Even before my niece met her husband, she stated that her dress was going to be made by me. So when she got engaged a couple of years ago, the dress planning began.
First, there was a visit to a bridal shop to see what style she liked best. Then the pattern closest to that style was purchase. Last Christmas, Jess and I shopped the garment district in NYC for lace. With that purchased, we then purchased a taffeta at The Fabric Place Basement.
In June, came measurements and gingham mock-ups. By the end of August, the dress was assembled. All that was left was the lace. Experimenting with placement took a while. The resulting dress is gorgeous. 
Love you Jess & Colin
AC
Beautiful! Cathy, outstanding!!