Real Bride Maddie wears Elizabeth by Elysian Bridal
When Maddie began her bridal journey, she envisioned a gown that would harmonise perfectly with her country wedding venue. Drawn to intricate designs and tulle skirts, she even considered having two dresses to capture her whimsical and timeless ideal. Her goal was a gown that radiated classic charm without falling into fleeting trends. With florals and wooden decor enhancing the natural beauty of her setting, Maddie sought a romantic, relaxed atmosphere that echoed the rustic aesthetic of her surroundings. Though initially torn between a fitted silhouette and an A-line gown, her vision gradually crystallised into what eventually led her to saying YES! to Elizabeth by Elysian Bridal.
Maddie’s Inspiration
The Path to Elizabeth
Maddie’s search for the perfect dress began with a recommendation from a friend who had found her gown at TVC. Excited yet nervous, Maddie booked her first bridal consultation, where stylists Jess C and Savannah made her feel at ease. Together, they explored various styles, aligning choices with Maddie’s preferences.
Initially, Maddie envisioned a dramatic train and was keen on avoiding strapless designs. She also recognised the practicality of lightweight dresses for her outdoor venue. It was during her second visit to TVC, Savannah introduced Maddie to Elizabeth by Elysian Bridal. The gown’s square neckline caught her attention, and alongside the sweeping train, both elements she had gravitated towards even before she had stepped foot into a boutique. As Maddie tried on Elizabeth, she realised it met every criterion on her mental list. The cherry on top? A mini photoshoot, complete with a veil which helped her visualise the complete bridal ensemble. After trying on a few more dresses, Maddie returned to Elizabeth, confident it was the perfect choice.
Elizabeth epitomises sophistication with her square neckline and shoulder straps, ensuring a secure fit that dispels any concerns about slipping. Vertical seams cinch the waist and extend into a voluminous skirt with a daring leg split and a grand cathedral-length train. Crafted from luminous satin mikado, the gown radiates refinement and embodies timelessness—an unmistakable sign this was the perfect choice.
Maddie and Nick’s Wedding Day
In a spur of the moment, Maddie and Nick decided to bring their wedding date forward and elope with their nearest and dearest. On their wedding day, Maddie was thrilled to finally wear Elizabeth. Despite a few pre-wedding jitters, Maddie felt radiant as she stepped into her dress and perched upon a horse drawn carriage as she arrived at the ceremony, it was not just the gown’s beauty that captivated her guests but how it so-perfectly reflected her personality. Maddie felt elegant, confident, and entirely herself—a sentiment echoed by her loved ones.
Maddie's Tips
Maddie’s advice for other brides-to-be is to trust their instincts and not let the process become overwhelming. While it’s easy to be swayed by trends or others’ opinions, the most important factor is choosing a gown that feels authentic to you. Although Maddie initially saved floral, ornate gowns online for their trendiness and fit with her rustic venue, she found herself drawn to a simpler, more minimalist design. "Ultimately, it doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks—it’s about what makes you feel the most beautiful," Maddie advises. She also encourages brides not to stress if they don’t find the one on their first try; sometimes, the journey itself is part of the process.
Reflecting on Her Experience
Reflecting on her dress-shopping experience, Maddie acknowledges moments of doubt and confusion. At times, she felt overwhelmed and questioned whether she was experiencing the expected emotional reaction to each gown. Despite trying on many stunning dresses, none elicited the profound response she anticipated. However, when she found Elizabeth, the absence of tears was inconsequential. The gown checked all her boxes and was the one she could truly envision walking down the aisle in.
Maddie’s Dream Team
Photographer - @emmajadephotographer | Planner - @limitlessweddingplanning | Celebrant - @married_by_eryn | Catering - @97thstreet_kitchen | Bartending Float - @thetipsymare.au | Hair - @puzzleshairdesigns | Horse drawn carriage - @drayhorseshire | @berryvintagehire | @getliteventrentals | Dress - @theveilcollective | Bride - @madelinebradley