Alex Reilly
- May 22, 2022
- 3 min read

Pretty Woman ‘Real Bride’ - Rachael Maudsley

A wonderfully romantic wedding to celebrate the love between two soul mates. We adore this love story and the beautiful pictures that captured their special day.

Rachaels Justin Alexander dress(style 88122) was the perfect ball gown for their church wedding. This romantic sweetheart neckline wedding dress is simply stunning. Delicate lace straps create an off-the-shoulder neckline , while modern floral appliqués adorn the bodice and cascade down the layers of tulle skirt. This was definitely a dance all night kind of dress.

It was a joy to play a part in Rachaels special day and we are delighted she chose to be a Pretty Woman bride.

1. We would love to know your proposal story?

We got engaged on the 13th of December 2020

Cameron's sister (Mhairi) took me to get my nails done on East Market St. When we got back out to our car there was a parking ticket on it - I was shocked as I'd checked the parking myself. Mhairi opened it and it had a note from Cameron leading to a 'treasure map' in the back of the car. The map led to the top of Edinburgh Castle where Cameron stood alone with an umbrella (not a visitor in sight, shockingly but they'd politely cleared the area just before). Our wedding photographer was there but hiding at the church bit so I didn't realise she was there until I said 'yes', (well I cried so not sure the actual words came out of my mouth). And that was that, it was super cute and romantic and the day was the perfect grey Edinburgh winter day!

2. What made you visit Pretty Woman?

I was living with a friend a few doors down for a couple months and everyday I walked passed I was desperate to get in to try some dresses on. My bestie Rowan who I was a bridesmaid for in Oct 2020 got her beautiful dress from Pretty Woman and recommended you!

3. How long did you search for your bridal dress and what made you decide it was the one?

I had found the Justin Alexander dress (that I chose) on Pinterest and messaged to ask if you stocked it and you did! I visited PW first and Lynn recommended to pick out a few different styles and try those on before the one just to make sure and it really helped cause I cried as soon as I tried the dress on I said yes there and then and cancelled my other appointments - (still dream about it aha).

4. Were your wedding plans impacted by COVID?

We were very lucky that covid didn't really impact our plans. We planned for 1 year 4 months from our engagement so we had time to plan and hoping that it would give time for us to have a normal wedding. We were so thankful when the announcement came saying that masks weren't mandatory for weddings from early April which meant we were in the clear. We missed a handful of guests due to being positive but as far as we know no one at the wedding had it which was a miracle.

5. What was your personal highlight of your wedding day?

I loved our ceremony best, before the wind blew my veil everywhere and turned my hair upside (it was a beautiful day, just a bit windy). It honestly just felt like it was just Cameron and I standing up at the alter and for a moment I forgot we were standing in front of 150+ people. We were so excited for that moment we both said our vows and it exceeded our expectations. And it was so lovely to share that moment with our friends and family.

6. If you could give one piece of advice for future Pretty Woman brides about to embark on their bridal journey what would it be?

Enjoy every moment, the planning, the prep, the week leading up, and the day. It all flies by and it's so nice to soak it all up. - don't let any stresses take over and enjoy this special time in your life.

7. Besides from Pretty Woman was there any other supplier involved in your big day that you just have to recommend to other brides?

Yes, our photographer Melody was just amazing. I can't express how talented and lovely she was. She honestly added to our day so much and we're obsessed with the photos.