to establish. If necessary, shop for it on another day - the quest for the right gown can be physically and emotionally draining, so be fresh for this pursuit as well! But...make sure it makes sense with the main garment, that it compliments - but is also at the same time an extension of you! just like your gown.



And just like these lovely young women...your wedding day is another of your crowning moments!

Making something from the old

I am often approached about the use of other gowns- Mom/Grandma/Mom-in-law and if they can be incorporated into the new design.

The simple answer is yes!  And my motto is "anything is possible".  There are multiple ways to add the presence and history into the new design that create something incredibly remarkable.  What I do recommend is making sure that the former owners are willing to let their cherished possession be altered, cut and used in this way.  Next I would do the best job of having these garments professionally cleaned by a reputable dry cleaner who specialize in wedding gowns prior to the designers involvement with these garments.  As special and beautiful as the sentiment of using these garments is, it is courteous to give them to the designer and staff  in the best possible working condition ( and best smelling condition as well).

The conversation between yourself and designer is essential in the final outcome and final design of your gown.  The only limitations to what can be is the current condition of materials of the older gowns and how much material there is.  That said, a clever and talented designer will get the maximum usage or "most bang for your buck" from what they are given to work with.  Keep in mind that there will be considerable time involved in carefully taking apart the gowns, to use the fabric and then the careful handling of the fabrics in cutting and assembling.  This is not a simple or free endeavor - but the end result will be stunning and priceless!

If you simply want to have something from these heirlooms, a very sweet and less expensive route is this as pictured!  Enjoy and let your mind think of all the possibilities ...