• Mehtap, you’ve styled many brides over the years. What initially drew you to bridal styling, and what do you love most about working with brides?

In my years of serving both Turkish & Hollywood stars from all over the world, I developed skills on giving customized exceptional services. I prepare celebrities for the spotlight; for their most special occasions such as their red carpet events and all kinds of shoots. I ’ve mastered in creating quality and unique services. 

In time I came to a realization that Brides go through major stress with their wedding  journey and have no professional support like  GBG (Gallery of Bride & Groom) to seek. I believe they are STARS too, they are the stars of their wedding day, so I decided that they should also be getting exceptional services by their own bridal stylists when preparing for their magical day. 

The most fascinating part of working with my brides is how I get to contribute into turning their dreams into reality. Seeing them walk down that aisle, seeing their eyes shine means the world to me.

• How would you describe the signature style of a #BÉGUMbride? What makes the brides who wear @begumbdh gowns stand out?

Begum’s signature is being timeless, modern, chic and elegant. Begum brides stand out because  Begum’s designs are so humble, they don’t over take the bride, her gowns are minimal yet there is always hidden treasure in either the creativity of the design, fabric or in the tailoring. 

• What are some key elements you consider when styling a #BÉGUMbride? How do you ensure that each bride’s look is unique and reflective of her personality?

Begum's gowns are already extraordinary, every piece has its own aura. When the gown is already a statement on its own, I'd usually advice my brides to go simple on rest of the details so nothing gets in the way of stealing the spotlight of the bride. However every bride has different characteristics and taste. It is all about how they want to look and feel. 

• Accessories can make or break a bridal look. What are your go-to accessories for a #BÉGUMbride? Do you have any tips for choosing the right accessories to complement a BÉGUM gown?

It all depends on the design. If I'm going for a loud design with more 3D and floral prints, I’d balance it with very minimal jewelry and plain  veil however if I'm going for a plain design than I’d style it with a statement jewelry. 

• What current trends in bridal fashion do you see aligning well with @begumbdh designs? How can #BÉGUMbrides incorporate these trends while maintaining a timeless look? 

 

BÉGUMbrides is always up to date with trends & fashion. I like how she plays with lace & 3D prints together yet still creates modern finishes. It is her cut that is timeless. Therefore applying trends in her designs or not, she will always maintain a timeless look. 

• Many brides love to add personal touches to their wedding look. How do you help #BÉGUMbrides customize their styling? Can you share any memorable customizations you’ve worked on?

Firstly I analyze my brides on a personal note. I create a tight bond with them. After getting to understand their personal style, I present them extra ideas for what we could create to complete their general look. Once again I'd like to underline it is all about their characteristics and taste. My job is to help them reflect their best version. 

One of my recent bride was going for a super simple strapless mini white dress for one of her bridal looks. I guided her in adding an enormous round hat with a veil attached to it from the back that was hanging down to her waist with an extra lace veil covering half of her face. We also had gloves high up to her elbows. It turned out to be an ICONIC look in the end. I could proudly say, it was most truly one of the best bridal looks I've ever seen. 

• What advice would you give to future #BÉGUMbrides who are currently in the process of planning their wedding look? Any do’s and don’ts they should keep in mind?

My sincerest advice would be;

1. not to limit on the quality of the wedding dress because of budget restrictions. If they have a budget concern, I advice that they deduct from other expenses but not to cut down from the wedding dress budget. Brides dream for this day their whole life. It is once in a lifetime and they deserve to look and feel flawless. 

2. to make sure they do enough searching on wedding dress styles to see what they like or don't like

3. not to get many people's opinion on either choosing the wedding dress or any other details about the wedding journey because it could lead to more of a bigger confusion. Always to listen to your inner voice.

4. last but not least is to work with a bridal stylist. This is the most unique time of all for brides. They deserve professionals who they can rely on, who will transform them to their dream bride and turn their journey into a magical one!.

• Lastly, how do you see bridal styling evolving in the coming years, and what role do you believe #BÉGUMbrides will play in shaping these trends?

As creating GBG (Gallery of Bride & Groom) being the FIRST Bridal Styling Concept in Turkiye, I take pride in saying GBG started a new era for brides. And that new era is brides working with bridal stylists. We're attracting brides from all over the world. It is a great indication to show that “bridal styling” is the new VALUE for brides. 

In my last words I'd like to add, our biggest power is working with top designers who we trust in delivering the best results. Designers are the most crucial part of our work. BegumBrides is a true reflection of a dream bride. Knowing their professionalism and quality in designs gives us comfort in presenting them to our brides. With BegumBrides we know we will always score the best results.