Ines Di Santo - Hard Rock Hotel

The previous blog was not the first time I met designer Ines Di Santo, as, unbelievably, she attended 2 wedding shows here in San Diego last year. MBride, a boutique store in La Jolla, is the only San Diego store that features Di Santo couture dresses so I imagine the designer felt it good to visit even little San Diego while on her West Coast trip. Her gowns are hand-sown works of art that are very expensive and one of a kind - not mass produced. She is smart and gets the wealthy and political Mexican clientele here at her San Diego store.

I will never forget the first time I met Ms. Di Santo, whom is Italian by origin, but then lived in Buenos Aires for half her life before now settling in Canada. Not the tallest and thinnest girl, I was so surprised I got hired for her wedding Expo show held at the Hard Rock Hotel in January of 2009. But she liked my ambiguous ethnicity and I liked trying to speak to her in both Italian and Spanish.

I was going through one of the most challenging times of my life back then and she literally took my hand, asking my sign (Taurus), my age and some other things before bestowing to me in Italian before repeating in Spanish:

"My dear, I can see that you are trying so hard to deal with these things that pain you. But you haven't given it up yet to God."

She won me over instantly. It was something my wise Catholic mother would say.

And she was right. I always believe I meet people for reasons. She didn't converse with the other gals that day, and she certainly didn't need to talk to me - just another ordinary model of hers for the day. The fact that she did and said what she said was quite simply: a Gift. (And something I greatly needed to hear at the time.)

As if that wasn't enough she had me close the show with the showstopper Wedding Ballgown - - this dress was hands-down the loveliest, most amazing wedding dress and crafted couture gown I have and probably will ever model. What a lovely memory it all makes.:)

Click on picture below for the slideshow:

Ines Di Santo Gowns - Hard Rock Hotel

Designer Ines Di Santo

 

I came across more pictures from photographer Robert Gates of an earlier couture wedding gown blog. See blog from the Ivy Hotel last Fall here. And click pic below for more pictures, many featuring the designer herself who came out from Canada to join us.

Speaking of Brides..

On September 21, I was fortunate-enough to model for the prestigious, stunning wedding couture designer Ines Di Santo of Argentina.

I first worked with her last February, I believe - both times modeling for shows put on by boutique M Bride (thanks, Michele!!) in La Jolla who is the only San Diego location that sells her high-end gowns.

I found another wedding blog with wonderful pictures and a write-up that said it all and to save me time since I am so back-blogged I am going to post it.

Thank you and credits to "Bellz and Whistlez" by Janissa M. - -



What better way to start my day at the office by walking into the designated green room where swag bag assembly takes over the boardroom table, models are getting hair and makeup done, stylists scurrying, and accessories, footwear, and jewelry are amongst the piles of organized mess. Like a strong magnetic force, the corner of the room pulls me against my will, and then I find myself surrounded by racks of exquisite haute couture bridal gowns. This must be my heaven ;-). I wish I had my camera to photograph close ups of the meticulous detailing and impeccable craftsmanship. I just could not resist touching and admiring each and every single dress.


For the third year in a row, M Bride of La Jolla hosted their annual fashion show and bridal event at IVY Hotel. Featuring the latest collection by internationally renowned Ines Di Santo, her incredible designs were complemented by the décor done by Kathy Wright & Co. As one of the most anticipated events of the year, the show has gotten bigger and better over time. Animal printed linens, exotic centerpieces, gigantic floral arrangements accented by peacock feathers, all set on IVY’s rooftop during sunset created a fashion forward ambiance. With clear skies and the most killer views of Downtown San Diego, it was a perfect backdrop for what was promised to be an interesting show. With their graceful strides, the models made their way through the crowd as guests were taken by surprise by unexpected escorts. Literally speaking, “golden grooms” escorted the blushing brides. Painted in gold with tribal symbols, donning nothing more than a cheetah printed loincloth, and barefooted, these walking statues split everyone’s attention between their six-packs and the gorgeous gowns.I loved how the models were interactive. They struck poses for me, took photos with guests, answered questions and never allowed for a dull moment. Ms. Di Santo made a personal appearance and both her and her daughter, Veronica, joined this special cocktail reception. Unfortunately, I could not snap a photo of Ms. Di Santo as it’s hotel policy for us employees. But it was a spectacular event indeed, and I hope that you will join me next year!