Meet Christina Devine, our absolute drop dead stunner of a bride… the surname says it all really! Christina held her wedding ceremony at City Hall followed by dinner at Asador Restaurant in Dublin… mega chic city wedding vibes! I am not sure I have ever seen our Lotus dress by Alexandra Grecco look so beautiful! I still remember how speechless everyone was in the bridal loft when Christina swished out of the fitting room in Lotus!
We love Lotus for it’s effortlessly cool vibes, the contemporary drape and the glam lux of the silk satin fabric. Christina paired Lotus with some of our fav in-store accessories and a simple bouquet – very considered less-is-more styling – with maximum impact! We asked Christina some questions about her wedding style, how she knew her dress was the one for her and if she has any advice for all you ladies – our other brides-to-be.
Christina, your dress was just made for you! Was it the style you set out looking for or were you surprised with your choice?
I absolutely loved the dress – it was just stunning and felt like pure luxury! I don’t think I would have chosen this dress for myself. If I’m honest, you probably wouldn’t really notice it on the rack (which I didn’t). I originally would have preferred something long sleeved and covered up but that didn’t happen. So I would encourage everyone to try on a range of styles as you never know what will end up suiting you. I initially only went to The White & Gold, which turned out to be the only bridal store I visited, for the experience with my friends. I certainly never imagined myself in anything too bridey as it wasn’t my style, and I felt like it would be too much for a small wedding. So, the fact that I left the store that day having my mind completely changed was such a surprise. However, after seeing and trying on the dresses in store, it was naïve of me to think I wouldn’t have liked anything.
When did you know it was the dress for you?
Honestly, as soon as I walked out and saw it in the mirror. This, coupled with my friends’ reactions. Sorcha just knew to put on a veil and jewellery to complete the look. It feels so cringey saying this, but it was just so beautiful and fit so well, it gave me so much confidence and I knew John would love it.
Who did you bring to your bridal appointment? Did they help you decide on your dress?
Two of my bridesmaids came with me. One of them actually picked out the dress and told me to try it. It wasn’t a style I would naturally go for, so I have her to thank for that (Thank you Karen, you’re the best!). We took a day to think about it afterwards and it was all we could talk about so that was that.
What would you say was your overall wedding style?
The overall aesthetic was a chic city wedding. Everything was quite minimal, with whites and greens for the flowers and table arrangements. I feel like when you have such a stunning venue, dress and the backdrop of Dublin city, the style takes care of itself.
How did you accessorise your dress? Tell us all the jewellery and shoe details!
As it is quite a sleek dress, I wanted to keep the jewellery minimal. I went with a gorgeous pearl drop backlace and a long plain Alexandra Grecco veil from The White & Gold. I got my shoes online from Bella Belle Shoes and they were so comfortable and I wore them all day not a bother.
Any underwear tips for our brides to be?
It was a bit of a challenge finding underwear for the low back, but I didn’t have much time to do so. You could definitely find something with more time and more stock availability if you wanted. I also preferred the dress without any nipple covers. I found double sided tape handy for the top of the dress, especially when you sit down.
Any special moments you treasure from the day?
Waking up in the morning with my hubby-to-be and spending some time together before going on our separate ways. We were able to have a coffee, exchange cards or gifts and just feel excited about the day to come. It was so lovely.
If you could give brides-to-be one piece of solid advice?
If there are things that need to be taken care of on the wedding day, have a list of what needs to be done such as collecting flowers, cards etc. and make sure everyone knows what to do at least the day before. Regardless, make sure the guests have a good idea of the itinerary and any directions or travel that needs to be done. Assign someone to take care of this for you. You’ll be too glam to be dealing with that nonsense. Oh, and have a glass of champagne in your hand to calm the nerves when getting ready – 11 o’clock is not too early!
Who did your hair, make up and photography?
Our hair and makeup was done by two gorgeous sisters from Mullingar – Ruth Cassidy (makeup) and June Murtagh (hair). I found them via Instagram and thankfully they were both free on that date, although I had no idea they were sisters at the time. They were both a dream and such good craic on the day, and I couldn’t recommend them enough. Everyone looked amazing! Our photographer was Pawel Bebenca who is based in Dublin. I found him on Instagram as well and loved his photos. He was such a laugh and told us exactly what to do which was great! We adore the photos.
How did you find your experience at The White and Gold?
The experience was phenomenal. Sorcha honestly goes above and beyond for her customers and was a dream to work with. She made us feel so welcome and comfortable on the day. She is honest in her recommendations and opinions which is so important for any bride looking for a dress as it really is such a huge commitment. The store is such a dream. Make an appointment and stay for the night in Kinsale or Cork, if even for the experience. I wish I could do it all over again.
Thank you Christina 🙂 I absolutely loved having you as one of my W&G brides and am so honoured you chose your bridal look with me. It was the dreamiest appointment meeting you and your lovely girl gang! ♥ Sorcha
Photos by Pawel Bebenca
