Q&A WITH OWNER & DESIGNER NAOMI PERIS

Tell us a little about your background?
At the early age of 17 I decided to apply for art school, however, after taking a closer look at my portfolio I was advised to take up Fashion School instead. This was a pivotal decision in my life that would catapult me into the fashion industry. After completing my Diploma of Fashion Design at the Canberra Institute of Technology, I spent several years designing and painstakingly making bespoke clothing for women and also for men.

How did you begin your business?
It all started at a time when most of my friends were getting married and they found it so hard to find the right wedding gown. The problem was that not all bridal boutiques carried exactly what brides wanted to wear. Many of my friends were even travelling out of state. With my experiencing in clothing manufacturing, I knew that I could design and make custom made wedding gowns, so I decided to target the market for bespoke bridalwear.

What do you enjoy the most about what you do?
When I’m designing a collection, I love seeing my creations come to life from sketch to sample gowns. I get a nervous excitement when I open my samples for the first time.

How would you describe your products?
My gowns target the modern, sexy bride. This is someone who wants something different, that suits their personality and style.

Your favorite piece from the collection and why?
I love all the gowns with beading. I focused a lot on beading for this collection and sourced rare beautiful fabrics and used hand beading to finish them. One of my favorite pieces is Paradise, as it’s a gorgeous sheer gown with delicate lace and full beading with ostrich feathers and pearls!

Top tip for Brides when picking their look for their day?
The most important thing a bride should consider when choosing a gown is to know their body type, and choose fabrics and a style that matches their personality. Wear what makes you feel good. Your gown should imbue confidence, comfort, and style.

What are some of the special features of your product?
Well, I’m not a shop, and don’t carry stock for people to try on. I design, make and produce individual wedding gowns to match peoples’ personality and style. I have also created an app on my website where brides can have the freedom to design their own dress and receive an instant quote.

What inspires you in your business?
I’m always inspired by everything around me. It could be a piece of art, a song, or a piece of fabric. Being motivated is easy when you have a passion for what you do.

How regularly can brides expect to see new collections?
I normally produce a collection every year that I showcase down the runway, create a unique photoshoot and of course it’ll be on my website, my Instagram and Facebook.