Ophelia May Bridal Accessories is the culmination of years of hard work from owner Jennifer Louise – who, in an industry of frenzied beading and fractious bridezillas, has definitely found her niche.
Though the company only launched in August last year, Ophelia May has been a big hit with brides and is already stocked in several bridal boutiques across the country.
It also has a strong brand presence online through social networks like Facebook and Twitter, its own blog, and the official website which launched in February.
“I spent a lot of time researching the industry, as I wanted to offer brides something completely unique,” says Jennifer, who handcrafts each and every Ophelia May design.
“I am very passionate about every piece I make.”
Jennifer, 26, from Sale, first fell in love with bridalwear at Huddersfield University where, as part of a Textile Crafts degree, she did a project on the ill-fated wedding dress of Dickens’ Miss Havisham.
VINTAGE: Jenny draws inspiration from period dramas such as Downton Abbey
She was already specialising in embroidery and perfecting her skills in beading, embellishing and appliqué – all staples of bridalwear, which are now heavily featured in her company’s designs.
After university Jennifer went on to find work in the fashion industry as a designer, but she still yearned for a career in bridalwear.
“I missed the creativity of designing for the bridal market, so I jumped at the chance to set up my own bridal company,” she said.
“I feel my love of embroidery and beading lends itself perfectly to creating intricate bridal adornments.”
Jennifer was thrilled when Manchester’s vintage inspired Melanie James Boutique, on Chorlton Green, became the first store to stock her products.
“With Melanie’s individually hand-crafted collection, one-of-a-kind ethos, her support for local independent artists and handpicked products, it was the perfect place to showcase my Ophelia May designs,” she said.
Though Jennifer admits her biggest influences are always bygone eras, she produces spectacular modern pieces like the ‘Madeline’ headband, juxtaposed with classic designs like her ‘Adelaide’ haircomb, alongside the timeless simplicity of some of her floral designs.
“I find inspiration in many different places – film, nature, vintage magazines, and fashion both modern and historical,” Jennifer said.
But she cites the ‘roaring twenties’ as a particular fashion favourite.
MADE WITH LOVE: All of Ophelia May’s accessories are hand-crafted
As fashion began to reflect the decadence of the Art Deco period, intricate embellishments, lace and plenty of sparkle began to emerge.
“I’m a big fan of period dramas such as ‘The Great Gatsby’ and ‘Downton Abbey’,” she adds. “The costumes are stunning – and a great source of inspiration.
“Also my ideas often come from the materials I use, whether it’s a vintage brooch or a delicate fragment of lace.
“I play around with different compositions and layer up the materials until I get a design I am happy with.”
“All the designs are completely handmade in the studio,” Jennifer said.
“Each petal is hand-cut and shaped, all embellishments and embroidery are delicately done by hand and all elements are carefully hand-sewn together to produce a truly unique product of the highest quality.”
INCOMING: Jenny is launching a brand new collection later this year
Above all else Jennifer prides herself on her designs’ uniqueness, and it’s probably the reason Ophelia May is already so successful as a bridal brand.
Everyone knows that what every bride wants is to feel special on her big day, and few could cater to this bequest better.
Ophelia May also create specially tailored items for brides at their request, whether this involves incorporating family heirlooms or treasured jewellery, or a hand-embroidered message to ‘make the piece truly personal to the bride’.
“I believe this care for every piece is important to brides,” Jennifer said.
“Your wedding day is such a special occasion, and so many brides nowadays want something more unique and personal than what mass produced products have to offer.”
Jennifer also exhibits her designs at independent wedding fairs, stating its importance as it ‘gives brides the chance to see the pieces up close and try them on’.
The company will release a brand new collection later this year – which, Jennifer reveals, will also include a range of veils and garters.
Jennifer loves her work as much as her brides love their finished products, and in Ophelia May she believes she has truly found her calling.
