Real Brides: Carolyn

My husband Jack and I met on Tinder, of all places, if you can believe that. I was new to Dallas and he, a true Texan, took me to the rodeo for our first date. Eighteen months later, while we were visiting my family for the holidays, Jack proposed in New York City under the Rockefeller Christmas tree. For a variety of reasons we didn't want to wait the traditional year or more to get married. So we set a date for July 2017, making our engagement (i.e. wedding prep time) just 6 months. When I was ready to search for a dress most stores made me feel pressured to choose right away. Or I was an inconvenience by needing a dress "rush" ordered. I finally called The Blushing Bride Boutique in Frisco, Texas and the woman who answered the phone said, "Don't you worry honey. You come on in and we'll find you something. We'll fix you right up," in a sweet southern tone that I've come to adore in my time here. I should pause to mention I originally only wanted a dress with straps and lace. Beading was not really in my mind or was strapless for that matter. Although I was searching high and low for a dress that not only fit my criteria but also had a "Gatsby" vibe. I wanted the whole wedding to reflect the golden age of glamour. To be classy and timeless. I wound up falling in love with not one but two Val Stefani Bridal dresses! It was so hard to choose. Neither fit my imagination, but they were better than I had envisioned. Stunning really. (Tip to brides, go into shopping open minded.) I trolled the internet to find images and real weddings with the dresses I liked. I found my gown on Val Stefani's Instagram account with the phrase "Our style, Elise, is perfect for a glamorous glitter and gold wedding." Could it have been any more of a sign?! I went back and bought the dress right away. I loved my dress so much. The Swarovski crystal and beaded details are just over the top gorgeous. The only real disappointment is not knowing if or when I'll be able to wear it again. I've contemplated using the material to make it into a cocktail dress that I can wear to other formal occasions. But I don't think I'm quite ready to alter the beautiful piece of artwork that it is just yet. Our wedding was exactly what I envisioned. We were married at Church of the Assumption, the second oldest Catholic Church in Nashville, built in 1859. Our reception was at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center, just a stone's throw from Broadway. Both venues, the first being historic and the second so stately, enhanced our wedding's allure. Guests were invited to wear black tie attire and they did not disappoint! I should add, we chose Nashville as a destination in part due to the somewhat central location between Dallas and New York City. And in part because who doesn't love Nashville?! It's so fun! My Val Stefani Bridal dress was perfect for every step of the day. Photography by Matt Andrews Photography.