Embellish, a bridal design studio in Portland, Oregon.
Specializing in custom wedding gowns and bridesmaids dresses.

Embellish
503-282-6228
ring for an appointment
design@embellishdesign.com

Portfolio
Photographs and illustrations of custom gowns and dresses from past weddings and from the current collection in the studio now.

  • Ceremony - hand-made gowns of sumptuous fabric, impeccable fit, sleek lines, simple to exquisite •radiant• choose from the collection or we'll design the dress you've seen only in your dreams—just for you—and no one else
  • Entourage - dresses for your wedding entourage, each highlighting individual beauty yet following your theme, wearable, fresh, fun •and never frumpy• (not even Mom’s) whether each dress is identical or not, each woman in your wedding party will have a dress that fits and becomes her, the best part—they'll want to wear them again and again and again...
  • Collection - gowns and party dresses, woolly sweaters or skirts with kick, you never know exactly what you’ll find; it’s just what’s struck my fancy •fun• there are always a few new finds at the studio, ready, waiting, call for an appointment, try it on, take it home, no two alike
  • Ensemble - a veil, a sparkly little purse, and a garter with exotic silk flowers, all that and more, each hand-made just for you •shoes, gloves, jewels• we'll work together to complete your look for your wedding day, a very personal statement, a very singular look
  • Celebration - smoldering & sultry, shimmer & sparkle, smooth & sleek •glamour• revel in the anticipation of dressing up for the event knowing you’ll be a knock out—how about a little black dress? ... what about pink?

Profile
Designing and sewing are my passions, I've been at it since I was knee high. First taught by my mom and eventually through my college years at Otis Parsons in Los Angeles and Oregon College of Arts and Crafts in Portland. I've been in business professionally designing and creating clothing in one form or another since 1985. In addition to designing at the studio, I teach others the art and skill of creating beautiful clothing.

Process
The first step is to call for a complimentary consultation. When you come, bring with you your ideas, photos, sketches and any other items that will describe what you want your dress to look & feel like. At that meeting we will discuss design ideas, fabric options and your budget range. The gowns I create range from $900 to $2500. Maids and moms dresses start at $250 and go up from there (average $300-350).

Once we decide to work together on your dress, sketches will be drawn and fabrics chosen. I work mostly with natural fiber fabrics; sumptuous silks, delicate laces, crisp linens, soft cottons and warm wools. Each dress is custom fit for each client. I use a traditional haute couture method of draping the design directly on you. You get to see and participate in the creation and shape of the design.

From there a pattern is made and the dress is constructed. You will need to plan for at least two-three fittings and possibly more if the dress is highly detailed. It usually takes at least four months to design and complete a wedding dress, although you can always call to see if I can fit you in the schedule on a shorter time frame. I try to make the process as fun as possible, and you are welcome to bring your entourage along for the fittings.

Please feel free to call me between 9:30 am and 7:30 pm PST,
or send an e-mail for more information.

Terri Spaeth-Merrick Designer/Owner
503-282-6228
design@embellishdesign.com

Press
Articles written about or mentioning Embellish:

Links
Some of my favorite photographers, florists, jewelers, cake bakers, planners and other wedding vendors:

©Terri Spaeth-Merrick, Embellish 2006/2007;
© Web Design, Embellish
For an image based version of this site, click here.
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