In May 1988 Bernice Fashions became my business. A business that I take pride in. I can honestly say, I truly cherish every Bride and Bridal Party who has walked through the door of our Geelong premises.

“Bernice” was my Grandma who lived next door to us as we were growing up. As children we would pop next door through the gate in the yard.

Bernice was a wonderful cook, though what I really enjoyed was watching her sew and chat.

If she wasn’t in her sewing room, my grandmother would be sitting at the kitchen table hand sewing in the natural light as the sun came through the window. I especially loved watching her do delicate rouleau lace work connected together by thread that gives the look of lace.

I would even watch my mother sew and play in her button box and look at the fabrics she stored. I love the touch of fabric and the texture. Even today walking into a store with divine fabric I am like child in a candy shop.

By the time I started my business, unfortunately Grandma had passed away. But, my Grandpa was really chuffed that I had taken on his wife’s name for my business.

Starting out, I was tailoring clothing for individual requirements and later started focussing on made to measure wedding and special occasion dresses.

Over the years I have seen many changes and love working with brides and their entourage.

Bernice Fashions now work with designers and stock a varied collection of gowns to suit all types of weddings. From Boho, classic traditional, garden, beach, small chapel to large church. If you’re looking for a particular look you may find what you’re looking for at Bernice Fashions.

These days we also do alterations and offer a range of ready-made gowns for special occasions. The work we do is still intricate, I still get to play with pretty fabrics and meet the loveliest brides.

Yvonne Bowdler