Border Cafe takes a look back at some of our favourite stories published during 2018.
If you missed it, this profile story on designer Jillian Franklin is a wonderful example of talented creatives producing amazing work in our backyard.
The love of sewing as a school girl has led to an enduring career as an internationally renowned designer for Albury’s Jillian Franklin.
Jillian has been “designing and fiddling with fabrics” all her life. Her creations have graced the covers of national magazines and she now celebrates more than 35 years in the industry.
While most designers are based in the capital cities, brides from across the region, as well as Melbourne and beyond are happy to visit her Albury studio to seek Jillian’s skills for a custom designed gown.
“Brides often want their own specially designed gown,” Jillian said.
“A bride will come to me and we’ll sit and we’ll chat about what they might have in mind, and while they’re talking I’ll sketch and when we’re finished they’ll look at what I’ve sketched and say ‘oh yes, that’s it!’
“I just love it, and playing with fabrics more than anything. I’ll start playing and draping it on a dress and that’s how things come up.”
While Jillian has been designing for many years, demand for her work intensified a few years ago when she was invited to participate in a Sydney bridal expo.
I reconnected with a wonderful lady who is a senior stylist for Brideminded to go to Sydney to showcase in their big Sydney bridal expo.
“Things then came out of that, including the offer to feature in a magazine, which I ended up being front cover of – little old me, down here sewing and they rang and said ‘would you like to?’
“To end up being on the front cover, it was pretty amazing.”
Regardless of the variety of considerations when planning a wedding, Jillian regards the design of ‘the dress’ the ultimate honour.
“I get goose bumps when brides come in,” Jillian said.
“To share the design and making of a dress with them is so special.
“It’s such an honour, because for brides, aside from the husband of course, it’s all about the dress!”
For more information about Jillian Franklin Couture visit: https://www.jillianfranklindesigns.com.au/
