Say yes to the dress (shop)!
Say yes to the dress (shop)!
Hands down one of the biggest and most exciting journeys us girls will ever embark on is the search for ‘the one’. And by ‘the one’, we mean THE (often elusive) wedding gown, because saying yassss to the dress is basically as important as saying yes to your soulmate (jokes…but kinda not jokes.…).
We’re here to help you on your hunt for that dream wedding dress, with a carefully curated list of 9 must-visit GC bridal boutiques. With our guidance, you’re guaranteed to give your forever +1 ‘dem fairy-tale feels, and have your guests gushing…. So here’s to endless love, a show-stopping dress and an open bar!
Grace Loves Lace
Ok, you almost want to get married purely to visit this beyond gorgeous cottage-style showroom. Whether you’re a modern, classic, bohemian or luxe beauty, Grace Loves Lace’s S.T.U.N.N.I.N.G handmade wedding gowns are created from exclusive laces and silks, ethically made in Australia, and scream effortless luxury. In fact, in 2016, ‘The Hollie’ was the “most pinned” wedding dress on Pinterest #CultStatus!
Where: 2 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads
Rosa and Mary’s Bridal Shop
If there’s one thing Italians know inside out (other than pasta) it’s fashion! The gorgeous mum and daughter duo Rosa and Mary are industry veterans, offering a carefully curated range of luxurious bridal gowns from a hand-picked line-up of exclusive designers. Like a big warm hug, they make every bride feel calm and welcome, and they’re famous for their precise gown alterations.
Where: 195 Varsity Parade, Varsity Lakes
Made with Love Bridal
Born and bred on the GC and known for their daring V necklines, plunging low backs and luxurious French crepe dresses, MWL is now an internationally recognised family-owned and operated business. With THE most chic designs, a ready-to-wear collection that is perfect for last-minute elopements and nuptials, plus there is a stunning vintage collection available online to lust over. Swoon.
Where: The Lakehouse, 237/34 Glenferrie Drive, Robina
The Bridal Lounge – Kate Gubanyi Design Studio
Another local girl done good, Kate understands the 2022 bride wants a flattering cut, timeless design and freedom of movement, coz no-one wants to bust out on the d-floor more than the bride! Inspired by current catwalk trends, geometric shapes and modern and historical patterns, Kate’s designs are customized to fit like a glove and if you want to add beading or bling etc, consider it done.
Where: 10A Railway Street, Southport
Pearl Bridal
Pearl Bridal stocks exclusive and exquisite bridal and bridesmaids dresses from around the globe to suit every style. Brands include Katy Corso, Jessica Bridal Couture, Atelier Wu and Oksana Mukha to name a few, and they’ve received a stack of awards over the last few years. They also boast a beautiful selection of gowns for sizes 16+ and the team won’t rest until you find the perfect fit!
Where: 154 Varsity Parade, Varsity Lakes
Silk Laundry
The original it-girl label and sustainability trailblazer, Silk Laundry also boasts a bridal collection embodying the brand’s signature understated style. Made-to-order, all bridal silhouettes are tailored by silk artisans and crafted with 100%, 40 momme silk. Or, if you’re looking for chic, effortless bridesmaids’ dresses, you can’t go past their iconic 90s style slip, and maids – you’ll DEFINITELY wear this one again…and again.
Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach. *By appointment only as samples are sourced from the Brisbane store.
Luv Bridal
With endless designer gowns priced from $499-$5000, we challenge you to leave empty-handed! Luv Bridal has been part of the Australian bridal landscape since 2009. Catering for lovers of timelessly elegant designs to embracers of modern cutting-edge fashion, their Bridal Stylists will make sure the quest for your dress will become a cherished memory. What’s not to ‘luv’?!
Where: 1 Gateway Drive, Biggera Waters
Helena Couture Designs
Dreamy dresses incoming at this multi-award winner specialising in custom wedding gowns at affordable prices. Whether you’re after the perfect frock for the beach or garden, an on-trend or edgy design, or a classic bespoke dress, Helena shares in each bride’s excitement throughout the entire creative journey; from the conceptual design, through the production process to the final creation.
Where: 22 Tuxedo Junction Drive, Maudsland
Spell
If you fancy yourself as a romantic bohemian bride, your first stop must be Spell. With elegant and simple silhouettes and intricate fabrics, Spell’s truly beautiful designs are perfectly suited to the barefoot seaside or lush rainforest nuptials. Hot tip: there is a strong second-hand market for these ethereal beauties so if your budget is tight and/or you embrace circular fashion, do your due diligence!
Where: 15 Browning Street, Byron Bay
Words by Bianca Trathen.