by Metropol | September 2, 2026 8:33 am
Lisa, next year marks 30 years of Brides of Merivale! Describe the journey?
I started as an 18-year-old who had made some ‘okay’ garments at school. I managed to get a sewing role at Trevina Bridal House and was told I had to learn how to sew straight seams! My early days taught me so much… old school techniques and how to solve problems when difficult designs and challenging shapes were presented definitely helped shape my journey. I’m always grateful for my time there. After working briefly for another business that sold more ready-made products, I saw a gap in the market to provide more fashion forward and contemporary gowns. Somehow I fell into opening Brides of Merivale in 1997. It’s always been rewarding to offer both ready-to-wear imported gowns and a more exclusive made-to-measure service under one roof.
Three decades and thousands of weddings you’ve been a part of, how do you feel looking back on them all?
It’s very humbling. I still have all the cards, photos and messages brides have sent us… it’s wonderful to look back on them.
Over the years, you’ve built a community organically without things like social media, what’s your secret?
Delivering quality products in a relaxed environment with consideration to each client’s needs… customers really respect that. For most brides, the search for a gown is not about high fashion, it’s how you feel. Taking that starting point and evolving a ‘feel’ into a finished look is an art form. We prefer to go about our craft quietly. We’re not loud and ‘out there’ telling everyone how good we are… we just get the best job done on time (which is vital in our industry). I’m incredibly proud to have helped entire families… loyalty is a special thing.
How has the industry evolved over time?
It’s evolved enormously. Around 35 years ago, we were making soft-fit gowns with a lot of appliqued lace motifs, frills and bows that needed corset undergarments. Now, we have sleek styles with everything necessary built into the gown. We have mastered how to enhance each bride’s unique figure instead of trying to cover everything up.
What’s your favourite part of the job and why?
Definitely creating designs and bringing them to life… Oh and opening the boxes when a new product arrives!
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QUICK FIRE QUESTIONS
Your favourite celebrity wedding dress?
There are a few to love… Grace Kelly, a classically stunning gown, and Carolyn Besette-Kennedy, simplistic elegance!
The best memory you have from 30 years selling wedding dresses?
A little boy at his mum’s fitting with wide eyes telling me ‘Mummy looks so beautiful in her dress’. So cute and brought tears all round.
Your go-to piece of advice for a bride with decision fatigue?
Take a step back, block out the chat around you and go with your gut feeling. It’s your day!
The most interesting dress request you’ve ever had?
A red silk two-piece corset top and tailored pants with a stunning Untouched World felted coat. Individual and looked beautiful on the bride!
Your wedding dress ‘hot take’?
Not everyone will love your gown choice… but it’s not their day. Be you!
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