Stephanie James Couture

While looking for my wedding gown, my sister (the best MOH ever) did a bunch of research for «vintage» wedding gowns and found Stephanie James Couture. Thank GOD she did! If I had been looking, I would have let the geography stop me from even visiting her shop down in Costa Mesa. (Los Angeleans are known for their hatred of traffic and commuting any further than 10 miles for something… my sister lives in Phoenix and didn’t see any problem with the drive)
I have to say that not only was the drive worth it, but I don’t think I could have ever found a more perfect wedding dress experience than what my sister found for me in Stephanie James Couture.
Stephanie’s shop is a quaint little shop that could easily be passed by if you didn’t know where you were going to, but I think it makes for a quiet and pleasant dress day for any bride. My mom, sister, and I were all greeted by Stephanie and we took a moment to look through all the beautiful dresses to pick out which ones I would try. I have to say that almost every dress made me feel beautiful, special, and one of a kind. However, once I put my gown on it was OVER and we all knew it. But Stephanie was very patient and prompted me to just try on my favorite 3 dresses once more to make sure I was really sold. I was glad she did that because the second time I put the dress on, I knew for sure I was done looking.
The whole process was great from start to finish. I drove down to her shop two more times. Once to try the muslin of the dress on and then another to pick up my dress. These dresses are not only perfectly made but comfortable and luxurious while staying playful and sweet. Stephanie has expert knowledge of gowns, their design, and construction, but she also does photography so I think this helps her have a wonderful eye for what you will look amazing in. Both in life and in photos! She was MORE than happy to work with me on color choices and took all of my suggestions without problem.
I am a professional pattern maker (I make clothing) for a well known company in Los Angeles, so I tend to be really picky when it comes to construction, fabrics, and overall look of a dress. I never once questioned Stephanie’s quality because it shows from the second you walk into her shop all the way to your finished dress. And what is even more wonderful is that she is REALLY personable and fun.
YOU WILL NEVER find a better dress maker for your wedding gown if you are looking for anything that is… well… beautiful.

When I found Stephanie James Couture, I know I wanted something different and special than what other bridal salons had to offer. Not only did she have exactly what I wanted, she was wonderful to work with! Her style and attention to detail is incredible. All of my fittings were included in the total price of the dress, so it was nice to have no «surprises» with expensive alterations like other stores. It was such a great experience being able to work directly with the designer. I would recommend her store to anybody looking for «the perfect dress» and a special experience while doing so.

When I started my search for my dress, I wanted something unique, vintage looking and tea length. After doing a bit of Google searching I came across Stephanie James Couture and immediately fell in love with her gowns, especially with the Josephine. I am in Southern Cali now, so I was able to go to her store directly in Costa Mesa. There she was able to create my perfect dress, which included POCKETS!!! I love my dress and I love Stephanie for contributing to my magical day.
Pics of the dress: