The Dress
January 11th, 2007 @ 8:19 pm by Mrs. Plumeria
So, I know I never followed up with the post about two-dress brides ’’⬔ but in the time that’s passed between that post and this one, I became one! 
I totally didn’t see this coming, but I can honestly say that I am glad I made the decision to switch dresses. Despite what it might sound like, I didn’t really break the bank ’’⬔ total price for both gowns combined, even if I don’t sell the first one, is still less than many spend on a single dress. This is mainly because of the fantastic deal I got on the first dress at a local bridal shop, as well as the helpful vendor I purchased the new dress from: Debra La Spina Goldwater, of Dori Anne Veils.
I was researching discounters online when I came upon very favorable reviews for Dori Anne Veils. Upon looking at the website, I was astounded to discover that Debra’s store (by appointment only) is located close by to me, in the East Bay Area. I promptly made an appointment to discuss bridesmaids’ dresses and accessories, and maybe to steal a few looks at her discounted in-stock gowns, and swung by a few days later.
From her demeanor to the details of her store, which is a small shop in a residential area, I found everything at Debra’s to be completely charming (and for those of you not in the CA Bay Area: she is most definitely a source to be trusted to order from over the web). We had a nice chat about wedding-related stuff, and then it happened: I saw The Dress hanging up on a wardrobe near the front of the shop. Debra picked it up, a new 2007 sample, and asked if I wanted to try it on. Once I did, there was pretty much no going back… especially after she told me her price for it, which was wayyyy less than I could have gotten it for elsewhere, and enabled me to take the plunge and order this’’⬦ the dress of my dreams!
Images from Jasmine Bridal; Jasmine Couture H939
Concerning the other dress, after Miss Lime’s great post about what to do with the dress afterwards, I’m now thinking through the many options ’’⬔ but if there’s a petite girl who’s a size 0 in street clothes and about 5′1’’β¬? looking for a really nice gown (it was an issue of style that didn’t work out) for cheap, please email me at plumeria@weddingbee.com for details and pictures. I’m planning to sell the dress above after May, too, so email me about that if you’re tiny, getting married after May, and love it as much as I do!
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20 Responses to “The Dress”
I love that dress. I love Jasmine dresses in general, very pretty.
I love your dress. You know this may sound funny to you but I was also at Debra’s place this past Saturday and I was there the same time you were there. I knew you looked familiar but I couldn’t place where I’ve seen you before and it just so happened I saw you here on weddingbee. I was the girl picking up her dress… lol. Anyways just wanted to let you know
What is your first dress? Do you have pictures to share?
wow. that dress is so pretty!
oooh your dress is so nice. and its great to know there’s someone local for discounts on dresses.
Thanks; I love it too!!
Pencils, the waistline comes down lower on the left side that on the right to balance the assymetrical draping… it’s very flattering. 
Tina: so funny!! I actually ordered my dress at Debra’s a month or so and I just happened to be there Saturday helping my good friend find a dress. Actually I had thought I overheard you tell your friend that you thought I looked familiar, but I wasn’t sure you were mistaking me for someone else because I didn’t recognize you. I forgot about my pics on here, haha. Anyway, good choice buying from Debra and best wishes with your wedding!
And HM: it’s a Casablanca 1818. I do have pics; if you’d like to see them feel free to email me!!
Girls who emailed me — I will be replying to those tonight with pics!!
miss plumeria - you’re famous!
Miss Plumeria–I love my Casablanca gown (1843), but I definitely prefer the Jasmine to your Casablanca. Good choice! They’re similar, I can see why you chose both, but the Jasmine has better lines.
I also have a jasmine aren’t they gorgeous? And so much lower in price than most!
Haha, Bee — we were just talking about that, meeting people through Weddingbee. It’s the first time (and only) it’s happened to me though! Weird!
Oh, and Pencils — thanks! I completely agree w/ your opinion/assessment of the two gowns. Your dress is very pretty, btw; especially the train. It is so refreshing to see a nice dress w/ straps!
Can’t wait to see you in your dress with alterations complete! You’ll look so pretty! Must post pictures when you have your last fitting!
I had noted this a dress to look at when I was looking online and in magazines, but it was forgotten in the shuffle. I was at a bridal shop looking for a Maggie Sottero dress, when the girl at the store came over with this Jasmine dress and said they had just gotten it in. I recognized it from the magazine and agreed to try it on, and I LOVED IT! The ruched chest area really flatters and the dress really shapes me well, it actually gave me curves! It’s a great dress that looks even better on. I haven’t completely stopped shopping yet, but I’m pretty sure I’ll be getting this dress!!!
I just thought I’d mention that I am going ahead and ordering this dress as well! The retail price was $878, and the bridal shop gave me a discount since I am ordering my bridesmaids dresses at the same place. So, I am getting this dress for $778! Not bad at all! I am also relieved because we just ordered our bridesmaids dresses, Alvina Valenta 9686 in petal! Leave it up to me to order my bridesmaids dresses before my dress! Oh well.
I love this dress!! I just went shopping for the first time and got this dress for $599!! AWESOME price!! I just adore the style. I’m sure you’ll look fantastic in it . . . !
Yay!! It’s so exciting to see other girls w/ this dress. You will LOVE it!!
To Lovely, where did you purchase your dress? Im looking for the same one and want a reasonable price. Please email me back at mandyraedennis@yahoo.com
Mandy, you have mail. The details of the purchase can be found in the post above. I highly recommend Debra from http://www.dorianneveils.com; she can offer you great service and an excellent price. Give her a call to find out how much it would cost to buy and send to you, if you can’t visit her in person as I did.
Mrs. Plumeria,
Do you have either of the dresses available? I emailed but wanted to post here too - just in case. Thanks! -foounke@gmail.com -pam
Mrs. Plumeria, San Francisco
Age and Occupation in 06: 22, Graphic Designer
Fiance's Age and Occupation: 24, High School Teacher
Engagement Date: December 30, 2005
Wedding Date: May 12, 2007
Venue: Hotel Ballroom
About Me: I love all things artsy and unique, and it has become a passion of mine to incorporate these attributes into my wedding (and become DIY royalty in the process). Other than dreaming up projects for the wedding, my latest hobbies include working on my computer, playing with my cute pet bunny, or shopping at Target/Barnes and Noble with my fiance.
Gorgeous dress–I had noted that one during my dress hunt. It’s quite different in many ways, isn’t it? I love how the skirt is asymmetrical–is there a smaller pleat or gathering on the other side to balance it? Anyway, it’s lovely, congrats on getting the gown of your dreams, and in a great deal, too!