Our shopfront profiles offer a fab opportunity to jump behind the scenes and get to know some seriously talented humans in the wedding industry. Today you get to e-meet one of our faves, first featured in Issue 24, Amy Oram of Love Marie. This gorgeous bridal boutique is located in a sweet little arcade in Camden, NSW. If you fancy visiting Amy in-store she recommends you “allow some extra time for a delicious lunch, the most amazing coffee, a killer burger or a sweet treat!” Sounds divine! So without further ado scroll down for some details and behind the scenes shots…
Can you tell us about your beautiful new boutique? Our gown selection was growing and I just didn’t have space. The opportunity arose to move into a premise twice the size. It was raw and I was nervous about how I would set up the same intimate vibe with a cozy feel. It needed a lot of love and but I am super happy with the new space.
How long have you had your boutique and what inspired you to open it in the first place? Love Marie began after years of designing and hand-making headpieces for brides and also styling for bridal magazines and photoshoots. Brides were always saying they would love to have a place where they could purchase a gown and have a headpiece designed. This combined with the fact that the gowns I loved most were not available in Australia allowed me to see a gap in the market. July 2015 Love Marie opened its doors in a very small but super cosy studio space in Camden that was about 10m2. Then July 2018 Love Marie moved to its current location. 100 square metres to be filled with all things bridal.
What are you most proud of when it comes to Love Marie? The story behind the boutique. Love Marie is named after my gorgeous Grandma, Marie Barrow. She was my biggest fan and supporter. She just adored everything I was doing and wanted to know everything about everything. And I adored her back.
What designers grace the racks of Love Marie? Currently, we have 11 designers in store. The latest additions being from Melbourne Jane Hill Bridal, Georgia Young Couture and Rish Bridal. Other designers include CHOSEN By One Day Bridal, Alyssa Kristin, Tatyana Merenyuk, Daughters of Simone, Tara Lauren, Truvelle, Rembo Styling and Tadashi Shoji. The aim of the curation is to provide gowns that are quite exclusive. You will notice that the designers in the boutique are not stocked anywhere else in Australia, or if they are, often we are the only stockist in NSW.
Price range? Prices at Love Marie range from $1500 to $9000. Your average gown price would be around $3000 – $5000.
What else can we find instore? One of the most exciting additions that came last year is my bridesmaid collection by Leave Her Wilder, a gorgeous brand from New Zealand. They come in various styles to suit various body shapes. You pick your colour, your style, your size, and then they are made to order especially for your tribe. I have also built an amazing curation of bridal jewellery – both headpieces and accessories. Some amazing labels like Maison Roe, Lelet, Lia Terni, A.B. Ellie, Twigs and Honey and of course my bespoke headpiece label Teeki.
Shopping tips for Brides seeking ‘the one’? I think its really important to choose who you take shopping with you wisely. Make sure your tribe knows what you’re looking for and respects your choices and your style. I find it really beneficial if a bride comes on her own or with just one person whose opinion they value highly. Then once they have narrowed it down to their favourites then I suggest bringing the tribe to show them and help you pick from there.
How far in advance should a bride make an appointment with Love Marie? I am appointment only. Generally, weekends book out around a month in advance. I suggest looking 10-16 months out from your wedding. No longer. Most of my designers need a minimum of 6 months to make something happen for you. To enjoy the process and to make it relaxing with no stress I do recommend ordering 7-8 months before your big day.
Favourite trends of 2019? I have definitely seen a shift towards the more minimalistic look. Clean lines with a focus on the silhouette of the female figure. The beauty of these gowns is that the focus is on you!
Where can our readers find you? A short walk from the previous location, Love Marie is now located in a bubbly little arcade in Camden. The Studio is by appointment only Tuesday to Sunday. We like to call it “Bridal Alley” as I am right across from the Clementine Posy Bridal Studio.
If you fancy checking out some of Love Marie’s stunning offering then pop on over to our Love Marie x Alyssa Kristin post to see one of the boutiques exclusive brands in action. Now scroll down for those shots we were talking about…
CREDITS Photos Scott Surplice Photography Bridal Boutique Love Marie