Imported vs. Designed: What Every Bride Should Know Before Buying Her Dress

The new “couture” mirage: when resale poses as design

Walk into certain South African bridal boutiques today and you’ll hear familiar phrases like professional couture, tiny margins, and we don’t rip off brides. The story sounds comforting: curated gowns, expert advice, and pricing that’s supposedly as fair as possible. But a growing pattern in the market suggests something different. Many of these stores aren’t design houses at all. They are resellers who import generic gowns from factories in China, rebrand the experience, and present the result as near-cost couture.

Importing itself isn’t the problem. China produces garments at every level of quality, and some importers are honest about what they sell. The concern is the illusion: when resale is presented as bespoke design, when “low margin” claims disguise healthy markups, and when the language of design is used without the real understanding of fabric, pattern, fit, and construction.

The economics tell an interesting story. Factory prices for common silhouettes such as A-line lace, mermaid with train, ballgown with applique, and simple A-line designs often start between about $150 and $320. Once converted and uplifted for customs value, duties of around 45 percent and VAT are applied. The landed cost for many gowns ends up in the mid-thousands of rand range. Add shipping, clearing, and basic handling, and you are still often below the retail price of a custom locally designed gown.

Then there are the operational realities that glossy storefronts don’t mention. Many factories require a minimum order of two dresses per style, which encourages variety on the rails but very little depth of knowledge. Shipping by sea can take five to six months before the gowns even arrive. Once they do, alteration fees are added to make a factory-standard dress fit an individual bride, turning a pre-made import into something that only appears custom.

This isn’t to say all importers are misleading clients. But it does challenge the idea that these boutiques are running on razor thin margins out of kindness to brides. When base costs sit thousands of rand below the ticket price, and alteration charges are routine, “barely covering costs” becomes a hard story to believe.

Now compare that to South African designers who actually pattern, cut, and build gowns from scratch. Their studios carry costs that aren’t always obvious: pattern drafting, test fittings, fabric testing, responsible sourcing, paying skilled artisans, and the many hours of hand finishing. These designers are the true keepers of craft. They know how to balance a bodice so lace motifs align perfectly, how different satins behave under lights, where boning should end for a smooth neckline, and which lace holds its shape after steaming. This expertise gives a gown longevity, comfort, and graceful movement — not just beauty on a hanger.

When you add up the real cost of an imported gown — factory price, shipping, duties, VAT, retail markup, and alteration fees — the final figure often matches that of a local designer commission. But with a local designer you get a pattern made for your body, fabric chosen for drape and quality, and fittings that refine the gown as it’s created, not repaired after arrival. You also invest in South African jobs, skills, and creative heritage — things we lose when reselling replaces real dressmaking.

If you’ve already bought from a reseller, there’s no shame in that. Many brides look beautiful in imported dresses, and a skilled seamstress can make them shine. The issue isn’t personal choice, it’s transparency. Brides deserve to know whether a gown is factory made and adjusted afterward, or crafted locally for them from the start. They deserve to know whether “professional couture” means genuine design work or just clever marketing.

Before you sign, ask a few simple questions:

• Who designed and patterned this dress?

• Where was it made, and what fabrics were used?

• What alterations will be needed, and how much will they cost?

• Can structural or design changes be made in-house if necessary?

Good boutiques, whether they import or design, will answer these questions honestly. But it’s time to retire the myth that resale dressed up as couture is the only fair-priced option. For many brides, a truly South African gown created from scratch with local skill offers equal value, less risk, and something far more meaningful: a dress made by the very hands that keep our fashion industry alive.

One Dress, Two Looks: The Bridal Trend Taking Over 2025

Why Detachable Bridal Details Are Everywhere

Brides in 2025 want more than a single look. From New York to Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week, designers are showcasing overskirts, removable sleeves, and dramatic capes that can be taken off after the ceremony. The result? A gown that transforms seamlessly from aisle-ready elegance to reception-party freedom.

This trend isn’t just about fashion—it’s about value and versatility. Instead of buying two dresses, brides can invest in a single gown with modular details, creating multiple moments without doubling the cost.

Overskirts: From Princess to Party

Detachable overskirts have become the star of the two-in-one bridal look. Worn over a fitted gown, they add volume and drama for the ceremony, then unclip or unfasten for a sleek, modern silhouette when it’s time to dance.

At Bridal Alchemy, we recommend lightweight tulle or organza overskirts for South African summer weddings. They give movement without too much heat. For winter brides, satin or mikado overskirts create structure and regal presence.

Sleeves That Disappear

Statement sleeves are a 2025 favourite—think puffed organza, lace bell sleeves, or pearl-embellished cuffs. But not every bride wants sleeves all night. With detachable options, you can walk down the aisle in dramatic sleeves and slip them off for the reception.

Our seamstresses design sleeves with discreet loops, poppers, or snap fasteners, so the transition is smooth and secure. It’s the perfect compromise between trend and comfort.

Capes: The Modern Train

For brides who love drama but don’t want a cathedral-length veil, capes are the answer. A detachable cape can be embellished with lace, pearls, or beadwork, flowing behind you as you walk. Later, remove it to reveal a lighter, fuss-free silhouette.

This trend is especially popular for brides who want to change their look for photos—grand ceremony shots with the cape on, then intimate, carefree images without it.

Why South African Brides Love This Trend

• Budget-friendly glamour – One gown, multiple looks.

• Practicality – Easier to move and dance after the ceremony.

• Personalisation – Brides can mix and match details to reflect their style.

• Weather-ready – Layers that can be added or removed depending on the season.

At Bridal Alchemy, we’ve seen a surge in requests for detachable details during fittings. Brides love the flexibility—whether it’s a lace overskirt for photos, sleeves for the ceremony, or a cape for that once-in-a-lifetime entrance.

Ready to Design Your Two-in-One Look?

If you’re dreaming of a gown that transforms with your day, our team at Bridal Alchemy can help you design or alter the perfect dress. From overskirts to sleeves to capes, we’ll tailor each detail to your vision.

✨ Book Your Appointment today to explore our custom detachable options.

Why we cannot support Shein and Temu

Why Bridal Alchemy Supports a Local Boycott of Shein & Temu: The True Cost of Ultra-Cheap Chinese Fast Fashion

In a world where the lure of ultra‑low prices is hard to resist, South African consumers are flocking to platforms like Shein and Temu for bargain clothing. Yet, for businesses like Bridal Alchemy, the long‑term impact of such convenience is anything but affordable. Here’s why we advocate for boycotting these Chinese direct‑to‑consumer giants—and putting local industry first.

The Real Impact on South African Businesses
Recent research by the Localisation Support Fund (LSF) reveals a worrying trend: from 2020 to 2024, Shein and Temu formed a growing wedge in our textile, clothing, and footwear sector. In 2024 alone, they generated R7.3 billion in sales—3.6% of the entire R‑CTFL market and 37% of e‑commerce within that sector. This surge corresponded with an estimated R960 million in lost manufacturing sales, 2,818 unrealised manufacturing jobs, and 5,282 unmaterialised retail jobs The Business of Fashion+11Business & Human Rights Resource Centre+11IOL+11.

If these trends continue, over 34,000 South African jobs could vanish by 2030—splitting across manufacturing and retail Bizcommunity+1. These are not just statistics—they represent families, livelihoods, and years of craftsmanship and training that are being eradicated by the convenience of rock‑bottom foreign prices.

Pros of Cheap Chinese Imports—and Why They Aren’t Enough
On the consumer side, lowered prices mean improved access to clothing for lower‑income households and greater purchasing power. Cheap imports are often framed as economic benefits through enhanced variety and affordability Taylor & Francis Online+15ResearchGate+15YouTube+15.

Yet, those savings come at a far steeper price for the local economy. As local businesses shutter, we lose accumulated skills in garment manufacturing, weaken our local supply chains, and sacrifice long‑term industrial resilience. Consumer dependence on imported fast fashion also drives short‑term thinking—encouraging disposable clothing cycles, poorer quality, and environmental degradation The Cool Down.

Shein and Temu’s Growing Local Presence
Even more worrying: Temu has established a local warehouse, lowering delivery times, expanding reach, and deepening its footprint in our market Reuters+12Business & Human Rights Resource Centre+12IOL+12.

Progress at the Policy Level
To level the playing field, South Africa recently closed a tax loophole (the “de minimis” provision) which allowed low‑value parcels to enter with lower duties and no VAT—pressuring local e‑com giants like Shein and Temu to raise prices and allowing local brands to compete more fairly Daily Investor+9Reuters+9The Business of Fashion+9.

Conclusion: Why Local Businesses Must Take a Stand
Cheap prices often blind us to the bigger picture: every bargain bought from Shein or Temu chips away at our local industries, erodes our workforce’s skill base, and accelerates job losses. As a local garment manufacturer, Bridal Alchemy believes that sustainable development, skills retention, and community resilience are worth more than fleeting savings. We urge consumers and fellow businesses alike to reflect before clicking “buy”—and to choose brands that invest in South Africa’s future.

Sources

LSF report on Shein & Temu job losses and market share in South Africa News24+5Business & Human Rights Resource Centre+5The Business of Fashion+5

1. Projection of 34,000 job losses by 2030 in manufacturing and retail Bizcommunity+1

2. Benefits of cheap Chinese imports vs. local industrial harm IOL+11ResearchGate+11commoditytradeobserver.com+11

3. Environmental & economic impact of fast‑fashion models The Cool Down+1

4. Temu local expansion data YouTube+12Business & Human Rights Resource Centre+12IOL+12

5. Closing of the de minimis loophole and impact on pricing Reuters

We want to celebrate your process on YouTube!

Bridal Alchemy Brand Video

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Our YouTube channel.

We're thrilled to announce the launch of our official YouTube channel, Bridal Alchemy, a new extension of our commitment to celebrating the beauty and individuality of every bride we have the honor of dressing.

At Bridal Alchemy, we specialize in creating bespoke wedding couture for the South African bridal market. Our YouTube channel showcases our design capabilities and the unique transformations we bring to life.

Our vision for the Bridal Alchemy YouTube channel is to create personalized video edits for each of our past brides, celebrating their unique beauty and the joy of their special day. These videos will serve as timeless keepsakes, allowing our brides to relive their wedding moments and share them with loved ones.

We invite you to subscribe to our channel and join us in honoring the elegance and individuality of our brides. Your support enables us to continue crafting these heartfelt tributes and to celebrate the love stories that inspire us every day.

Thank you for being a part of the Bridal Alchemy family.

15 Biggest Regrets Brides Have About Their Wedding Day - And How To Avoid Them

15 Biggest Regrets Brides Have About Their Wedding Day

(And How You Can Avoid Them)
By Bridal Alchemy

Your wedding day is one of the most significant moments of your life — a celebration of love, commitment, and new beginnings. But with so much pressure to make everything perfect, it's easy to overlook small details that may later become big regrets.

At Bridal Alchemy, we've worked with hundreds of brides and heard their stories. Here are the top 15 most common wedding day regrets — and how you can sidestep them for a day that’s truly magical and stress-free.

1. Not Hiring a Professional Photographer

Many brides regret trying to save money by hiring an amateur or relying on a friend. Your wedding photos are your forever memories — investing in a skilled photographer is worth every cent.

2. Wearing Uncomfortable Shoes

Painful feet can ruin your ability to enjoy your day. Brides often say they wish they'd chosen style and comfort — or at least brought a second pair for dancing.

3. Neglecting to Eat or Stay Hydrated

It’s shockingly common for brides to forget to eat. Between nerves, makeup, and tight schedules, meals get skipped — leaving them feeling faint or irritable. Plan snack breaks!

4. Not Taking a Moment to Soak It All In

The day flies by in a blur. Many brides say they wish they'd paused, breathed deeply, and taken mental snapshots to remember the moment.

5. Letting Others Control Their Vision

From pushy relatives to overbearing planners, many brides regret not standing firm on their own ideas. It’s your wedding. Your vision matters most.

6. Skipping a Hair and Makeup Trial

Some brides say they didn’t feel like themselves, or worse — hated their look. Always do a trial to make sure you feel confident, comfortable, and camera-ready.

7. Not Budgeting for Alterations

Many brides underestimate the importance of proper dress alterations. A gown should fit you perfectly. Set aside time and budget to tailor it with care.

(At Bridal Alchemy, we offer expert alterations in-house — because no two brides are the same.)

8. Overplanning the Timeline

A jam-packed schedule can leave no room for spontaneity or mishaps. Build in buffer time to breathe and be present.

9. Letting Stress Take Over

Looking back, many brides say they regret letting small things ruin their mood. Delegate tasks, hire a coordinator, and focus on the joy, not the logistics.

10. Not Capturing Video

Photos are timeless, but nothing captures vows, toasts, and laughter like a video. Brides often wish they'd hired a videographer — even a simple one.

11. Missing Moments with Guests

It's easy to get caught up in formalities and miss quality time with guests. Schedule time for mingling — especially with those who traveled far.

12. Not Practicing Walking in the Dress

Walking in heels, on grass, in a long train — it’s harder than it looks. Practice walking, sitting, and dancing in your dress before the big day.

13. Overdoing DIY Projects

Pinterest is inspiring, but DIY can be exhausting and stressful. Brides often regret overcommitting to handmade details they didn't have time to finish.

14. Forgetting to Pack an Emergency Kit

Think fashion tape, stain remover, safety pins, breath mints, and a mini sewing kit. You may not need it — but if you do, you’ll be glad it’s there.

15. Worrying About Pleasing Everyone

Trying to make every guest happy can lead to disappointment. Brides who focused on their love story walked away with no regrets.

Final Thoughts

No wedding is “perfect” — but it can be beautiful, personal, and deeply memorable when you plan with intention. At Bridal Alchemy, we’re here to help you make confident decisions that feel aligned with who you are.

Let us take the stress out of one of the biggest decisions you’ll make — your wedding dress. Visit our studio in Johannesburg North, and let’s create something that leaves no room for regrets.

💍 Top 15 Things Brides Forget on Their Wedding Day

1. Eat Breakfast
   A nourishing meal in the morning helps sustain energy and keeps nerves in check.

2. Stay Hydrated
   With all the excitement, it’s easy to forget to drink enough water — especially if it’s a hot day.

3. Pack an Emergency Kit
   Include things like safety pins, painkillers, fashion tape, mints, tissues, and band-aids. You’ll thank yourself later.

4. Break in Their Shoes
   New shoes + a full day = a recipe for sore feet unless you’ve worn them in beforehand.

5. Go to the Bathroom Before the Dress Goes On
   Simple, but crucial — especially with gowns that are difficult to maneuver in.

6. Bring a Copy of the Timeline for the Bridal Party
   It helps everyone stay on track and avoid unnecessary confusion during prep and photos.

7. Delegate Key Tasks
   Brides shouldn’t be chasing down vendors or adjusting decor. Assign trusted friends or a coordinator to handle those.

8. Practice Their Vows (If Personal)
   Reading them aloud beforehand boosts confidence and smooths out awkward wording.

9. Charge Their Phone (or Give It to Someone)
   Whether for last-minute calls or quick snaps, a charged phone can come in handy.

10. Schedule Time Alone with the Groom
    A private moment together, even 10 minutes, can ground you and help soak in the day.

11. Have a Touch-Up Kit Handy
    Lip gloss, blotting paper, bobby pins, and perfume are essentials for staying fresh.

12. Eat Something Before the Ceremony
    Light snacks help keep your blood sugar up and avoid dizzy spells.

13. Practice Walking in the Dress
    Especially with a train or veil — know how to move gracefully and confidently.

14. Communicate Photo Must-Haves to the Photographer
    Don't assume your photographer knows which guests or moments are most meaningful to you.

15. Take a Mental Snapshot
    Pause during the day — look around, breathe, and really feel it. These memories are what last.

Top 15 Affordable Wedding Guest Gifts People Will Love

1. Mini Potted Succulents or Herbs

• Cute, eco-friendly, and decorative.

• Can double as table décor and place card holders.

2. Personalized Bottle Openers

• Functional and easy to customize with names or the wedding date.

• Great for beer- or wine-loving guests.

3. Locally Made Mini Jars of Honey or Jam

• A sweet touch that supports local artisans.

• Add a custom tag that says “Spread the Love.”

4. Scented Soy Wax Candle Tins

• Choose scents that reflect your wedding season.

• Elegant, compact, and useful.

5. Hangover Kits

• Include items like mints, painkillers, a hydration sachet, and an eye mask.

• Funny and useful after a big celebration.

6. Mini Bottles of Alcohol or Sparkling Juice

• Tiny champagnes, whisky, or wine are crowd-pleasers.

• Add a cute “Cheers to Love” label.

7. Customized Seed Packets

• Great for outdoor or garden weddings.

• Eco-conscious and symbolic: “Let Love Grow.”

8. Lip Balm or Hand Cream Tins

• Especially useful in winter or dry climates.

• Choose scents and packaging that match your wedding colors.

9. Personalized Coasters

• Stylish and useful at home.

• Great if you want to include a monogram or meaningful quote.

10. Mini Hot Sauce Bottles

• For spicy-loving couples!

• Label idea: “Thanks for bringing the heat.”

11. Eco-Friendly Tote Bags

• Foldable ones with a cute design or custom quote.

• Handy, reusable, and appreciated.

12. Engraved Wooden Keychains

• Lightweight and elegant.

• A subtle keepsake guests can use daily.

13. Sweet Treat Bags

• Fill with luxury chocolates, nougat, fudge, or candy.

• Add a handwritten thank-you tag for a personal touch.

14. Custom Bookmark Favors

• Ideal for book-loving couples.

• Can include your wedding date and a favorite quote.

15. Tiny Essential Oil Jars

• Calming blends like lavender or eucalyptus.

• Wellness + style in one small gift.

Top 15 Wedding Decor Mistakes To Avoid

1. Ignoring the Venue's Natural Aesthetic

Mistake: Choosing a décor theme that clashes with the venue.
Fix: Work with the space, not against it. A rustic barn doesn’t need glam chandeliers; an art gallery doesn’t need vintage lace.

2. Overcrowding the Space

Mistake: Trying to cram too many tables, centerpieces, or furniture into one area.
Fix: Leave enough room for people to move around comfortably. Less can be more.

3. Skimping on Lighting

Mistake: Relying solely on overhead or natural light.
Fix: Add layers—fairy lights, candles, uplighting—to create mood and depth.

4. Inconsistent Theme or Color Palette

Mistake: Mixing too many styles or colors, creating visual chaos.
Fix: Stick to 2–3 main colors and one unifying theme or vibe.

5. Forgetting the Ceilings and Vertical Space

Mistake: Only decorating tables and floors.
Fix: Add drama with hanging florals, drapery, or chandeliers to draw the eye up.

6. Not Considering Guest Comfort

Mistake: Beautiful but impractical chairs, cramped seating, or no shade/shelter.
Fix: Ensure seating is comfortable and weather-appropriate.

7. Overspending on Small Details No One Notices

Mistake: Blowing budget on monogrammed napkins or imported rose petals.
Fix: Prioritize décor elements that have the most visual impact—backdrops, lighting, and table styling.

8. Going Too Heavy on Trends

Mistake: Using every popular trend from Pinterest.
Fix: Incorporate trends subtly. Focus on timeless, personal elements instead.

9. Cluttered Centerpieces

Mistake: Over-the-top table décor that blocks guests' view or takes up too much space.
Fix: Choose low or narrow centerpieces that allow conversation.

10. Forgetting the Ceremony Space

Mistake: Pouring all décor into the reception and neglecting the ceremony site.
Fix: Add at least a focal point like an arch, floral aisle markers, or backdrop.

11. Poor Table Layout

Mistake: Misaligned tables or a confusing floor plan.
Fix: Work with your planner or venue coordinator to optimize flow and visibility.

12. Not Personalizing the Décor

Mistake: Generic décor that doesn't reflect the couple.
Fix: Add personal touches—custom signs, family photos, meaningful quotes, or cultural elements.

13. Clashing Florals and Greenery

Mistake: Choosing flowers that don’t match the palette or season.
Fix: Consult a florist and choose seasonal blooms that complement your scheme.

14. Not Doing a Décor Rehearsal or Test Setup

Mistake: Assuming everything will come together perfectly on the day.
Fix: Do a mock setup beforehand, even if it’s just one table, to visualize the result.

15. Forgetting About Nighttime Atmosphere

Mistake: Planning décor only for daylight hours.
Fix: Ensure the evening setting is cozy and ambient with appropriate lighting and candles.

Top 15 Winter Bridal Trends in South Africa for 2025

Top 15 Winter Bridal Trends in South Africa for 2025

Winter weddings in South Africa are becoming more popular than ever, offering cooler weather, golden afternoon light, and stunning moody palettes that summer simply can’t match. As we step into 2025, bridal fashion and styling are embracing bold elegance, warm textures, and timeless romance. Whether you're a minimalist or a dramatic bride, this year’s winter trends have something just for you.

Here are the top 15 winter bridal trends taking over South African weddings in 2025:

1. Luxe Long Sleeves

Brides are embracing long-sleeved gowns with intricate lace, illusion mesh, and beading that provides warmth without sacrificing elegance. It’s classic, regal, and perfect for chilly weather.

2. Velvet Bridal Capes

Swap the traditional veil for a rich velvet cape or shawl. Deep jewel tones like emerald, burgundy, and navy are making waves among South African designers.

3. Dramatic High Necks

High-neck wedding dresses are having a revival in 2025, offering a mix of Victorian romance and contemporary chic—ideal for winter weddings with a touch of drama.

4. 3D Floral Appliqués

Winter blooms come to life in 3D floral embellishments on dresses, veils, and accessories. These textures pop beautifully in soft winter light and photography.

5. Bonbon Stretch Fabric Wrap Dresses

The wrap-style bridal dress made from stretch Bonbon fabric continues to rise in popularity—flattering, warm, and incredibly comfortable for brides who want both beauty and freedom of movement.

6. Champagne and Nude Hues

Instead of traditional white, brides are opting for champagne, blush, or nude-toned gowns that contrast beautifully against South Africa’s wintry landscapes.

7. Faux Fur and Feather Accents

Winter 2025 is all about texture layering. Brides are adding faux fur stoles, feather trims, or full wraps to their ensembles for that luxe, snowy vibe.

8. Moody Florals and Dark Bouquets

Florals are shifting to deep reds, maroons, plum, and even black-centered blooms. Expect to see cascading bouquets and dark foliage playing a central role in bridal styling.

9. Statement Bridal Boots

Say goodbye to stilettos. Bridal boots, especially in ivory lace or suede, are trending hard this winter—practical, stylish, and great for outdoor ceremonies.

10. Layered Skirts and Overskirts

Brides are loving removable overskirts or tiered tulle layers for added warmth and volume. It also creates a dramatic moment for the reception "reveal".

11. Pearl-Embellished Details

Pearls are no longer just for jewelry—they’re turning up on veils, bodices, gloves, and shoes. The result? A subtle shimmer that catches candlelight beautifully.

12. Bridal Gloves

From satin opera gloves to sheer embellished pairs, gloves are back as a refined winter bridal statement in 2025.

13. Warm Lighting and Candlelit Aesthetics

Think hundreds of candles, amber fairy lights, and gold accents. South African winter weddings are shifting to romantic, intimate lighting for dreamy reception vibes.

14. Textured Hairstyles and Hair Accessories

Brides are embracing loose waves, elegant braids, and adorning them with crystal pins, velvet bows, or pearl hair combs for a soft but styled winter look.

15. Eco-Conscious Winter Styling

2025 brides are going sustainable—locally sourced florals, ethical fabrics, and handmade accessories are on the rise, giving weddings a meaningful, conscious edge.

Final Thoughts

Winter weddings in South Africa offer a unique opportunity to lean into elegance, comfort, and rich aesthetics. These trends for 2025 show that cold-weather weddings can be just as stylish—if not more so—than their summer counterparts.

At Bridal Alchemy, we stay ahead of the curve by offering custom bridal gowns and accessories that reflect your personal style while incorporating the latest trends. Whether you're dreaming of a velvet cape, a wrap dress in Bonbon fabric, or a pearl-dusted veil, we’re here to make your winter bridal vision come to life.

Almost at the end of the lockdown now...

Wow? What can we say?...

It has been almost 5 months since our last post. The global pandemic has shaken our business to its very foundations and we would be lying if we said that we didn’t come out of it unscathed. But not to worry, we are still in one piece with our chins above water. Many of our friends in the wedding industry have had to close down due to financial pressures and the lack of income.

We don’t really know how long the market will take to recover. As it stands now, more than 80% of the weddings that were scheduled for 2020 have been postponed to 2021. Not only that, but many couples have been forced to cut down significantly on their respective wedding budgets.

Over here at Bridal Alchemy we were forced to reinvent ourselves. The bridal gown business obviously came to a complete standstill. So we did what many others did. We started to produce PPE products. Over time the market became saturated with COVID masks. We figured why not leverage our skillset to embark on producing a range of winter fashion items. That eventually saw the birth of a new brand called Alchemy Clothing. Our portfolio quickly grew to over a hundred items. The public loved what we were doing. We started to realise that this is something that we would like to continue doing beyond the lockdown. We will obviously still be making bridal gowns as well. That is what we are famous for :)

We wanted to take a moment to show you the faces of our amazing team who have done their very best to help us get through this difficult time. They are all individually skilled to bring something special to our business. We would not have made it without them.

Much Love and Hope,

Ray & Lizette

Coronavirus Announcement

Herewith, our COVID-19 policy announcement.

Bridal Alchemy operates from a private home-based studio. We are trying to do our very best in terms of minimising our contact with the public. To that end there are quite a few things which we CAN do to try to limit both our, and our customers' potential exposure to the Coronavirus. For example, we are following strict hygiene protocols in terms of disinfecting our working environment, ourselves, as well as our customers at every greeting and departure point. Facemasks, handwashing and alcohol based hand-sanitizer application is being used throughout the course of the day. Our staff have been thoroughly briefed on the proper preventative care measures and they will be monitored closely for any signs of illness. We respectfully request that our customers please refrain (for the time being) from bringing along any children during their dress fitting appointments. If you are not feeling well, then we strongly encourage that you reach out to us electronically to reschedule your consults for another time.

We want to thank our customers for their understanding during this difficult time.

Please take care of yourselves and your families. Lizette and I are both available should you need to contact us via phone or email - see the contact tab for our details.

Kind regards

Ray & Lizette

Creating with Peach Tree Productions

Wrap Dress Magic

We recently decided to embark on a mission to create a promotional video for our multiway wrap dress product. We needed a partner with a “can-do” attitude. Because what we wanted was a very complicated quick change sequence of our dresses gliding across the screen - this was no small request…

We found the perfect partner in an owner operated videography company called Peach Tree Productions.

In the past, we would use photos try to convey just how versatile this little dress was. Not only that, but when you consider what the market is currently offering by way of bridesmaids dresses, then the price-points tend to start at around R800 and up. We offer our wrap dress at R535. So it is a very attractive proposition for our customers. Creating a social media video would allow us to present our wrap dress in a more attractive and exciting way.

David from Peach Tree gave us an awesome final product. Not only that, but he really knew how to work with our models to inspire confidence in their on-screen movement. The final product is now up on our Facebook page and the result speaks for itself. We should add that David also has a division of his business called Peach Tree Weddings. So if you are looking for someone to capture your wedding on video, then look no further. You can reach David at 082 333 1106

Video shoot day

We are super stoked about our video-shoot today. We plan on showcasing our multiway wrap dresses and to demonstrate just how versatile they can be. Peach Tree Productions will be on hand to film our models and the ever dependable Maryke Verster will be taking care of our hair and makeup requirements. We look forward to sharing the final video with you in due course.

Cheers,

Team Bridal Alchemy

When we are asked to reinvent a look...

Our stunning bride Charze approached us with a request to recreate a designer look that she found on the internet. This image shows the quality of our work. Charze’s dress is on the right. Why not email us with a design that you want us to quote you on?…

Black Friday Deal

Our Black Friday deal offers customers the opportunity to take advantage of a reduced price on our Wrap Dress with Mesh overlay. we normally sell this garment at R800 but customers will be able to order the dress at R549 up until Sunday the 25th of November 2018. Send an email with the words “Black Friday” to info@bridalalchemy.co.za and we will send you the ordering template along with the colour charts.

Have a fab day everyone!

From Ray & Lizette

The Design Process

Okay, so you’re thinking of having your very own unique wedding dress designed from scratch. How might that work?…

First and foremost, you’ll need to book an appointment. We have made it a breeze for you to book a consult with us. Simply go to our “CONTACT” tab and fill out the form at the bottom of the page. We will be notified of your appointment request and get it touch to confirm it for you.

As a rule, we try to allocate at least 1.5 hours to our design consults. So keep that in mind when you make your booking.

Once you arrive you will be given the opportunity to try on some of our off the rack dresses. The aim of this will be to give you an insight how certain dress shapes might either work for you, or against you. Remember that our job is to make you look your absolute best. We can only do that by being brutally honest with you.

Once you have finished trying on some styles, our inhouse designer will show you an assortment of fabrics to choose from . She will then start the process of taking your measurements. This is done with meticulous attention to detail. She will also sketch out a design for you that will be based on the shape, the bodice, the back and the embellishments of the gown. These details will include things such as the bead and lace work.

The entire process up until that moment would have been at no cost to you. So even if you chose to walk away, then you would not be charged a cent... Not many design studios are willing to run the risk of spending precious time with a prospective client only to never see them again. But we have a high degree of confidence in our service offering. Because we know that what we do here at Bridal Alchemy is rooted in so much more than just the sale of a gown.

Shortly after your consult is concluded - usually a day or so afterwards - you will receive a formal quote that will stipulate the gown costs to you. This will be broken up into a deposit value as well as the incremental payments that we would expect over time. There will be no hidden costs such as additional alterations etc. In fact, as part of your quote, you will have access to at least three additional fitting consults. Those fittings are for the purposes of performing fine alterations to perfect your gown.

We pride ourselves on the overall quality of our service offering. So why don’t you make a booking and come and talk to us about your big day? We are ready to be of service :)

Wrap Dresses

Infinity wrap dresses continue to be one of the most popular line items that we sell here at Bridal Alchemy. Brides know that they get great value for money. They are also assured that each dress is made to precise measurements as well as the exact colour that the bride wanted. Keep in mind that wrap dresses are extremely flexible in that they can be styled in many different ways. Click HERE for a YouTube how-to video.

If you would like to order your wrap dresses, then simply email info@bridalalchemy.co.za with the words “Wrap Dress Order Form” in the subject line. We will then reply to you with our standard ordering template and our colour options.

Please note that while our September R450 promotional price offering has now expired, that we will continue to offer the price to customers who order 3 pieces or more. If you are ordering fewer than 3 pieces, then the standard price of R535 per dress will apply.

We DO however anticipate that due to the rand/dollar exchange rate, that our textile merchants will be upping their prices to us soon. We will do our best to keep our prices as low as possible.

Kelly Dress

Hot Product

Our Kelly dress has been gaining a lot of attention these last few weeks. It features a sleeved lace bodice with a full circle skirt. It is available in over 40 different colours. The dress can be worn in two ways; an open shoulder - where the extra sleeve is tucked in, or sleeves on both arms. The normal price for the Kelly dress is R950. But if you send an email to info@bridalalchemy.co.za with the words “Kelly Special”, then we will offer it to you at R799 for the remainder of 2018.

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Bridal Alchemy Website Relaunch

We are so excited to announce the launch of our new and reimagined website. Our objective here is to showcase our fashion forward designs as well as our overall value proposition.

Our “news” tab will be used to share info about upcoming promotions, product launches and other exciting developments as we go along. With that in mind, we would like to remind you that Bridal Alchemy is structured around three core business offerings. They include the following:

• Bespoke Bridal Gown design

• A Wide Range of Bridal Entourage Garments

• Bridal Accessories Veils, Garters etc.

We also encourage our visitors to take a deep dive into our Facebook social media feed. It has a massive archive of past brides with lovely stories about their experiences here at Bridal Alchemy.

We look forward to welcoming you to our studio soon.

Lizette & Ray