Three To Tango
by Ming Lee, 1 May 2006

"I would describe it as a natural evolution for the business," says the soft-spoken lady. "Our new branch at Delfi Orchard functions more like a gallery of sorts and still provides the services like the boutique in Cantonment Road. And its accessible location means more people will get to know us."

Not that brides need any introduction to Amanda's works. Famous for her cool, edgy designs, she's also known for being able to spruce them up with vibrant shades and motifs.

"I think colour does wonders for a gown. It not only enhances the theme of the wedding, but also highlights the bride's personality," she says. "Of course, the gown looks terrific in white, but imagine the stunning effect when a refreshing pink bouquet is placed at a strategic spot like the waist or across the chest."

Still, Amanda refuses to rest on her pretty laurels. To up the zing yet complement the signature Amanda Lee Weddings style, she's roped in two new designers, Miah and Xyza (pronounced Zeya), and appreciates the increased synergy and balance their creative differences is giving to the design process.

Take Miah. An ex-colleague of Amanda, he used to design for a fashion label until he decided to join Amanda Lee Weddings this year. While both look forward to combining their experience and expertise to create the "ultimate gown", they say they share a love for luxe fabrics and laces, even while admitting each serves like a sounding board for the other.

Miah likes Amanda's dexterity in pulling together various fashion elements into one gown, while she admires his ability to inject the right touch of drama into a design, "like how he would incorporate feathers to make for a more interesting effect."

Together, the three hope to be able to steer local brides towards bolder designs. "Stay open-minded for different ideas but style is a matter of personal choice, so choose something that matches your personality," advises Xyza. "If you feel adventurous enough, try a stronger colour contrast or even a pantsuit."

At the end of the day, Amanda maintains that having three designers will leave customers far from being short-changed.

"The style remains essentially true to the Amanda Lee Weddings character, but I believe each designer will garner his or her own fans in time to come," she says.

Amanda Lee Weddings is at 17 Cantonment Road (6223-1366) and #04-05 Delfi Orchard (6333-6678). For more information, log on to www.amandaleeweddings.com or e-mail info@amandaleeweddings.com. Appointment preferred.