One good thing leads to another and it has certainly been the case between Matron of Style and photographers, Lin & Jirsa! We continue our post from last night by getting straight to business…style business.
Mai’s vision of her dream ao dai was brought to life by designer Thai Nguyen. Her femme, romantic and chic ao dai was a culmination of her need for that new, new! When I began probing into Mai & Thai’s collaboration—not to be confused with Mai Tai — I learned that this girl loves…I mean LOVES couture wedding gown designers and cooed over Galia Lahav, Norma Bridal Couture and Steve Khalil. These actual photos from Mai’s phone allowed Thai to brilliantly translate romantic design elements to an ao dai of her dreams.
From Mai: “My silver ao dai was a collaboration with Thai who beautifully blended Vietnamese style and modern […] elements. The sheer back, long train, and delicate lace embroidery touched upon [Western style] details, but the high neck and headdress (khan dong) honored the Vietnamese heritage.”
She absolutely treasured her experience with Thai revealing he was the least of her worries during wedding planning. Mai actually consulted and commissioned Thai Nguyen Atelier eight months in advance of the big day. She gushed about how professional he was following through with her every request and feeling confidant about getting exactly what she wanted. What became of their collaboration was what Mai called, “an incredible piece of art…[that] exceeded all expectations…”
The finished ao dai won over her heart so deeply, that Mai seriously considered forgoing a white wedding gown all together. The Vietnamese pride runs deep with this one! She ultimately decided she’d wear this masterpiece at her wedding reception to chao ban or to greet and thank her guests by table.
Mai wasn’t done obsessing yet though. She opted for a post wedding session to bask in happiness with Nham and the ao dai of her dreams.
And if the love between Mai & Nham wasn’t any more evident, she extends her love and gratitude for their beautiful day to those nearest and dearest:
“My wedding would not have been possible without the hard work and talent of all the amazing vendors. However, I would especially like to thank my wedding planner, Anh, of Sweet Events by Anh, who was there every step of the way taking care of all the details and the team of Lin & Jirsa who captured so many amazing moments. In addition, I would like to thank my parents, family, and friends who shared our special day with us and made it such a memorable, cherished experience. My husband and I are incredibly blessed and know we will continue to have their love and support for the future to come.”
Just stop! Stop it now! Mai, you are just the sweetest sweetheart!
For more of Mai & Nham’s wedding and wedding details, check out Lin & Jirsa’s blog post here.
Photography–duh: Lin & Jirsa
Mai’s silver ao dai: Thai Nguyen Atelier
Mai’s Hair & Make-up: Lulu Nguyen
Nham’s blue ao gam: Lua Dao
[…] I don’t regret my decision at all. In fact, I wish I did a post bridal session, like Bride Mai, to capture more details of my wedding áo dài. My mom was helpful too! She encouraged me to […]