I have fallen head over (high) heels in love with Shani’s chic, high fashion style! With a background in fashion design, she had a clear vision of what she wanted her wedding dress to look like. And with the help of the amazing dress designer Ines Di Santo, Shani made her dream dress a reality! Details like the crystal adorned bodice and fabulous feathers on the skirt, make this dress is nothing less than exquisite and unforgettable….enjoy!
Shani + Gary | September 17, 2011 | Old Westbury, New York
The ceremony
The ceremony was held at the de Seversky Mansion in Old Westbury, on the picturesque blue stone patio overlooking the great north lawn and du Pont Lake. The de Seversky Mansion is a “diamond in the rough” – the exquisite venue is unfamiliar to many and is the best kept secret as the estate is inconspicuously nestled on the campus of New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) on Long Island’s Gold Coast. My husband is an NYIT graduate and was never even aware of the mansion – that’s how tucked away it is!
The reception
We had a European style wedding as my guests were able to explore the mansion as the evening progressed. The ceremony on the “Patio” illustrated the mansion’s beautifully manicured landscape which was great for pictures. Cocktail hour took place in the “Library” and the “Terrace Room.” Each room displayed characteristics of refined elegance and an inviting ambiance to our guests. Dinner was held in “The Garden Room” and the “Dining Room” each room displaying a unique dining experience to our guest. Dancing, the cake cutting ceremony and the throwing of the bouquet took place in the grandiose “Ballroom” with views of the east lawn.
How Shani found her dream wedding gown
I knew exactly what I was looking for in the search for my dream wedding dress. Hence, it was quite challenging locating a bridal salon that carried gowns that matched my vision. I went to many New York City couture bridal salons. Bridal Reflections on Fifth Avenue was the only salon that carried the designer that I was hopelessly searching for without knowing so… and so I was introduced to designer Ines Di Santo. Ines Di Santo and I collaboratively created my gown based on my vision and design. We used the corset bodice of an original gown of the designer but made significant changes to the pattern with respect to design. Additionally, the skirt of the dress was completely re-designed to silk satin organza ruffles with feathers and strategically placed hand sewn Swarovski crystals. In the end, Ines Di Santo delivered my dream dress as it mirrors my personal style and exudes vintage glamour.
How Shani felt in her wedding dress
My wedding dress made me feel absolutely dazzling, ultra feminine and charmingly alluring.
Why Shani decided to sell her wedding dress
I heavily debated about selling my gown as it holds much sentimental value to me due to it being my wedding dress and my creative design. However, I would love to share my dress with another woman who appreciates the masterful construction of haute couture and is looking for that avant-garde gown for their special day.
