This weeks interview features Amanda Archer from
Amanda Archer Collection. Amanda is located in Chicago.
Tell us a little about yourself.I'm a California beach girl at heart, moved to San Francisco to pursue my lifelong dream to become a fashion designer, graduated in 2003 from FIDM, spent 5+ years working in the industry as a designer before launching my own label: Amanda Archer Collection. I met my husband in San Francisco, he is a fabulous chef, we recently relocated to Chicago for my husbands work where we live with my 11 year old baby kitty.
What special things do you create for weddings?I create non-traditional wedding dresses and custom dresses for bridesmaids, I'm also known to make matching ties and flower girl dresses from time to time.
Who or what sparked your interest in making wedding-related items?My background is in evening wear, special occasion women's wear dresses. My passion is designing dresses for all sorts of occasions, (I also love designing coats:) But what really got me into weddings was designing my own wedding gown and bridesmaids dresses, it was such a wonderful experience, I wanted to relive it over again many times.
What is a little known fact, or something unique about your work that is interesting?
My dresses are so wearable even for non-wedding related events, Some of my cotton wedding and/or reception dresses can be dyed afterwards to be worn again, which is great because I believe in being able to wear a dress for more than one event.
If you are married, what’s the one thing you wish you had for your wedding that you didn’t?Etsy! I did a lot of my own DIY wedding details, but I didn't know much about Etsy at the time, it would have been fun to explore different ideas.
What is your favorite wedding song?The Luckiest by Ben Folds
What trends do you see happening in your specialty at the moment?People are thinking more modern, simplistic and unique, getting away from the satin polyester "traditional" wedding stuff you see everywhere.
What is your favorite part of the wedding journey?Picking out the fabric and designing of course, but I loved our reception which was held at Aureole, Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. It was sooo beautiful, we had swans in this pretty outdoor pond, even a view of fireworks during our champagne toast, and the dinner was AMAZING too:)
What advice can you share for all the brides getting married this year?Have FUN!! Don't let the pressure of the "perfect" wedding get to your head, your memories will be of all your friends, family and the laughter and tears of happiness you all share.
What is your perfect honeymoon spot?
Paris, France
If you could pick anyone famous that would purchase your items for their wedding, who would they be?Zooey Deschanel, although she is already married... so I would need to go back in time.
If you could choose 1 item from your shop that you wish every bride could have, what would it be?A LWD (little white dress) perfect for the reception, rehearsal dinner or honeymoon
What are some of your favorite shops on Etsy, wedding or otherwise?I have so many favorites, but to name a few I've had a wonderful experience with:
luxedeluxe,
charmdesign, and
tinatarnoff.
Do you have a website, blog, where we can read more about you and your work?http://amandaarcher.comhttp://independentdesigner.blogspot.com/
Stationery. Your butterfly motif can be used as an icon, an overall pattern or in a monogram repeated throughout your stationery. For a more varied look, use butterflies in new ways. These butterflies fluttering in flight offer a different view. {handmade by www.anaderoux.etsy.com}
Jewelry. Wear your theme in jewelry with earrings, bracelets and necklaces that feature butterflies. With many options you can find designs to match your style, from classic to bold. {handmade by www.MGMart.etsy.com}
Hair. With color and stylish accessories, such as crystals and feathers, a butterfly hair accessory can become a statement piece in your bridal look. {handmade by www.Mikiye.etsy.com}
Flower Girls and Bridesmaids. Distribute your theme to your wedding party. Shoe clips, cufflinks and headbands are wonderful places to add butterflies. {handmade by www.luly612.etsy.com}
Ceremony. You don’t have to wait until the reception to use your design motif. Ceremony program, ring pillow and petal cones can all include your butterfly theme. {handmade by www.YANDEBRIDAL.etsy.com}
{handmade by www.BeSomethingNew.etsy.com}
{handmade by www.TiarasAndFascinators.etsy.com}
{handmade by www.MGMart.etsy.com}
{handmade by www.TessaKim.etsy.com}
{handmade by www.bobbijordan.etsy.com}
{handmade by www.heknowsmyname.etsy.com}
{handmade by www.ShellScapes.etsy.com}
{handmade by www.hairbowswonderworld.etsy.com}
{handmade by www.OriginalsByLynnette.etsy.com}
{handmade by www.FeathersandFrills.etsy.com}
{handmade by www.BeadFloraJewels.etsy.com}
Feminine Whimsy. Purses with lovely fabric folds and dangles can work well with similar elements in your dress or just the opposite, such as a whimsical clutch with a sleek dress. {handmade by www.bellesandcrystals.etsy.com}
Pattern and Color. For something a little different try colorful patterns. These are also great for bridesmaid purses and gifts. {handmade by www.DavieandChiyo.etsy.com}
Classic Elegance. For classic grace that never goes out of style, you can't go wrong with black and white with lace. {handmade by www.percyhandmade.etsy.com}
Sleek and Stylish. For modern and evening weddings, consider sleek clutches with a touch of drama. {handmade by www.thesocialseam.etsy.com}
