Camille’s Bridal Profile: Megan Kuzma’s Disney Wedding
It was just over a year ago that Camille’s bride, Megan Kuzma, said “yes!” to her dress at Camille’s! We also fell in love with her when she came in to shop for the perfect gown for her 1920’s/vintage/glamour inspired wedding in the most magical place on Earth…DISNEY WORLD!
The whole day felt like a dream and I am still so in love with my Stella York dress!!
My husband said I took his breath away and was brought to tears during our first look. Thank you all for helping me find my dream dress and helping me feel stunning on my wedding day! – Megan
Megan worked with Camille’s to find the perfect:
- Wedding dress (Stella York)
- Hair piece
- Veil
- Earrings
- Alterations
Where did you meet your husband, Chance?
MK: Chance and I met through mutual friends when we were 17. We had made plans to go to the movies one night with our friends and ran into each other. While our friends were talking, he introduced himself. I remember he was wearing a leather jacket and a baseball cap and big brown eyes. Even though we ended up going to the same movie that night, it was about a year later that we reconnected and went on our first date.
When and where did you get engaged?
MK: We got engaged in downtown Beaufort, North Carolina after five years together. We spent the day exploring historic sites, eating, and walking by the water. During our walk, we found a little spot with a bench and sat together where he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him.
What made you decide to shop at Camille’s?
MK: At the time of my engagement, I was attending UNCW and living in Wilmington, NC. I had heard great things about Camille’s and decided to set up an appointment shortly after my graduation to try on dresses. I had contacted Camille’s on Facebook to see if they had samples of the dresses I was interested in. The owners, Joanne and Angela, were so sweet and responded to my messages very quickly. I could tell that they truly care about their customers and really wanted to help me.
How soon after you got engaged did you begin looking for a wedding gown?
MK: My husband and I wanted to finish school before we got married, so we had a rather long courtship and engagement. I began looking at wedding dresses shortly after we got engaged but didn’t start trying on dresses until five months before our wedding. I didn’t realize how long it would take for my dress to arrive and how long alterations would take. Looking back, I do think that I should have started shopping for my dress sooner. Thankfully though, everything worked out and my dress was ready in time for our wedding.
What was it like shopping for your wedding gown at Camille’s?
MK: Shopping for my wedding dress at Camille’s was such a wonderful experience. With there being so many beautiful styles, shopping for your wedding gown can be a little overwhelming. Caitlyn, my bridal consultant, was amazing to work with and really helped me narrow down what I was looking for. With Caitlyn’s expertise, I was able to find my dream dress – a gorgeous Stella York fit and flare. Caitlyn also helped me find my veil and customize my dress with sparkly crystal straps. My veil complimented my dress beautifully and my straps added that extra touch of glamour to my gown.
How did you decide which one?
MK: The theme for our wedding was vintage glamour/1920’s, so I knew that I wanted my wedding dress to be timeless and elegant. I really wanted to take it up a notch and wear something that would make me feel stunning as a bride. My mom, who came with me to my appointment, told me that she knew my wedding dress was the one as soon as I put it on. It had everything that I was looking for in my dress – the delicate lace, the soft tulle, the elegant beading, and I absolutely loved the ivory over almond colors. The ladies at Camille’s encouraged us to go grab a bite to eat and take some time to think it over. This gave me the opportunity to send pictures of the dress to my sister, who wasn’t feeling well and was unable to come with us to my appointment. I am very close with my mom and sister and know I can count on them to give me their honest opinion. They both loved the dress and thought it was perfect for me. We went back to the store and I put it on one more time and fell in love with it all over again. I knew it was my dress.
What was your favorite thing about wedding dress shopping?
MK: I really just loved the whole experience. I am not really the type of girl who likes to be in the spotlight, but the ladies at Camille’s were so incredibly sweet and made me feel so special as a bride. I also love that I was able to share that experience with my momma and that she was there to help me find my wedding dress.
How was shopping at Camille’s Different from other stores you went to?
MK: I had visited two other bridal shops prior to Camille’s and my experiences were very different. At the other stores, I felt a lot of pressure to find a dress and I kind of felt like I was just another customer. Walking into Camille’s, the atmosphere was completely different. It was much more laid back and everyone was so warm and welcoming, making me feel very comfortable. Joanne, Angela, Caitlyn, and the other girls went above and beyond to make sure that my dress was exactly what I wanted and that I felt beautiful for my wedding day.
Did you get your alterations done at Camille’s?
MK: Yes, all of my alterations were done at Camille’s. I was very particular with my alterations and the customizations to my dress. Angela took on the task herself to personally make sure my dress was exactly how I wanted. Angela was so sweet to work with and had such a kind, gentle spirit that put my mind at ease. I knew I was in great hands with her and she worked tirelessly to accommodate my wishes. She did an incredible job and I cannot thank her enough.
See Related: 5 Tips for Wedding Dress Alterations
Megan’s Wedding…
When and where was your wedding?
Date: October 18, 2016
Location: Walt Disney World
MK: The ceremony was held at the Disney Wedding Pavilion at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. We had a cake and champagne toast on the Whitehall Patio, also at the Grand Floridian. We ended the night with a private dessert party during the Illuminations fireworks show at the United Kingdom pavilion in Disney’s Epcot.
The whole day was a dream! Everything was far more beautiful than I could have ever imagined and so unbelievably magical. We feel so blessed and grateful.
How many wedding guests?
We had a very intimate wedding with only 16 guests.
Megan’s Wedding Vendors
| Ceremony/Reception: | Disney’s Wedding Pavilion/Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa |
| Photography: | Root Photography |
| Videography: | You & I Pictures |
| DJ | N/A |
| Lighting: | N/A |
| Flowers: | Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings |
| Cake: | Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings |
| Tent, heaters, Linens: | Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings |
| Furniture and Design: | Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings |
| Hair/Make Up: | Laura Reynolds Artistry |
| Shuttle: | Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings |
Megan + Chance | Disney’s Wedding Pavilion from You & I Pictures on Vimeo.
Plus Size Wedding Dress Shopping Guide (And Some Of Our Favorites!)
Congratulations on your engagement! It’s an exciting time to find that perfect gown for your wedding day. Just as there is no “one style fits all” wedding dress, there is no “one size fits all” either. We hope you will come in and shop our collection of plus size wedding dresses from a variety of sought after wedding dress designers.
Advice for Wedding Dress Shopping
Before you get to the store…
- Schedule an appointment to ensure you have a dressing room and consultant available while you shop.
- Avoid shopping when you have PMS to ensure you feel your best when trying on gowns
- Focus on the parts of your body you’re excited to show off — great cleavage, sexy hips, or the color of your eyes — and share them with your consultant before you arrive or right off the bat.
- Drink tons of water, and lay off alcohol and salty snacks the night before so you’re feeling your best
- Wear underwear that makes you feel GREAT
- Bring some kind of strapless bra, if you have one
- If you have your wedding shoes already, bring those with you. We also have a selection of wedding shoes available for you to try on with your dress.
See Related: What To Expect At Your First Wedding Dress Appointment
Things to consider while wedding dress shopping
Size is just a number.
Once you’ve chosen a gown, your consultant will pull out her tape measure and order the size that matches your largest measurement. Brides of all sizes have to do this too. Bridal lines tend to use high-fashion sizes (no vanity sizing here) and this could be the “biggest” sized dress you’ve ever bought.
An expert seamstress can make all the difference.
Wedding dress size doesn’t matter, but the fit sure does! Getting alterations done by an experienced professional is going to make the difference in getting that perfectly flattering fit.
***Work with a seamstress that can add boning, straps, or bra cups that can make you look, feel, and move even better.
See Related: 5 Tips for Wedding Dress Alterations
Keep an open mind.
We see brides coming in all the time with their heart set on a certain style. But after a few iterations in the fitting room, they fall in love something they had not considered before. Trust your consultant when they bring in different options for you.
Some of our Favorite Wedding Gowns for Curvy Brides
Shop Morilee by Madeline Gardner Julietta® Collection
This years collection of Morilee by Madeline Gardner Julietta is for the contemporary curvy woman with exquisite taste. A collections of breath-taking, on-trend gowns with crystal beaded embroidered lace, flounced Organza, Chantilly lace with scalloped edging on a tiered tulle skirt, sparkling lace appliqués on soft net, and so many other head-turning details. Every dress is designed to compliment each and every curve.
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- Morilee by Madeline Gardner Julietta® Collection
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- Morilee by Madeline Gardner Julietta® Collection
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- Morilee by Madeline Gardner Julietta® Collection
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- Morilee by Madeline Gardner Julietta® Collection
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- Morilee by Madeline Gardner Julietta® Collection
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- Morilee by Madeline Gardner Julietta® Collection
Shop Stella York Plus Sized Wedding Gowns
The Stella York collection has trend-setting styles including glamorous beaded gowns, sexy backs with illusion lace, relaxed boho silhouettes, picture-perfect ballgowns, and vintage-inspired fit and flare styles.
*Sizes 18-46 Available from Stella York
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- Stella York Syle 6432
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- Stella York Syle 6303
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- Stella York Syle 6303
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- Stella York ‘Every Body, Every Bride’ Collection
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- Stella York ‘Every Body, Every Bride’ Collection
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- Stella York ‘Every Body, Every Bride’ Collection
Shop Maggie Sottero Plus Size Gowns
Maggie Sottero has one of the largest collections of plus size wedding dresses. No matter your body shape or type, your dream wedding dress awaits. Varying necklines, fabrics, silhouettes, and colors in this collection.
*Most gowns available up to size 28.
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- Rebecca Ingram Allison
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- Maggie Sottero Sybil
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- Maggie Sottero Rosamund
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- Maggie Sottero Paulina
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- Maggie Sottero, Verina
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- Rebecca Ingram Alexis
We invite you to shop at Camille’s of Wilmington for your perfect wedding gown. Be sure to call ahead or schedule a bridal appointment online so a dressing room and consultant are available for you.
*Please note we may not have all sample gowns in the plus sizes but we can order them on your behalf.
5 Tips for Wedding Dress Alterations
You’ve chosen the perfect wedding dress. The next step is getting the perfect fit. But how do you decide who will do the alterations on your wedding dress, essentially the most memorable dress you’ll ever buy? Where should you go, what it will cost, how to protect the dress—these and other questions will take some consideration.
We understand. At Camille’s of Wilmington, we know the concerns and questions you will have about wedding dress alterations. Here are a few tips to get you started on choosing alterations for the wedding dress of your dreams:
1. Watch Your Wedding Timeline
Like most brides, you probably have started your planning early. Choose a dress 10 months before the wedding to allow for shipping, which can take four or five months. For standard alterations, you will need two or three fittings over the course of two to four weeks. Any major changes can take longer.
See Related: What To Expect At Your First Wedding Dress Appointment
2. Consider Your Wedding Dress Budget
Seamstresses may charge per service, such as shortening or resewing seams. Others will charge a flat fee for everything you need, typically $500-$700. Design changes such as altering a neckline or adding beadwork will be extra, so always get an estimate.
Camille’s is happy to provide an estimate of the cost of any alterations you’ll need once you’ve said “yes!”
3. Watch Your Wedding Weight: Plan Carefully
We do not recommend ordering a dress that is too small with the hope to lose weight. You may lose weight in unexpected places—or (heaven forbid) gain it back! It’s much easier to take in a large dress than let out a small one. Consider the fit of your dress, too: An A-line dress style is much more forgiving of weight changes.
4. Get the Best Wilmington NC Wedding Dress Alterations at Camille’s of Wilmington
Lorraine Swyers Seibold, Alterations Specialist
The bridal store where you buy your dress may or may not have the best tailors.
Camille’s is proud of two alterations specialists, Lorraine Swyers Seibold and Angela Woodcock.
Lorraine has been sewing all her life and won a state fair ribbon at the age of 11! She has extensive experience in bridal consulting and knows just the right way to make your dress fit perfectly.
Brides appreciate the extra care that goes into our alterations.
“The seamstress was great to work with. I can be particular with how things fit and she worked patiently with me to get the bustle just right,” said Courtney Townsend, Bride.
5. Questions to Ask About Wedding Dress Alterations
Read reviews and ask these questions before deciding who will make your wedding dress alterations. Here are a few considerations:
- Does the seamstress pay the bridal store for the referral?
- Does the seamstress work for the bridal salon, or are they an independent contractor? Make sure you have recourse if anything happens to your dream dress.
- Where is my dress stored when I leave it for alterations? You want to make sure the seamstress has a climate-controlled area for your dress.
- Is my dress insured? Once the dress leaves the store, it may not be covered by store insurance.
Brides Love Camille’s!
At Camille’s of Wilmington, excellent customer service, beautiful gowns, and the best alterations are our stock in trade. We offer five bridal designers, four bridesmaids lines, accessories, and tuxedo rentals.
For the best alterations to your wedding dress, call Camille’s today at (910) 471-4212 or email alterations@camilleswilmington.com.
FINAL PROM SALE! Save Up to 40% Designer Dresses
The final countdown to all rest of Prom’s in our area has begun! If you haven’t gotten your gown yet, we have A treat for YOU! Shop at Camille’s in May 2017 for HUGE savings on designer prom dresses. We’ll see you at the store (7134 Market St) for HUGE savings!
May 1-7 Save 25%
May 8-14 Save 30%
May 15-21 Save 40%
The following schools have Prom coming up!
Topsail, New Hanover, North Brunswick, Hoggard, Jacksonville, White Oak, Richland’s. We only sell ONE DRESS STYLE per school so the sooner you shop, the better chance you have to get the style you want!
****We apologize that there will be no more holding Prom apparel as of Wednesday, 4/19. If you would like to hold a dress there will be a non-refundable $25 charge.
Additional 25% off Clearance Dresses!
$40 Off Prom Tuxedo Rental
Camille’s Pro Tip: WILMINGTON NC PROM TUXEDO RENTAL: A GUIDE FOR GUYS
Let us be a part of the Best Prom Ever!
Camille’s Pro Tip: EVERYONE GOING TO PROM IN WILMINGTON SHOULD KNOW THESE 8 THINGS
Wedding Gown & Accessory SALE Event: April 21-23
Shop with us for one weekend in April for incredible prices on Wedding Gowns & Accessories
Sale Runs April 21st – 23rd!
- Friday, April 21st: 10am – 6pm
- Saturday, April 22nd, 10am – 4pm,
- Sunday April 23rd, 1pm – 4pm
40% off Designer Bridal Gown Samples
Shop our incredible selection of “off the rack gowns” and save big!
25% off all Shoes, Jewelry, Veils, Belts and Headpieces
Veil, Headpiece, and Jacket from Camilles
Camille’s is designed with brides in mind! We provide private and spacious fitting rooms, expert wedding consultants and seamstress on-site to give you best advice for the perfect dress! We want every bride to say, “YES!” at Camilles.
Grooms Save $40 off Their Wedding Tuxedo!
Camille’s Pro Tip: What To Expect At Your First Wedding Dress Appointment
You can RSVP to this Event on Facebook
LARGEST PROM SALE OF THE YEAR! April 21-23
Between Prom 2017 and Weddings, this is a super busy time of year for us…but we love it! And because we love it, and we love you, we are throwing our largest sale of the year!
Shop with us for PROM & Accessories…
Sale Runs April 21st – 23rd!
- Friday, April 21st: 10am – 6pm
- Saturday, April 22nd, 10am – 4pm,
- Sunday April 23rd, 1pm – 4pm
25% off NEW Current 2017 Designer Prom
Excluding Sherri Hill, Jovani & Rachel Allan
Additional 25% off Clearance Dresses!
We’re talking hundreds of dresses up to 75% off with an extra 25% off!
For any of the designers we are unable to discount, receive a Camille’s garment bag (value $10) and a pair of earrings (value up to $25.00).
$40 Off Prom Tuxedo Rental
Camille’s Pro Tip: WILMINGTON NC PROM TUXEDO RENTAL: A GUIDE FOR GUYS
Camille’s is here to help you find your perfect prom dress for the Best Prom Ever! Take advantage of our spacious fitting rooms, expert prom consultants and seamstress to give you best advice for the perfect dress!
Let us be a part of the Best Prom Ever!
Camille’s Pro Tip: EVERYONE GOING TO PROM IN WILMINGTON SHOULD KNOW THESE 8 THINGS
RSVP to this Event on Facebook
****No More Holding Prom Apparel as of Wednesday, 4/19. If you would like to hold a dress there will be a non-refundable $25 charge.
Wilmington NC Prom Tuxedo Rental: A Guide For Guys
Once you’ve made it through the Promposal and she’s said “yes”, nothing will impress her more than a classically well-done tuxedo.
For most guys of any age, life gives you very few chances to rock a tux–so enjoy it! This is also the reason nearly everyone chooses to rent versus buy a tuxedo for prom.
Tips for unforgettable Prom (and Prom Tuxedo)
Get Fitted Early for Your Prom Tuxedo Rental
You’ll want to reserve your tuxedo at least a month before prom to make sure you have the greatest possible selection to choose from and plenty of time for it to arrive.
Pro Tip: Bring your date or a piece of fabric from her dress to match your tie, vest, etc.
Choose Your Prom Style
Look online at styles you like before arriving to have an idea of what direction you want to go. The store will have experts on site to make recommendations on styles and designers based on your budget, body type, and desired look so don’t stress out if you’re not sure before you arrive.
Here is a sampling of prom tuxedo and formal suit styles available at Camille’s
What’s the Most Popular Style?
The Michael Kors Slim Fit and Ultra Slim Fit Tuxedos are easily the most popular in both the Berkley Tuxedo and Sterling Suits in black, navy and steel grey.
Why slim fit?
While it’s true less fabric is used in the tailoring of a slim fit ensemble, the cuts are generous enough to provide a very comfortable fit. And since a slim fit is going to fit closer to your natural body shape, the result is a flattering look that accentuates your form and looks similar to an expensive, tailored-to-fit ensemble.
Pro Tip: Slim fit styles may be worn by lots of body types while providing a contemporary look. This style will enhance and flatter your physique.
Should you go with a Bow Tie or Neck Tie?
Because “no tie” is not an option when it comes to formal wear for prom.
No matter which tie you choose, always match it to the vest you are wearing. So what color vest should you get, you ask? That’s a question for your prom date, who will most likely be in charge of matching your colors to her prom dress.
Pre-Tied Bow Tie – Every color imaginable available
Pre-Tied Windsor Tie – A respectable choice
Choose a Designer Prom Tuxedo
Styles from “budget” to “diamond plus” are available at Camille’s of Wilmington
- MICHAEL KORS
- CALVIN KLEIN
- LAUREN RALPH LAUREN
- TONY BOWLS
- JEAN YVES
Prom Tuxedo Accessories
There can be a lot to consider “accessory wise” when renting a tuxedo that fits your style and comfort. We’re happy to help you choose the right accessories for your style and budget.
- Shoes – Always rent unless you happen to have perfectly polished shoes to match your tux
- Vest – You’ll want to match with your prom date
- Shirt – Select a tuxedo or suit fit and choose a color and fabric
- Pocket Square – A nice touch of class to finish your look
- Cufflinks – A prominent accessory once you take off your jacket to dance!
- Cummerbund – Best worn with a tuxedo versus a suit
- Bow Tie – If you go this route, make sure it’s the same color as your vest
Pro Tip: Keep track of everything in your tuxedo rental bag, especially the small stuff like the tie and cufflink and return the tuxedo as soon as you can after Prom. Don’t worry about laundering, we take care of that.
Getting Measured
Getting measured for a tuxedo doesn’t take longer than a few minutes. Someone on the Camille’s team will take eight different measurements to ensure a perfect fit:
- Neck
- Sleeve length
- Waist
- Hips
- Outseam
- Height
- Chest
- Overarm
Pro Tip: Measurements should not be more than 30 days old to ensure an accurate fit.
TUXEDO RENTALS BY CAMILLE’S OF WILMINGTON
We’d love to help you get fitted in your perfect tux for prom! Mention this blog and save $40 off your rental!
$40 Off value only good with a complete ensemble including a coat. See store for complete details.
A Camille’s Bride Profile: Courtney Townsend
Camille’s of Wilmington meets hundreds of brides every single year that are looking for the perfect gown for the day they say “I do.” Some brides only need a a couple times to shop, order, alter, and pick up their dress. Other brides, like Courtney Townsend, stop in dozens of times during the planning process and stay connected with us long after their big day.
Courtney did not come into Camille’s knowing what she kind of dress she wanted or even what kind of wedding she wanted…
“I was not the type of bride that knew everything I wanted for my wedding since I was a little girl…other than looking through some bridal catalogs to get an idea, I was still all over the place. So I was really grateful to all the help and guidance I received throughout the process from Caitlyn Campagna and the ladies at Camille’s.” – Courtney Townsend
Courtney worked with Camille’s to find the perfect:
- wedding dress
- hair piece
- veil
- wedding jacket
- alterations
- bridesmaid dresses
- suits for the Groom and Groomsmen
Courtney’s engagement…
Where did you meet your husband, Thad?
We met at Goodfellas in Downtown Wilmington. I’m originally from New Jersey and Thad is from Emerald Island, NC.
When and where did you get engaged?
Thad and I would take our dog, Randall, on walks at Poplar Grove and on September 27, 2015, Thad said Randall needed some exercise before we headed to a birthday party. He proposed by the lake at Poplar Grove after we’d been hiking on a trail in the pouring rain.
Courtney’s & Camille’s…
What made you decide to shop at Camille’s for your wedding?
How soon after you got engaged did you begin looking for a wedding gown?
October 10, 2016, so just a couple weeks. I probably tried on 40 dresses before saying “yes!” at Camille’s.
What was it like shopping for your wedding gown at Camille’s?
In mid- November I went to Camille’s with my mom and found two dresses I really loved but they were complete opposites. One was a fuller white ball gown that allowed for more room to move and dance and the second was an off white, form-fitting, lace with open back and lace overlay on the back.
The jacket can be added or removed.
How did you decide which one?
Caitlyn, who works at Camille’s and was my “go to” there was a huge help and support. She gave great advice about what styles would work for me and helped me consider which style would be the best based on the type of wedding and wedding day I wanted to have. After much consideration, the ball gown made much more sense because I knew I wanted to be able to dance, hug, move, and eat as much as I wanted that day.
Another recommendation from Caitlyn was a lace overlay jacket to wear on top of my dress during the ceremony that could be removed for the reception. I also added a belt (that came with the dress) to the dress during the reception. So it ended up looking like two completely different dresses!
What was your favorite thing about wedding dress shopping?
Getting to feel like a little princess and getting up there and twirling around and getting to share those moment’s with my parents.
How was shopping at Camille’s Different from other stores you went to?
The team at Camille’s remembered me every time I came and and asked me about how wedding planning was going. They really cared.
I felt like I was their #1 priority when I was in there. Caitlyn gave me honest opinions which I needed. She was familiar with the dresses in the store so she could quickly find dresses with similar look and quality to the ones I already liked. She helped me get in and out of the dresses. She would call over others in the store to give feedback. I felt like they all knew me and wanted to help me find the perfect dress…which they did!
I was in and out of the store all the time to test different pieces and jewelry as I would find it. They were always helpful and got really used to seeing me.
They were committed to making sure I was satisfied with everything I ordered and happy on my wedding day.
Did you stay within your budget?
I was thrilled to only spend $700 for the gown and the jacket was $200. I have friends who spent a small fortune on their dresses so this was a steal.
Courtney chose a dress she could dance and twirl in.
Did you get your alterations done at Camille’s?
Yes, the seamstress was great to work with. I can be particular with how things fit and she worked patiently with me to get the bustle just right.
Did you get your bridesmaid’s dresses from Camille’s?
I only had 1 bridesmaid in town, the rest were in Massachusetts and Camille’s did a great job working with me to get all their measurements to them and then place a rush order to save on shipping since I wanted to drive them up myself when I was there on vacation.
Wedding gown and bridesmaid dresses from Camille’s
Did they help with anything else?
They invited me to a bridal workshop at the store where I met Kelly with Silverceiling who did such a great job at the workshop, she ended up doing the hair and makeup for me and me entire wedding party! So thankful we found her.
The bridal workshop at Camille’s with Silverceiling
Courtney’s wedding…
When and where was your wedding?
Nov 12, 2016 at Bakery 105 in Downtown Wilmington.
The ceremony was in courtyard and the reception took place inside..
How many wedding guests?
175
Courtney’s wedding vendors:
| Ceremony/Reception: | Bakery 105 |
| Photography: | Bella Rose Photography |
| Videography: | The Good Life Film Company LLC |
| DJ | DJ Brian Hood |
| Lighting: | High Performance Lighting |
| Flowers: | Eco Chic Blossoms |
| Cake: | Creative Cake Designs |
| Tent, heaters, Linens: | Party Suppliers and Rentals |
| Furniture and Design: | Pomp Events |
| Hair/Make Up: | Silver Ceiling |
| Shuttle: | Wilmington Trolley |
How Camille’s of Wilmington Helped Make Sydney’s Pageant Dream Come True
At Camille’s of Wilmington, we’ve gotten to know many pageant contestants and their family members over the years but none have affected us quite like Sydney Davis and her mother, Patti.
If you saw Sydney Davis on stage at the Miss Clemson University Pageant on January 28, 2017, you’d never know by her radiance and grace, exactly how many circumstances she had to overcome to get there.
The team at Camille’s feels very fortunate to be a part of Sydney’s pageant journey where she was able to dance the Cha Cha, receive the “People’s Choice Award,” and get invited on stage to take a bow with the pageant’s winner, Brooklyn Faye Garrett.
We wanted to tell Sydney’s courageous story and how Camille’s was able to play a part in making a very special night happen for Sydney.
The following is based on an interview with Sydney’s mother, Patti Davis.
Who is Sydney Davis?
Sydney is a twenty-two year Sophomore at ClemsonLIFE (Learning Is For Everyone), a program for students with intellectual disabilities who desire a postsecondary experience on a college campus. Sydney has Down Syndrome but that has not stopped her from following her many goals and dreams.
How long has Sydney been competing in pageants?
Patti Davis: Sydney did not have any history with pageants before the Miss Clemson pageant. However, she did have stage experience from 8 years of ballet lessons and also cheering on a competition team for 12 years.
The Miss Clemson Pageant came to ClemsonLIFE to ask if Sydney would like to compete. This was partly do to the fact that Sydney’s teacher, Ms. Kim, recommended her. Sydney is only the second student with Down Syndrome to ever compete in the pageant. Her former roommate, Katie Meriam, competed the year before.
Sydney called me in late November to tell me she would be competing in the pageant the end of January. It was a huge surprise since neither of us had experience with pageants. But I knew it was something we had to do.
When did Sydney begin preparing for the pageant?
Patti Davis: We began planning right away and decided her talent would be ballroom dancing (the Cha Cha) since she loves to dance and “Dancing with the Stars.” We knew we would need a gown for her dance and started to shop for gown patterns over Thanksgiving.
While at Joanne’s Fabrics shopping for patterns, someone at the fabric store overheard me saying what I was looking for someone to make a pageant costume. This young lady told us her Aunt, Lynn Balderson (who we would later learn is a consultant at Camille’s), makes costumes and may be able to help so I left her with my contact information.
We kept looking for gowns in Raleigh and Charlotte that would not have to be sewn from scratch but we could not find one that really flattered Sydney.
Over Christmas we did end up buying a gown from another store and that ended up being a huge mistake. This is because we knew we were running out of time to find a dress and get it altered. It became apparent as the date grew closer to the pageant that Sydney did not feel comfortable in this dress and I decided about a week before that we had to find her another dress.
Wait, you needed a pageant dress a week before the pageant!?
Patti Davis: That’s right. I knew this may be the only time she may ever do anything like this and I wanted her to look and feel the best she possibly could. I spent hours looking for dresses online and came across Camille’s of Wilmington in my search.
Even though the staff at Camille’s were getting ready for a Fashion Show, they got back to me to see if they could help with my impossible endeavor. That’s when Lynn’s niece saw a news story on Sydney and realized this dress was for the same girl from Joanne’s Fabrics a couple months before. It was meant to be! Needless to say, they still really wanted to help.
How did you get Sydney a dress in time?
We obviously didn’t have time to sew a dress from a pattern, so I gave Camille’s her size and measurements and Lynn sent us pictures of dresses that had just come in stock. Then, the most shocking and amazing thing happened – Lynn got permission from the owners of Camille’s to drive 4 of the dresses to us from Wilmington to Clemson so that Sydney could try them on and choose one.
Sydney knew immediately which dress of the 4 she wanted and Lynn took responsibility for altering it before the pageant would take place just a few days later.
Lynn stayed with me at my hotel in Clemson the week before the pageant and helped with, well, everything. She was truly my right hand those days leading up to the pageant. The day of, she was there to support Sydney and even helped tie her into the gown’s corset back.
Was getting her dress finished last minute the most stressful part about the pageant?
Patti Davis: If only! Unforeseen circumstances forced us to change Sydney’s dance partner the week before the pageant as well. Sydney’s new partner, Elliot, and her put in a ton of practice time the week leading up to the pageant. The two ended up really bonding, so the switch in partners worked out much better as well.
Is there anything you’d like to say to Lynn or the ladies at Camille’s
Patti Davis: Thank you so much! Your generosity of time and effort was truly appreciated. Dress shops don’t do things like this. It was just amazing. They went above and beyond what was ever expected. Everyone at the pageant went crazy over that dress! Even the contestants were raving to Sydney about it.
After the pageant was over, I sent flowers to Camille’s and Lynn as a small token of our gratitude.
What do you think was Sydney’s favorite thing about pageant prep?
Patti Davis: Although she did love her dress, I’d have to say her favorite part was dancing with Elliott.
What was Sydney’s favorite thing that happened at the Clemson pageant?
Patti Davis: Going on stage with the original “People’s Choice” winner, Brooklyn and bowing to the audience. I believe Brooklyn felt like “People’s Choice” really did belong to Sydney and Sydney feels as though she did win that.
Are there any more pageants in Sydney’s future?
Patti Davis:I have no idea if Sydney will do any more pageants. She’s busy. We talked about possibly doing another one and Brooklyn offered to work with her doing her hair and makeup so it could be in here future.
And if she does…I know we will definitely be calling Camille’s!
Promposal CONTEST! Win a FREE Prom Dress and Tux Rental
We enjoyed it so much last year that we’re bringing back our Promposal Contest!
You’re invited to share a photo and story from your own Promposal for a chance to win a FREE PROM DRESS and FREE TUX RENTAL from Camille’s of Wilmington, your Prom 2017 headquarters! Doesn’t that should like the best Prom ever?
Snap a photo from your Promposal and submit it to the contest page with a quick story of how it all went down. Share as much or as little as you like with us! Remember to enter by 1pm EST on March 17th, 2017.
Enter the Contest Here===> http://bit.ly/2mOP3SE
Who is going to judge which Promposal will win?
This is not a contest for the best Promposal. The winner will be chosen at random using our contest software so all Promposals both simple and over the top have an equal chance of winning the grand prize!
Are you looking for ideas for your Promposal?
You can find some on our Pinterest Board or check out some of the Promposals already in the contest.
Still Shopping for the Perfect Prom Dress?
You can shop some of our inventory online but you’ll need to come in the store to shop our full selection of over 375 gowns!
Save Time and Have the Best Time when you Book a Prom Appointment
Book an appointment and we’ll have a dressing room and Camille’s stylist there to assist you while you shop and try on! We have a huge selection of the top Prom dress designers in the business…Sherri Hill, Rachel Allen, Jovani and more. Just remember to get in early so you can get your dress listed in our Prom Registry – we won’t sell the same style to anyone else at your school!
Prom Resources:
7 TIPS FOR FINDING THE PERFECT PROM DRESS
EVERYONE GOING TO PROM IN WILMINGTON SHOULD KNOW THESE 8 THINGS
We hope you have THE BEST PROM EVER ILM!
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by Camille's of Wilmington
June 14, 2017
