Founded in 2015, Ruth Milliam Bridal Couture is a design based studio based in Hampshire, with a focus on hand finished detail and craftsmanship. Creating stunning bridal accessories and wedding gowns - Ruth's work is inspirational and stunning in every way. We caught up with Ruth to ask her a few questions about life as a designer...
1. Introduce yourself!
My background is not actually in Bridal, but rather in Fashion.  After graduation from UCCA Rochester with a BA in Fashion Design, I started working within the Fashion Industry working on Couture Collections and Shows in London, Paris, Milan & Tokyo Fashion Weeks. I have always loved the romance of bridal working with muted tones, layered lace and beading. I decided to start the brand once my twins turned 2 - being a single mother I wanted to make a new future for us.
2. Did you always want to be a designer or was there a defining point in your career where you took this path?
From a child I have always designed, sketching in my bedroom and sewing with my Nan. I thank my Nan for my skills as she worked for Couturier Norman Hartnel before getting married.
3. What was the inspiration behind your collection? How long did it take for you to create it?
For me the inspiration comes from playing with fabrics, laces, beading and of course - feathers. I create everything on the mannequin and never draw, it is the most creative way of designing for me. I was inspired by muted tones this season. Silvers blushes and soft whites. The collection takes months to create with intricate hand sewn beading,  all hand sewn in our studio in Hampshire.
4. What is an average working day for you?
My average working day is very full on! I get up around 6am and check my emails before boys wake. Then it's time to get the boys ready for nursery and get back to the studio for 9am where me and the girls start making the pieces that are scheduled for that day. After a nice homemade lunch at 1pm, I catch up on some emails and continue work in the studio. 5-8pm is spent with my boys after I pick them up from nursery. Then, it's back to some sewing and beading which I like to do at night as it's nice and relaxing.Â
5. How do you balance your personal life with such a busy work life?
Balancing personal and work life is the hardest thing. I spend most Fridays with my boys and every other weekend. Not sure I have the balance right - but who does?
6. What do you love most about being a designer?
I love creating dream dresses for brides. You can't beat that feeling when someone cries tears of joy after trying on one of my creations. I LOVE being creative every day.
7. If you could change one thing about your career, what would it be?
I would change nothing. I love being a designer!