Get to Know the Designer: Sassi Holford
From April 25th until May 9th, Little White Dress is hosting an extended trunk show for the elegant and sophisticated Sassi Holford bridal collection. Little White Dress is one of only seven bridals boutiques in the United States that carries Sassi's London-based collection.We are thrilled that brides will have the opportunity during our trunk show to see dresses in the Sassi Holford collection that are only available for a limited time in the United States! Sassi was kind enough to chat with us before the trunk show so we could share with our brides more about her as a designer.
Tell us about yourself and your family.
I’ve been designing wedding dresses for over 30 years – I have a “less is more” approach with my designs. I am thrilled to say that earlier this year I won the Best Dress Designer Award with Wedding Ideas Magazine and then just two months later I picked up the Best British Bridal Designer Award with Bridal Buyer – the UK’s two most prestigious bridal designer awards!
My husband, Martin, handles the marketing side of things -so it’s a real home away from home at the office! We have three beautiful children – Charlie is 16 whilst the twins, Missie and Hugo, are both 12 (we recently welcomed another addition into our home – a Shih Tzu-cross who’s almost 11 months old and called Monty – he too comes to the office on occasion!)
I have two boutiques: my flagship boutique in London exclusively offers my Couture Collection and I meet with clients every month there. My other boutique is based where I am in the South West of England and this is where the Signature Collection is available (in addition to selected bridal boutiques in the UK and North America).
How did you get started as a bridal designer?
I had just finished school and a friend was due to get married but had no real budget for her dream dress. I offered to make the dress for her (overnight I might add!) and, whilst I had clearly underestimated the full extent of the task, I thoroughly enjoyed every moment –it was a success and things naturally progressed from there.
How do you get your inspiration for each new collection?
Whilst I tend to draw on all areas of life and fashion I do find that my brides are a constant source of inspiration when I’m working with them in one of my boutiques. They share their opinions and ideas with me – their passion has always been hugely motivating and inspiring.
Describe your vision of a bride who wears your gowns. What is her personality and style?
My brides are brilliant – they’re savvy, independent career minded women who aren’t afraid to make a statement and show their romantic side.
How do you come up with the names of your dresses?
They normally stem from brides and people that I’ve met in the past who I feel have characters that match my designs.
What are the differences between brides/weddings in the UK and the US?
I see a lot more brides in the US choosing to have bridesmaids at their wedding and the sheer size of the US, as a country, lends itself to offering so much more in terms of choice and variety – you can get married outside for a start (mind you – you generally have better weather for it...)!
What is your advice for brides looking for their wedding gown?
Try all the dress shapes first and you will just know when you find “the” dress – you’ll look and feel at your most beautiful ...but you must never compromise on your comfort!
Thanks, Sassi, for telling us more about your life and inspirations!
Don't miss the chance to see Sassi Holford gowns that are only available during our extended trunk show between April 25th and May 9th! Call us at 303-814-8972 for an appointment to find your perfect wedding dress!