Real Bride April wears Escallonia by Alena Leena
April envisioned a wedding that seamlessly blended country charm with a touch of high-end glamour. While her husband's deep-rooted country style influenced their choice of venue at the Granite Belt Retreat in Stanthorpe, she was determined to elevate the atmosphere with a sparkle that was all her own. A Pinterest board full of inspiration set the tone, but it wasn’t until she discovered Escallonia by Alena Leena that everything truly came together.
As we know, your bridal journey isn’t just about finding something beautiful; it’s about discovering the piece that defines one of the most important days of your life. April knew the right gown would be more than fabric and embellishments; it would be the embodiment of her vision, the piece that made everything fall into place. What she didn’t expect was how quickly that moment would arrive or how fleeting the journey would be!
From the moment April discovered The Veil Collective on social media, she felt an undeniable pull. The boutique exuded the warmth and perfect blend of luxury and inclusivity she had hoped for on her bridal journey. When it came time to book her appointments, there was no hesitation. The Veil Collective was first on the list, not only for the aesthetic but because we could accommodate all seven of her guests. With so many boutiques capped at just three or four, finding a space that welcomed her full support crew felt like a sign.
As the appointment day approached, the excitement was real, but so were the nerves. This wasn’t just another shopping trip; this was the dress she’d wear to marry the love of her life. What if she didn’t find the one?
At first, April was certain she needed a fitted, sparkly gown however after browsing the gallery after her consultation with her stylist, Jess, she discovered Escallonia a refreshing perspective on the glam and silhouette she was seeking. Was it the subtle shimmer catching the light, the versatility of the sleeve options, or the comfort of the shape? There was no denying it, Escallonia captured her heart. But could it really be this simple?
That very week, after visiting a few more bridal boutiques, April made her decision: Escallonia was the one. But in the process, she experienced something unexpected, a feeling not often discussed: she had to grieve the end of the wedding dress shopping journey. Though it felt a bit silly at first, once April knew Escallonia was her perfect match, she found herself mourning the end of the search. For many brides, this emotional shift is a real part of the experience. It’s not just about finding the dress, but about marking the close of one chapter in the wedding planning adventure. The following weekend, she returned to The Veil Collective, ready to make it official.
On her wedding day, April stepped into Escallonia and felt like the most radiant version of herself. As she walked down the aisle, the reaction from her guests was nothing short of priceless. Gasps, whispers of awe, and even applause filled the air; every detail of the dress captured the magic of the moment.
Reflecting on her journey, April wouldn’t change a thing. The process was effortless, and the experience unforgettable. Her advice to future brides? Trust your instincts, embrace the unexpected, and allow your vision to evolve.
April’s Dream Team
Venue - Granite Belt Retreat | Photographer - Sharelle Knight Photography | Dress - Alena Leena Bridal, The Veil Collective | Celebrant - Celebrant Lady Love | Event Styling - Everybody Say Love Events | Content Creator - Honey I Got You | Florist - Blooming Gorgeous | Groom & Groomsmen Suits - Connor | Bridesmaids Dresses - Billy J