Blog « R-Mine Bridal

R-Mine > Blog

BESPOKE ME

March 17th, 2012

Thousands of images swirl in a cloud of wishful imagination. A bride carefully selects each piece, craftily sewing together a wedding that will be completely custom to her. The date, the venue, the decoration, the colors, the menu, the photographer, the band, the dj, the coordinator, the cake, the seating chart… the list is endless, yet by the time the vows are pledged, all the decisions are done. A wedding is a reflection of the couples personality, and is a creation of their fantasies. No wedding will ever be the same, because the stories that are behind the event and the characters that play in them, are completely custom.

This is the idea, that Los Angeles favorite designer, Armine applies to all her clients. After putting in so much effort to create your day, why would a bride not help create their own dress? R-Mine bespoke, offers custom dresses, for the bride who want to be uniquely herself. Using the gorgeous R-Mine line, a bride can come into the studio and try on dresses with one of our stylist. At this point, the stylist will help define what style looks best on the bride, is she a mermaid, a trumpet, a princess in disguise, all will be uncovered. A magical moment occurs when a woman meets a dress and they fall in lust. After a brief period of swooning, the bride becomes aware of the flaws of the dress …this neckline would be better on me as a sweetheart….I love this dress but wish it had more sparkle…Satin is wonderful, but I think for an out door wedding, I would love to be in organza…

Alas, at any other bridal salon, the bride, would be in simple terms, screwed. The $4,500 she has budget and saved for her dress will now be $2,000 more because all she wants is a lower back and the size 6 she ordered is too big in the bust…the alteration fee is another $250, not to mention the hem height needs to be lengthened, because her 4inch dream sparkle wedding heels are just a smidge too high. Just after the bride cuts the a table of second cousins from the invite list, so she can afford all the hidden salon fees, she flips through facebook and sees that her fiance’s best friend’s sister, wore the exact same wedding dress to her wedding! And thus the tears come and come until the stress of it all make her lose a few pounds, and she has to get the dress taken in a bit.

The joy of buying most designer dresses can be tedious and overwhelming. The hidden cost and fees, that ordering many months ahead of time, and then not seeing it until its practically your wedding day is absurd. R-Mine bridal used to carry all the top lines, including their own, but soon became fed up with the ridiculous costs she was forced to apply, the lack of control, and the overflowing mass production of dresses, leaving a bride unable to have a unique dress. So owner and designer, Armine, said, “Enough. No more crying brides!” Armine in a passionate flurry of artistic inspiration, created her new business and line, R-Mine bespoke. Where a bride can help customize her own gown, where the dress is made to fit her, where the bride can be there through out the creation process, and most importantly, the only tears a bride cries, are tears of happiness and love.

Posted in Rmine | Comments (0)

Luxury Magazine Interview

March 15th, 2012

We were so lucky to be asked for an interview with Luxury Magazine. Armine Ohanessian, was so humbled when they asked her to partake in a spread featuring her and her work. Armine has come a long way since first entering the world of design, now with her own established bridal and evening gown line, at R-Mine bespoke, she couldn’t be happier. The interview, has since been translated from Russian, so take a read!

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

A unique perception of marvelous and exquisite

As a continuation of getting you acquainted with famous Armenians from all over the world, we would like to present you with a following exclusive interview with one of the leading wedding and evening gown designers of the US, Armine Sexenian Ohanessian. A delicate sense of color and taste help the designer of the R-Mine boutique create extraordinary dresses transforming the most important day of a bride’s life into a fairytale.

Tell us a bit about yourself and your creative evolution?

Ever since I was a child I was creating cloths for my dolls. I am grateful to my mom for introducing me to the world of wonders, art and music. I remember the first time I saw “The Swan Lake” at the Bolshoi theatre at the age of 8 – I was completely mesmerized by the costume design. Despite the objections of my family, I was accepted into the University of Arts in Yerevan. I continued my education in FIDM in US studying design and merchandising. After graduating I started working as an assistant designer in a fashion boutique in Beverly Hills. I finally realized my revered dream of opening my own fashion boutique after giving birth to two lovely daughters. R-Mine Bridal first opened in Glendale, California. Around that time I developed solid relationships with the most renown wedding gown designers of US and Europe. I was able to establish myself as a competitive name in the industry. At the moment I have a boutique store that produces custom made gowns in Studio City, California. I promoted myself as a leading designer of personal collections. My wedding and evening gown creations have been worn by a vast number of celebrities including many on the red carpets.

Can you name a few celebrities that you have dressed and styled in the past and the ones you plan on working with in the future?

We have worked with celebrities such as Kendra Wilkinson, Shemiqua Gibbs, America Olivio, Katherine McPhee and many more. Due to confidentiality we can’t disclose our future clients.

It’s a known fact that you work with American Armenians. Is it possible to cooperate with brides from Armenia?

If the opportunity presents itself, why not? I have an oversees agent that facilitates contracts with other countries, including Armenia.

What is your main focus while designing a dress for each bride?

I take their individuality, character and the place of the ceremony. I also take into account how the bride and groom look together to make a cohesive and complementing creation.

Do you use any elements of cultural Armenian attire in your creations?

My main inspirations come from art, architecture, music, old movies of different cultures and nationalities including Armenian.

Is your nationality helping you in anyway or in the contrary?

It doesn’t help me, nor does it hurt me. What gives me is a sense of pride and a third dimension to absorb other cultures.

Do your future plans include opening a boutique in Yerevan?

I definitely have a interest in investing in the economic development of Armenia. We have conducted a market research. Possibly in the nearest future we may launch something there, but no certain plans at the moment.

Do you wear your own creations or you prefer other designers?

The arduous work involved in creating my own collections and working with clients leave no time for making cloths for myself.

Do your daughters intend to continue your path?

Both of my daughters are interested in art. My eldest studied design and business at FIDM, and my youngest currently is studying history of art at UCLA. Although, my eldest has a huge role in the organization of my business, each one of them has their own career path.

What’s your idea of luxury?

I see luxury in art, photography, fashion and many other things. It’s a unique way of expressing creative thoughts.

Lastly, what would you like to wish to “Luxury” magazine?

I wish your magazine the outmost success and world wide recognition.

Posted in Rmine | Comments (0)

Alisan Porter ties the knot!

March 13th, 2012

A few months ago, a sweet girl came into our studio looking for a gown for her wedding. She worked with Armine from R-Mine Bespoke, and created a custom bridal gown that reflected her beauty and charismatic personality. We love working with all our clients, and each one is such a different experience, we truly do treasure them all, but working with Alisan Porter was a bit more unique. We got to help create a dress for one of America’s favorite child stars, best known for her work in Curly Sue. Alisan wore a one-of-a-kind fitted all lace gown custom designed by R-mine Bespoke with a soft beaded belt, also designed by R-mine Bespoke was her adorable flower girl dress. Be sure to read all the press coverage about this beautiful wedding and stay tuned for more images! Congratulations Alisan and Brian!! Wishing you two a lifelong of happiness together!

Check out the articles written about our little star!

Posted in Rmine | Comments (0)

Working with Jen O’Sullivan

March 8th, 2012

We recently had an event at the Unici Casa in Culver City, hosted by California Wedding Day Magazine, launching Platinum Party Rentals, produced by Sarah Z. events. The evening was a marvelous cascade of glamour and beauty. Top vendors presenting their talents to others in the industry, leaves little flaws and no wanting to guests. The food, catered by Huntington Caterting was decadent and tasteful, both in flavor and appearance. The music presented from 11H Entertainment allowed a free flow of ease in movement, as guest partied and chatted. The floral arrangement created by Luna Gardens complimented the couture dresses, Los Angeles favorite designer, Armine created.

But as most events, there are the unsung heroes, that are still working while everyone else enjoys themselves. While the other vendors were getting endless praise for their contribution, some were still hard at work, creating a collection of memories through film. Jen O’Sullivan, a magnificent photographer, clicked away, capturing the memories, that would have otherwise been forgotten in the morning. With a glass a wine or martini in hand, guests smiles and laughter easily slip away, unless photographed, forgotten. Jen not only grabs those moments, but translates them into whispers of our history.

We were lucky enough to have Jen and her team photograph our models before and during the show. Her professional and creative demeanor blazes through her finished work. Our girls, the dresses, and the jewelry they wore, by Margaret Rowe, look astounding.

Posted in Rmine | Comments (0)

The Wedding Salon

March 6th, 2012

The Wedding Salon invited Los Angeles favorite designer, Armine from R-Mine bespoke, and her gaggle of girls to a night of luxury at the SLS Hotel on Monday, March 19th from 4 until 8pm. Armine was specially asked by the event coordinators to showcase her gowns. Her couture pieces have been featured on a plethora of wedding magazines, and been displayed at several events and runway shows. But now Armine, is giving the person who counts the most, the bride, the opportunity to see these one of a kind gowns in person. To physically look at one of the gowns instead of viewing just from a photo, is a completely different experience. The way the dress catches light, the way the fabric drapes over the body, the touch of the silks and the movement of each piece is often overlooked when just viewed in the glossy pages of your favorite wedding magazine. Armine will also be speaking about her exclusive process in dressing a bride. From design to the final zip, an R-Mine gown and experience will never be forgotten. Armine designs and carries a menagerie of excellence, from bridal to evening wear, everyone can find their “yes” dress.

The Wedding Salon will be providing an array of services to brides who come to the event on Monday. This night of luxury is designed to glimmer like a million dollar wedding . From complimentary beauty makeovers by Youngblood Cosmetics , to cake tasting by Hansen’s Cake’s all the guests will feel pampered and pleasant, especially sipping on cocktails and wine by Francis Ford Coppola. Any event isn’t as sweet without a few free giveaways, and the Wedding Salon won’t be lacking, each guest will receive fabulous gift bags featuring Essie, Fekkai and more. A few lucky brides will also receive complimentary honeymoons!

For more information about the event don’t hesitate to send us an email at info@rminebridal.com !

We look forward to see you there!

Posted in Rmine | Comments (0)

The Reveal…before it was revealed

March 4th, 2012

Last Thursday night was the official launch party of Platinum Party Rentals at the beautiful Unici Casa in Culvery City, hosted by California Wedding Day Magazine, and all produced by Sarah Z events. The event also showcased R-MINE bespoke’s new evening dresses. Armine’s collection featured stunning colors, painted dresses, black lace, and feathers. The event was a success, the food by Huntington catering was wonderful, the flowers by Luna Gardens bloomed sunshine into the rooms, and everyone was joyously caffeinated, thanks to Bon Cafetit.

But to us, the event started much earlier than when the first guest arrived. R-Mine’s team arrived bright and early, at the crack of noon, to prepare for the nights event. The designer, Armine, arrived with eight dresses meticulously packed into her car, a jigsaw puzzle of tulle and taffeta. She was greeted by a team of make up artists, led by the magnificent, Sona Gasparian and hair dressers, from Hair by Karen B. The team of beauty professionals worked as a seamless pack transforming naturally beautiful girls to eight, extra-ordinary avant-garde models, with turquoise lips and beehive hair.

Now it was Armine’s turn, she unleashed her gowns from their plastic protection and draped the models in gorgeous gowns made of silks and sequins. She stood in stilettos and still had to rock to her tip toes, to zip some of the towering girls securely in. She decorated the flawless girls, in couture jewelry by Margaret Rowe. By the time the last model was finished getting reading and having their photos taken by Jen O’Sullivan guests were pulling up to the valet, M&S Parking, the bands provided by 11H Entertainment had finished tuning and now started a low hum of music. As quick and as beautiful as hummingbirds, the girls were scattered and placed on top of blocks and then staggered on stairs. Just as the last girl was placed, the party began, guest streamed down the halls, admiring all that had been provided, and with such a wonderful set vendors gathered together, the evening couldn’t have been more elegantly dazzling.

Posted in Rmine | Comments (0)

Color Me Happy

February 26th, 2012

As the winter ends, nature becomes exuberant with color. From the greens on the ground and the blues in the sky, to the pops of red and subtle purples that paint neighbors gardens, colors are literally blooming everywhere. Los Angeles favorite designer, Armine, hasn’t been blind to these lavish hues of jubilant glee. She has drawn inspiration from their power and beauty and has begun creating a color collection. The new color evening gown collection is a fun twist full of color and textures. Painted silks, lace bodices, and feather trims are just a few of the fun and unique details currently being created in Armine’s studio.

If you want to get a sneak peak at a few of her new dresses, a couple of the gowns will be debuted at the California Wedding Day Magazine party, The Reveal, on March 1st at the Unici Casa in Culver City. Check out our events link at rminebridal.com to get more information.

To give you a taste of what is to come, the dress below, is an unfinished glimpse of a new dress from Los Angeles favorite wedding and evening gown designer, Armine.

Posted in Rmine | Comments (0)

Presidents Day Sale

February 18th, 2012

Los Angeles based bespoke wedding dress designer, Armine, is having a sale on Presidents day weekend! All dresses will be 10% off and every bride that makes a purchase, will receive a free small veil! Hope everyone has a wonderful long weekend, and can’t wait to see you all at our Presidents Day Weekend Sale!

Posted in Rmine | Comments (0)

Don’t forget to vote!

February 17th, 2012

The polls are still open to dress the lucky bride-to-be Felicity, in your favorite Los Angeles designer, Armine, wedding dress ! Looks like the Deep V design is currently in the lead with over 7,400 votes! Make sure you get your opinion in, and help us decide what dress to create for Felicity! You can vote at www.californiaweddingday.com/bridal-attire/box/3 and then make sure to check out our other designs and dresses, and like our Facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/rminebridal!

Posted in Rmine | Comments (0)

Your Wedding Day Magazine Contest Winner

February 16th, 2012

The lucky bride to be, Felicity, is the winner of Your Wedding Day’s $100,000 dream wedding contest. Her special day, is going to be complete with a custom designed dress from Armine.

Felicity first met with Armine, at R-Mine Bridal, and tried on several dresses from Armine’s current line, to see which style best fit her personality and figure. Felicity looked amazing in all the gowns, so it was a bit hard, not to fall in love with each one. After many sighs of beauty from the bride to be, her sister, and soon to be mother-in-law, Armine had a wonderful grasp on the style of gown that would be perfect for Felicity on her big day!

The design ideas were quickly flowing out of Armine, as she secluded herself in the drawing room, sketching one beautiful dress after another. Tediously, she was able to narrow the designs down to three, equally beautiful gowns. But now the choice is up to the readers to pick Felicity’s dream wedding dress.

Please vote for your favorite design www.californiaweddingday.com/bridal-attire/box/3 and then “like” our Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/rminebridal to see more of our one of a kind dresses!

Check back with us soon, to see what dress was picked, and to see how are dresses come to life, from a sketch to a gown.