At first I considered naming this blog "that one time I met Martha Stewart" but I figured since my trip encompassed several DAYS I would focus on the fact that I got to go to New York Bridal Fashion Week instead! More on that story later...
As the features editor for Tidewater and Tulle, a local wedding blog, I am often given amazing opportunities thanks to my boss and friend Chelsea. When she asked if I wanted to explore New York as the whole city transformed to host bridal fashion week, I immediately said yes! We made travel arrangements, nailed down final details, and I was ready to go.
My trip started right after the hurricane wedding weekend in Maymont. Nathan dropped me off at the bus station that night and I took the overnight Greyhound to the city. I was freezing and barely slept, so when I got to New York at 5:30am with severe exhaustion and rain pounding my face, all I could think about was a nice warm bed! Add in an hour trek and I fell into the comfort at the Omni Berkshire for as long as I could before my first appointment.
I won't go into detail on each appointment, but what basically happened is that I would meet with accessory or dress designers (Heidi Elnora, Liv Hart, Austin Scarlett, and Elizabeth Bower, to name a few) and represent either Tidewater and Tulle or Polka Dot Bride. I would take pictures, post on social media, and build relationships with these lovely fashionistas. Sometimes there would be buyers along on the private appointment, and sometimes I would be the only one in attendance. To say I was out of my comfort zone was an understatement, but each person kindly welcomed me in with open arms and I soon began to feel more at ease.
I also had the pleasure of attending a few group events. BHLDN put on a styled breakfast in a gorgeous open space near the World Trade Center to showcase their new designs, and one evening I got to attend a fashion show (my first!) featuring Muse by Modern Trousseau. That was certainly a different experience - the photographers need a straight shot down the catwalk so we weren't allowed to lean forward, cross our legs, or do any number of other things!
The highlight of the trip was probably attending Martha Steward's Bridal Fashion Week Party. The event took place on three floors. On the bottom floor were red carpet style photo ops, a projected dance floor, a DJ, and violinists playing along with the music on top of pedestals. Floor six featured food, drinks, a modern live band, and an area to create a printed flip book. The rooftop had Latin Music and a gorgeous view of the New York skyline. When I first came in, I saw several people I recognized - Randy from Say Yes to the Dress and, of course, Martha Stewart. Martha was taking press photos and was set to leave shortly thereafter.
I saw her from a distance but knew I wouldn't be chatting with her at all that evening. When we went to the rooftop, as I waited for the ladies with me to get pictures of the sunset, Martha walked up near where we were to do the same, flanked by her entourage. I hesitated for one second and then decided...now or never! So I walked right up to her and ask for a picture. She hesitated for a second then agreed for a photo as long as it was quick. I practically threw my phone at Chelsea, she documented the moment, and Martha walked out and away from the party.
So there was my encounter with Martha Stewart! Quick but truly unforgettable. That night I grabbed a few hours of sleep, then jumped on an Amtrak heading back home the next morning. I arrived back at my house exhausted, exhilarated, and so grateful for the opportunity to visit New York - I already can't wait for next year!
