How did you find out about Sophia Grace Couture?

I pass by Sophia Grace Couture almost every day, and every time, I’ve been so drawn to your beautiful window displays. I’ve always wanted to step inside and see your stunning collections up close!

How would you describe your experience at Sophia Grace Couture?

What truly stood out to me was the peaceful and private experience you offer. Each bride gets her own fitting room and personal space, without the distraction of other clients or loud crowds. It felt so calm, intimate, and respectful—just the way a bridal fitting should be.

Your team is incredibly kind and welcoming, which made the whole experience even more special. The boutique itself is spotlessly clean and beautifully arranged—every detail made me feel comfortable and cared for.

Tell us about your dress and why you choose your particular gown?

I was looking for something elegant and timeless, but also comfortable enough to truly enjoy the day—and I found exactly that. What I absolutely adore about my dress is that it’s a two-piece design. It gave me all the drama and grace I wanted for the ceremony, and then transformed into a completely different, more relaxed look for the reception. It felt like having the best of both worlds—effortless beauty and pure comfort.

How did you meet? Are you happy to tell us about the proposal?

I first came across Owen on Facebook during the COVID lockdown in 2019. He had an online music streaming channel, and I started following him simply for the music. At the time, we were both in separate relationships, and it was just a quiet admiration from afar.

Three years later, I found myself single and feeling a bit lonely. I decided to try a dating app—and to my complete surprise, the very first person who appeared was none other than Owen. It felt like the universe had been gently holding onto this connection, waiting for just the right moment to bring us together.

In July 2024, during our summer holiday in Bulgaria, without me knowing, he asked my father for my hand in marriage—a thoughtful and meaningful step that showed his deep love and commitment.

Then, in September, we went on a holiday to Venice. And there, in one of the most romantic cities in the world, he got down on one knee and proposed to me—in Bulgarian. It was the most beautiful surprise, and hearing those words in my own language made it even more special.

What was your inspiration for your wedding? Did you follow a specific theme or colour palette?

I was inspired by the beauty of natural elements combined with a warm, sophisticated colour palette. The deep dark green, burnt orange, and golden yellow hues created a cosy yet elegant atmosphere—perfectly capturing the timeless and stylish vibe I wanted for our special day. The ceremony took place in a stunning amphitheatre, where a simple arch made from oak leaves was set against the breath-taking sea view. I chose the oak tree for its symbolism—strength, endurance, and longevity—which perfectly reflected the foundation I wanted for our marriage. The arch’s natural beauty blended seamlessly with the calm and stylish ambiance of the venue. To complement the arch, we incorporated numerous baskets filled with flowers, adding delicate touches of softness and warmth throughout the space. Overall, I envisioned a wedding that was intimate, classy, and effortlessly stylish—a celebration that felt both inviting and unforgettable.

What made you decide upon your chosen venue?

One of the most important factors for us when selecting the venue was logistics. Since we’re having a multicultural wedding abroad, we wanted a location close to the airport to make it easier and more comfortable for our guests traveling from different countries. We also dreamed of a seaside celebration, especially in September, which is a wonderful season in Bulgaria. Our vision was to create a relaxed, summer holiday vibe—complete with a Sunday beach day after the wedding so all our guests could unwind and enjoy the beautiful surroundings together. The venue itself is truly magical—perched at the end of a cliff with breath-taking sea views right in front of you. The restaurant offers impeccable 5-star service and delicious cuisine, making the entire experience both elegant and unforgettable.

Tell us about your wedding?

Our wedding was a fun mix of two very different cultures—Bulgarian and Scottish —coming together as one. We wanted to include both traditions and make the day feel like a true reflection of our story, blending our backgrounds in a way that felt natural and joyful.

We had Bulgarian bagpipers leading me to the ceremony—such a beautiful and unique touch. The traditional Bulgarian bread ceremony was another special moment that honoured my heritage. The biggest surprise was during the party—none of the guests knew I was a dancer! I slipped away, changed into traditional Bulgarian clothes, and joined the dancers for a performance. Alongside this, we had an Orkadian bride cog adding a fun Scottish vibe, while everyone enjoyed Bulgarian rakia, which brought a lively and authentic spirit to the celebration. The amazing Bulgarian dancers brought so much energy and colour to the day, making the whole experience truly unforgettable.

What was the most memorable moment?

The most memorable part? Honestly—all of it. From start to finish, every moment held something special.

Do you have any advice for future brides visiting Sophia Grace Couture?

Be open to new ideas and try on everything—even styles you never imagined yourself wearing. You’ll be surprised how different dresses can look on your body compared to the hanger. Sometimes, the dress you never considered ends up being the one. Trust the process and have fun with it—it’s all part of the experience!