Brisbane Marriage Celebrant Andrew Sinclair catches up with Ronnie Gannon from Forever Bridal and Formal, Brisbane.
Ronnie, thanks for your time. Tell us about Forever Bridal and Formal.
Forever Bridal and Formal is a locally owned boutique-style bridal store since 2001. We guarantee a personalised service to find the dream dress for any Wedding or Formal occasion. Our professional team of stylists offer free styling advice as we genuinely care about the perfect fit of the dress to suit your silhouette and style, rather than brands or fashion latest trends. We carry sizes 6 to 26, an extensive range of accessories, and with our In-house alteration service we can customise any dress to make you look the best you can be. Our goal is to make shopping enjoyable and stress-free by having the largest range in off-rack dresses in Brisbane ready to purchase immediately especially suited to our local clientele. At Forever Bridal and Formal our motto is SEE, TOUCH, FEEL and TRY our off-the-rack gowns.Forever Bridal and Formal.is a locally owned boutique-style bridal store since 2001. We guarantee a personalised service to find the dream dress for any Wedding or Formal occasion. Our professional team of stylists offer free styling advice as we genuinely care about the perfect fit of the dress to suit your silhouette and style, rather than brands or fashion latest trends. We carry sizes 6 to 26, an extensive range of accessories, and with our In-house alteration service we can customise any dress to make you look the best you can be. Our goal is to make shopping enjoyable and stress-free by having the largest range in off-rack dresses in Brisbane ready to purchase immediately especially suited to our local clientele. At Forever Bridal and Formal our motto is SEE, TOUCH, FEEL and TRY our off-the-rack gowns.
What was your catalyst for entering the bridal and formal business?
I am very passionate about making women of any age look and feel their absolute best for their special occasion; whether that is their wedding day, formal or black-tie event. In my younger years I sewed and made my own clothes as well as always having a flair for accessorizing, and even did some modelling in my early 20’s. I also owned a jewellery boutique and so I’ve always had a passion for fashion which helps me assist brides with any dress choice and create their own style.
Tell me about the clientele you cater to?
I am finding there is a real need to carry more affordable gowns that are suited to our “Queensland-style” for Bridal and Formal wear in all shapes and sizes from 6-26 and from all walks of life. From petite to curvy and plus sizes, from younger clients looking for “one-of-a-kind” styles to mature client wanting modest yet stylish gowns, or catering to certain cultural needs that need covered shoulders and flattering necklines. Whether it is for special occasions from business Awards night, Gala Event to a Cruise dinner event, mother-of-the bride, your own wedding or vow renewal ceremony – we can find a dress to suit everyone and every body.
Fashion changes, what is on trend this year and what do you think will be on trend in 2022?
Our client base is culturally diverse, and I see more and more brides marrying into other cultures. Therefore there is a return to more conservative classic wedding styles, not too revealing, low cut or see-through bodies as has been in the past few years. I feel 2022 will bring a return to the classics like satins and silks, with more modern simplistic styles, and with comfort also being a consideration.
If you have one favourite wedding tip for couples what would it be?
You love your partner, so my tip is to make your wedding day as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. Keep things simple and don’t over-complicate the event. Invite guests and family you want to make your day special, and that you will still be friends with in 5 years’ time.
How do you see future demand once we pass the COVID-19 hurdle?
At present there are a lot of smaller more elopements and intimate family ceremonies. Wedding parties and receptions are being delayed until travel is more accessible to all. So as we get through the COVID restrictions, Brides and Grooms will return to larger weddings and gatherings. In turn when interstate and international travel opens up, we will definitely see a return to themed and destination weddings.
On a lighter note ….
If a couple asked you for a honeymoon location tip, how would you respond?
My Honeymoon tip would be to go somewhere you don’t have to make any decisions! Usually after the wedding most couples are exhausted and just need time to unwind and be together. An all-inclusive resort or package with no decisions on where to go and what to do would be my suggestion.
Have you had your 5 minutes of fame?
Business-wise, even during the past two challenging years, we have received great recognition by Brides Choice Awards! In 2021 we were awarded #1 Winner Brisbane and Top 5 Nationally for Bridesmaids & Formal Wear; as well as Top 10 Bridal Couture Brisbane. We have also been listed in Wedding Diaries 2022 – Top 10 Editor’s Choice for Bridal Gowns Brisbane. Personally, in the 1980’s I was on a TV dating program called “Perfect Match”!
After a busy Saturday at your store how do you unwind?
Saturdays are our busiest days and so I firstly tend to unwind by sitting down, as it may be the first time I have sat down all day, just to gather my thoughts. Once home I like to relax with my family, watch a movie or catch-up on a Netflix series.
Something others may not know about you?
I was born and raised in New Farm and have always had an affinity with the north-side, so it’s exciting to see the revitalisation of the Stafford Road shopping precinct. I actually still live on the Sunshine Coast, where I originally started my business, and commute back home at the end of each week.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Forever Bridal & Formal has been recognised:
Wedding Diaries 2022 – Top 10 Editor’s Choice for Bridal Gowns Brisbane
Australian Wedding Awards 2021 – Top 5 National for Bridesmaids & Formal Wear
Brides Choice Awards Brisbane 2021 – Winner for Bridesmaids & Formal Wear
Brides Choice Awards Brisbane 2021 – Top 10 for Bridal Couture
Wedding Diaries 2021 – Top 10 Editor’s Choice for Bridal Gowns Brisbane
Brides Choice Awards Brisbane 2020 – Highly Commended for Bridal Couture
Brides Choice Awards Brisbane 2019 – Highly Commended/Top 10 for Bridal Couture
Brides Choice Awards Sunshine Coast 2018 – Highly Commended for Bridesmaids & Formal Wear
www.foreverbridal.com.au
