Blush Bridal Spotlight: Ali Smith

Once again, we have the privilege of introducing you to another, beautiful bride and her success story from finding her dream gown with us to her PERFECT wedding day! We love our Blush Bridal Spotlights because they give you, bride-to-be, a chance to connect to real-life brides! Here, we talk with Ali on her journey from finding the perfect dress to the bride's favorite moments from her wedding day!

1. As a bride, you have several choices in the area to find your wedding gown. What brought you to Blush Bridal?

I went to a larger store and found the choices to be so overwhelming. I felt like I was sifting endlessly through gowns and couldn't find a style I wanted or anything in my price range. I also felt very "on display." Even though I had a private appointment, the store was very busy.

A friend recommended that I try Blush Bridal, so I set up an appointment. A stylist called me before my appointment and we discussed everything I was looking for, including price. When I arrived at the salon she had pulled about 10 dresses for me already. All of them were in my size and my price range. This was so incredibly helpful. I didn't need to spend time rooting through inventory. The stylist got exactly what I was looking for and I honestly would have been happy with two or three of the dresses she chose for me. The store was quiet, private and posh. I walked away 100 percent satisfied with my choice -- a dress I bought off the rack for about $300!

2. In a few words, can you tell us how you and your husband met?

At an exercise class. We became friends first and started to go on hikes together. We found we could talk for hours and had a lot in common.

3. How did you know which dress was the one for you?

As this was a second wedding for both of us, we didn't want anything "over the top" if that makes sense. I wanted something very simple, yet classic. I knew I wanted an "off the shoulder" look and I knew it would be a bonus if there was some subtle "bling." When I went into the dressing room, my dress caught my eye immediately. It was a very simple yet elegant cut.. And the rhinestones around the straps and waist were just enough to make it sparkle. 4.What was your favorite part of the wedding?

I have a son, 7, and daughter, 5, and they were really excited to be part of the day. From my son walking me down the aisle with my father.. To my daughter serving as the proud and composed flower girl.. I just really enjoyed watching their joy. I have such great memories of them crowding around the cake/cupcake table and tearing up the dance floor with their friends. My son is quite the break-dancer.

5.Where was your wedding held?

We were married at my church in Harrisburg and then had a reception for about 80 of our closest friends and family in the private event space at the Vineyard and Brewery at Hershey. The second floor deck there makes this space so incredibly gorgeous, comfortable and inviting. The view is spectacular and the sounds of live music from the patio below were an added bonus! We were able to take photos at their pond and in and amongst the vines!

6. What advice would you give brides as they are preparing for their wedding? Don't sweat the small stuff! Honestly, in the moment, some of the details you agonize over will not matter at all. You may not even notice them! Keep it simple. Your guests just want to see you happy! Also.. Don't focus too much on the reception and overlook the ceremony! That is, after all, the most important part!

7. What words of wisdom would you pass onto brides for their wedding day?

Find something that you are COMFORTABLE wearing - especially your shoes! Get lots of sleep the night before (if possible!) and make sure you eat before the ceremony. Take care of yourself. If something is stressing you out, delegate the responsibility. Your friends and family will be very eager to do anything for you -- let them! And make sure you take a moment during the reception to go around the room and appreciate all of the effort you put into the day. Eat your plate of food. Get a big piece of wedding cake. Use the selfie station. And have fun!!!