At first I thought I would wear a simple lace dress. But the more I looked at web sites and bridal magazines the more I wanted to really look and feel like a bride for a day. So the lace dress idea went out the window and the gown idea came in to fill its place.

Now searching for the right gown is not an easy job. I went to the first salon and was totally discouraged. I hated every dress I tried on. Nothing looked good - especially the gowns I thought would look good. I almost gave up -- for a while anyways. But not for long.

My second venture to a different shop was also pretty dismal. I found one dress that I felt good in but was very uncomfortable with the staff telling me how great I looked in a dress that didn't even fit me. So I gave up again - for another while.

Not one to give up on anything I really want I started out again at a third salon, this time with the groom-to-be in tow. I decided to try on different styles, not just the ones I thought would look good. After about 12 dresses I tried one on that felt so very right and good. I felt wonderful in it.

I loved the simple lines and and weight of the dress. After all, I did not want to be slowed down by a heavy dress on our special day. But the dress has a train - more to slow me down, and no sleeves and ummmm I need sleeves, short ones at least.

So, loving this dress I determined to make one similar to it. I found a pattern. And with a few alterations will get exactly what I want

And I bought some material - dusty rose because I look slightly dead in white..

And I got enough material to make a replica of the gown for Amanda, my grand-daughter and flower girl.
 

At this point the dress is together but the zipper is not in and the hem is not done. After a recent illness I discovered I lost a few pounds so I might have to take it all in. For now I am waiting to see what my weight will do. I would hate to  make it smaller only to find I should have waited.

I was also able to make 2 hairpieces. One for me and a second smaller one for the flower girl.