We are thrilled to introduce our latest instalment in our Kiki Women Series, bespoke bridal designer Emma Victoria Payne. We visited Emma’s boutique to talk all things weddings!
Emma Victoria Payne opened her boutique in April 2010 on Beauchamp Place in the heart of Knightsbridge. Emma prides herself on offering an exceptional personal service, seeing each bride from their initial meeting to their wedding day. Emma designs exquisite gowns with an elegant and timeless quality, using the richest fabrics and finishes. She says she is incredibly fortunate to design her gowns for brides all over the world.
Can you tell us a little more about yourself and what inspired you to set up your business?
From a very early age, I was incredibly creative and I loved drawing and making things. My great grandfather was a womenswear designer based in Nottingham and produced day dresses as well as wedding dresses. My inspiration came from the stories my grandfather used to tell me about the family business which left a strong impression and led me to pursue a career in fashion. At the age of 7 I used to talk about continuing the business and from that moment on I was determined to have my own dress company. My parents bought me my first sewing machine for Christmas at the age of 8 and I have never looked back. I studied Fashion at Central St Martins before launching my brand in 2010.
What have you found the biggest challenges to be?
It has always been my ambition to have a boutique that reflects our brand and style. After a nine month search I found the perfect premises at 6 Park Walk, I am so happy to be based on one of my favourite streets in Chelsea.
What has been your greatest achievement?
Providing such a unique bespoke and personal service enabling our clients to create a dress of their dreams for the most important day of their lives.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I was incredibly hard working and determined to succeed, I think its so important to get as much experience as possible to equip yourself with necessary skills for this fast paced industry. Each year, I provide an internship for top textiles students from my secondary school so they can gain an insight into the day to day running of my company.
What are your greatest sources of inspiration?
Audrey Hepburn, she was so effortlessly chic!
What best describes your style?
Our gowns are perfect for the modern bride combining contemporary elegance with the highest quality silks. We love to create bespoke interchangeable layers so the bride can change her look from day to evening.
How is the wedding industry recovering after the impact of the pandemic?
It has been such an incredibly challenging time for the wedding industry. We have had to adapt the way we work completing client gowns virtually with all measurements and fittings via zoom. Since reopening we have experienced a massive surge of enquiries and we have been fully booked every hour of the day. It is so wonderful to be back!
What is your favourite thing about being such an integral part of the wedding industry?
There is nothing quite like creating the ultimate EVP dress which is one of a kind. A bespoke EVP gown reflects the clients unique personality and style and we offer a very special experience.
Do you have a favourite piece of Kiki jewellery?
There are so many stunning pieces to choose from but my favourite piece has to be the Signatures Blue Topaz Earrings with a Diamond Stud in White Gold. I think they really are the ultimate something blue!
What’s next for you and the brand?
We have recently launched a new platform – evpbrides.com – featuring a curated selection of our favourite suppliers in the wedding industry. We are so excited to collaborate with the best brands which offer the most personal service for our clients.
