The Dress With Sarah Wood

The journey

Finding my dream wedding dress was surprisingly effortless, thanks to the exceptional service I experienced in every bridal boutique I visited, especially at Halfpenny London, where I ultimately found my dress. Across three appointments, I tried on around 20 dresses in a variety of styles and silhouettes, but the moment I stepped into my own dress, I instantly knew it was The One. I played it quite safe with my choice, as my personal style has always been simple and classic. Knowing I was getting married in Mallorca in July, I also wanted something that felt light and breathable enough for the heat without compromising on elegance.

The vision

I had a clear vision of the dress I was looking for from the outset. I knew I wanted something figure-hugging or slinky, with a low back and a silhouette that felt suited to a Mallorca wedding. Simplicity was key – I wanted something timeless and understated. As I’m petite, it was important that the dress complemented my frame without feeling overwhelmed by fabric, and I really felt my dress suited both my proportions and bone structure perfectly.

The decision

I actually found choosing my wedding dress to be one of the easiest parts of the wedding planning process. I’ve always loved fashion and trying on clothes, so the whole experience felt really enjoyable. It was fun to step outside my comfort zone too – I loved trying on styles I knew I was never going to choose, like princess gowns, because when else do you get the chance? The only challenge was sticking to my budget, as it’s very easy to get carried away when there are so many beautiful dresses to choose from.

The style support

My mum helped me find my dream dress, as did my best friend, Rea. They both completely understood the brief, so we made a great team. I also had the guidance of Isobel at Halfpenny London, who was incredible throughout the process. My dress wasn’t actually one I’d chosen to try on (it had completely passed me by on the website) but Isobel understood exactly what I was looking for and encouraged me to give it a chance. It turned out to be the best advice, because the moment I tried it on, I knew it was the one.

The accessories

I kept my accessories to a minimum because I was so keen for the overall look to feel clean and understated. That said, my shoes were a very important part of the outfit. Back in January, I’d chosen a pair of closed-toe patent Jimmy Choo heels (the Stevie 100), but as the UK weather started to warm up, I suddenly realised they probably weren’t the right choice for a destination wedding in Mallorca. Thankfully, they were still unworn and boxed, and thanks to the exceptional service at Jimmy Choo’s flagship store on New Bond Street, I was able to exchange them for the Saeda Sandal 100. They were every bit as beautiful but a much more practical choice for the Mediterranean heat.

My veil was also from Halfpenny London, and I absolutely loved it. It was a simple waterfall veil that made me feel so elegant, and I actually wore it for the entire wedding day!

My wedding band is a diamond band from Tiffany & Co., which inspired the rest of my jewellery. I kept everything in silver tones, wearing a pair of diamond pear-shaped earrings that climbed the ear before finishing with a delicate drop.

Advice for brides

My biggest piece of advice to future brides would be not to book too many appointments in one day. You don’t want to spend the experience rushing from one boutique to the next or constantly watching the clock. Instead, allow yourself to enjoy it. Make a day of it – plan a lovely lunch and spend quality time with whoever you’ve brought along. It should feel like a celebration, not another task on your wedding to-do list.

When it comes to trying on dresses, be open-minded. Bridal appointments aren’t free so make the most of them by trying on styles you might never have considered – you may be surprised by what suits you. I’d also recommend taking plenty of photos, videos and notes after each appointment, as once you’re home it’s surprisingly difficult to remember the details. Dress fatigue is definitely real!

Above all, enjoy every moment. It’s such a special experience, and one you’ll only get to have once.

Favourite photo

I love this photo because it captures my dress exactly as I’d imagined it. You can see the train in all its glory, the silhouette so clearly, and the beautiful two-tier veil. There happened to be a gentle breeze at just the right moment, lifting my veil in the evening sunshine, and I think it makes the image feel so romantic.

I also love the balance of the dress – the deep neckline gives it a touch of sexiness, but it still feels elegant and undeniably bridal. More than anything, though, this photo reminds me how happy I felt in that moment as the sun was setting. I think my smile says it all!