Summer is approaching, bringing with it warm sunny days of celebrating with family and friends. For Analea De La Fuente, it’s the time to see her months of work and preparation take center stage, as smiling brides walk down the aisle wearing her custom-designed wedding gowns adorned with hand-embroidered designs, French lace, and the finest Italian silks. With simple flowing shapes and the most intricate details, each dress evokes the dreams and traditions of the bride-to-be. I am in awe of the beauty of her designs, and I am so grateful that she’s taken the time to share her workspace and her thoughts:

“I am currently working with various clients to provide not only a one-of-a-kind gown, but a memorable experience in which they get to see the design and dressmaking process unfold.”

“One of my favorite things is my dress form. She has been the source of many inspirations, and has seen me through many “aha” moments. I absolutely cannot live without my sketchbook or my laptop. They keep me sane, and travel with me at all times. The sketchbook feeds my artistic side – all notes, drawings, and ideas happen there. My laptop keeps me organized, and allows me to ‘run a business.’”

“Most days, I keep a sweater (in case it gets cold), my measuring tape (because there’s always something to measure), and a vase of fresh flowers.”

“We strive to get the most efficient use of our fabrics so as to avoid waste. In many cases, we use vintage laces or beads and reinvent their uses by working them into new designs. I like to recycle buttons, or other heirlooms a bride may have that has meaning – and find innovative ways of using them.”

“The ultimate project would involve the finest silks, threads, and jewels, and handwork, from various eras. Our ultimate goal is to design “museum quality” gowns – something that will be cherished for generations.”

{To read more about Analea, her process for designing each dress, and to see her gorgeous collection of wedding gowns, visit her website, Analea De La Fuente.}

April 19th, 2007