The couple: Emily Rosenthal and James Allen

Wedding date: November 9, 2013

Photographer: Kristi Wright Photography | www.kristiwrightphotography.com

They say that history repeats itself—a statement gorgeously reflected in the heirloom-inspired wedding gown Nardos Imam designed for the lovely Emily Allen.

“I wanted to incorporate my husband’s family veil into whatever wedding dress design I ultimately decided on,” Emily said. “I was honored to be able to carry on this family tradition and knew I would need to find a dress that would coordinate with the veil.” 

While many brides select a veil after purchasing a wedding dress, Emily and Nardos approached the design process in reverse—the cathedral length Brussels veil, which was originally purchased by James’ grandmother and worn by many of his aunts, provided the initial point-of-reference for Emily’s gown. To complement the Princess, Duchess and Rose Point lace featured in the veil, Nardos created a cap-sleeved sweetheart bodice and removable overlay of Alençon lace that rested just beneath the bride’s collarbone. Lace-covered buttons highlighted the gown’s scooped back and natural waist, which bloomed into an A-line skirt of silk tulle accented by the addition of a Swarovski crystal belt during the reception. The gown’s feminine shape, delicate fabrics and vintage veil combined to provide an elegant contrast to the Austin Hill Country surroundings of the couple’s rustic-classic ceremony and reception at Wild Onion Ranch.

“Nardos listened to everything I liked and did not like, and within minutes came up with an idea for the perfect wedding dress I had been imagining but was unable to describe,” Emily said. “I only wish that I could wear my wedding dress more than once in a lifetime!”

A Dallas-based writer and artist, Nardos Imam guest blogger Karley Kiker has interned for Us Weekly and D Magazine, worked as an au pair in Southern France, and attended parties as a society columnist for People Newspapers. Her bridal guide, Hitched in a Hurry: The ultimate how-to for a speedy “I do,” published April 3, 2014. To learn more, visit www.hitchedinahurrybook.com.