An Essex Wedding - Page number 55 - July/August 2021 (Issue 99)

LOCAL PRODUCTS 55 MEET ALEXANDER MICHIE AND LYDIA PEARMAIN OF ALEX & US DESIGN Tell us about your company… We’re a couple of high-school sweethearts – Alex our graphic designer and Lydia the artist and illustrator. We offer all things paper, from invitation suites to name cards. We create handmade stationery and specialise in bespoke venue illustration. What’s your most popular wedding product? Our most popular product range is our Rococo suite. We have a selection of semi-custom invitation suites that are personalised to the client and can be adapted to suit their big day. Why should couples choose local suppliers for their wedding? With the wedding industry bouncing back there are some amazing new businesses out there, and it’s so important to support your neighbour! There’s no doubt that small companies have suffered during the pandemic, so it’s even more crucial that we choose to shop local. What does your dream customer look like? It would have to be someone who is quirky, colourful and not afraid to try something different. We love creating something unique for our couples that will be cherished forever. Alex loves minimal, bold designs, while Lydia loves florals and venue illustrations – together we make a great team. Visit www.alexandusdesign.co.uk MEET BILLY HARRISON OF COUTURIOSITY Tell us about your company… I offer a bespoke design service for brides who want to have their dream gown designed and handmade to their exact requirements. My background is in designing high street evening and bridalwear. However, I wanted to set up a business that allowed me to work one- on-one with brides for a more personalised and sentimental experience when choosing the most important dress of their life. What’s your most popular wedding dress? We find brides love a classic lace look, such as our Aurora lace gown, or the subtle sparkle of our Melody sequin tulle gown. Whatever style our brides choose, we can create something just as unique as her. Why should couples choose local suppliers for their wedding? Small businesses will go above and beyond to make your wedding as magical as possible. Local suppliers are delighted when you choose to shop with them; building a close relationship adds a special element to your day. What’s your favourite style? I love when a bride wants a unique element in their dress design. Having something that reflects your personality or the journey you’ve been on as a couple can add a beautiful element to your wedding dress, and the day as a whole. Visit https://couturiosity.co.uk www.lydiavictoria.co.uk www.lydiavictoria.co.uk