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European-Designed Bridal Gowns Are Specialty of Mariage Couture

Mariage Couture in Flemington is a bonanza for brides! Filled with gorgeous bridal gowns of all kinds, it offers European designs exclusive to the shop.

"We have combined European elegance with American freshness," explains owner Donna Morello, who has both a fashion and business background.

Convinced there was a market for these fashion-forward bridal gowns, Ms. Morello opened her shop at 231 South Main Street in May. She has been very encouraged with the response, and customers are coming from all over the area, including many from Princeton.

"I have advertised in The Knot bridal magazine and on their website," she says. "Customers have come from all over, including California. I'm also getting a lot of people from Princeton and lots of referrals.

Unique Designs

"Brides come in and say the dresses feel so good on them," continues Ms. Morello. "These gowns are lighter-weight. The fabrics are gorgeous, and they are so well-made, with intricate detailing, and they are noted for their unique designs.

"The European designs also incorporate color in the wedding gowns, she adds. "They can be red, green, pink, etc., both solids and multi-color. We offer all these colors, and although most American brides want white, some are choosing color. Often, the white dresses will have pink accents or subtle luminescence and shine in the light."

There are no fixed rules about wedding gowns anymore, she points out, and the choice of gown reflects the bride's taste and personality.

"Today, anything goes with bridal gowns. It's all very individual for each bride. You do see a few trends. For example, strapless dresses continue to be popular and have been for the past couple of years. We are also seeing a lot of 2-piece gowns. This is a new trend, and many brides are opting for it. The nice thing is that they can wear the top separately later, with a more informal ensemble. Crinkled organza is still another trend."

Pleasing the bride and making sure she receives the gown that is perfect for her is Ms. Morello's main priority. "First, I have a pre-consultation with the bride on the phone. Then, when she comes in, I'll look at her coloring, personality, and talk about her plans for the wedding. She always says she appreciates my guidance.

"Many brides come in a year ahead to select the dress. Most importantly, I always listen to the bride. And I look at her eyes when she puts on a dress. If she likes it, her eyes light up! Most brides know what looks well on them. Some will decide immediately when they come in; more typical is a 2-week decision. Interestingly, the second dress they try on is often the one."

Cutting Edge

Gowns at Mariage Couture are from Paris, Milan, Brussels, Barcelona, and the United Kingdom. Ms. Morello travels abroad twice a year to select them, and as she says, "It's important to keep on the cutting edge for our customers."

The gowns are truly beautiful. Displayed on mannequins, not racks, they offer a romantic vision of styles, from sumptuous to understated elegance. Cathedral, chapel, and sweep trains are available, and there are even dresses with no trains.

Silk organza, silk Shantung, crepe silk, satin, chiffon, taffeta, Alençon lace, layered and tiered skirts, ruched overlay bodices – one dress is more beautiful than the next!

"The texture of these gowns is so special," points out Ms. Morello. "The embroidery and beading are so tastefully placed. They are beautiful, luscious wedding gown fabrics and are all light-weight.

"Halter gowns are popular now, too, and also the corset back (bustier) is a favorite and very Italian. It can be open work (with see-through skin) or it can have a panel underneath. We also see little bolero jackets now that add a nice look. It is all wonderful! I am just surrounded by beauty here – all these beautiful gowns.

"When the bride has chosen the gown, then we start accessorizing," continues Ms. Morello. "We custom-make all our veils, and we have head pieces, including hair jewelry, in addition to tiaras."

Fresh Look

Mariage Couture tries to accommodate all budgets, she adds, noting, "I am competitively priced. Also, many bridal shops are family businesses down through the generations. Since I am not originally from this industry, I bring a fresh look to it, something different. I offer a fresh, new approach, and of course, gowns that are exclusive to us.

"Most of all," she says, "my goal is for the bride to walk out with a big smile. I want Mariage Couture to be known as a very special place for brides to come for a gown. I want them to know I genuinely care about them, and this is happy work. We build a relationship.

"I let the brides know that this is a fun time in their lives, and they must enjoy it. It's a wonderful time and brings families together, Often, the bride's mother, sister, best friend, or grandmother come with her to see the dresses. My most fun is welcoming the bride. She's happy and excited. What's better than to be around a celebratory event!"

Mariage Couture also holds fashion shows and trunk sales. Upcoming events are scheduled for Sunday, February 27 and Sunday, March 6.

Mariage Couture hours are by appointment. (908) 782-0930.