Occupation: Owner/Designer Lisa Van Hattem Custom Bridal Gowns
Who is your role model/mentor:
Anyone who is self employed and in a creative field. I think anyone who follows their passion in the arts is someone I want to know. It takes a lot of guts and a bit of craziness to put yourself out there in a creative way, hoping to get paid for it.
What do you like most about your job:
Being a part of someone’s memory at such a special time in their lives. They will always remember their wedding gown. It also makes me want to do the best job possible.
Daily ritual:
Make a cup of tea, turn on the news and check my email , plug in the iron. Oh, and of course say “Morning!” to my BFF on messenger. Then I spend the day in my work room or doing fittings, usually running between the two. Make dinner, go to the gym and then a little more work . Once I feel I have gotten enough done on my to-do list, I finally hit the hay with a book.
Is there an event you didn’t get to go to but wish you had:
I really regret not going to see U2 when they were in Toronto. Seeing them in concert is on my bucket list.
Favourite dress design and why:
My favorite designs are always the most recent ones I am working on. I always like what is new. I also think that with each dress my skills improve. Right now I am loving anything with hand made flowers as I haven’t done a lot of that before, but they are turning out really nice!
Memorable celebrity encounter:
Believe it or not, I was in Harrod’s London in the wedding gown department looking at the dresses when my friend came over to me and whispered in my ear that on one side of me was Posh Spice and the other side was David Beckham. It was when Victoria was pregnant and they were planning their wedding. My friend was strongly suggesting that I give them my card! Being a professional I didn’t think it was appropriate to give them my card in another persons bridal shop. Man, sometimes I am too nice (and a little shy!) And yes, he is that handsome in person.
Favourite hangout:
In my hot tub sipping a glass of wine with my special someone.
Which designer do you like to wear when you’re not designing?
I wish I was wearing more of BCBG/ Diane von Furstenberg, but usually it is something casual and more practical. I am enjoying the store Zara at the moment.
Favourite childhood memory:
I remember laying in bed at night listening to my mom sew in the next room. I found it amazing that you could create something out of nothing. The obsession started early.
If there was more time in the day you would:
In theory I would like to spend more time with friends and family but in reality I would likely spend it decorating my house or baking.
Favourite social network: Facebook.
Last website you visited: Not too exciting, The Weather Network. I’m an information Junkie.
Thanks Lisa. Wow. We're all drooling over your encounter with hottie David Beckham. To contact Lisa for a free custum bridal gown consultation at her store located in Waterdown Ontario, pls email her at info@lisavanhattem.com or you can find her on Twitter.
Posts
