Brides today are increasingly sensitive to the tastes, feelings and finances of their attendants.

I've always tried to push myself technically and to push myself visually. That's been part of the journey.

People get very trapped where they are. When they hear 'fashion' they get intimidated, particularly at the upper end because it's so elitist.

When you have a passion for something then you tend not only to be better at it, but you work harder at it too.

I love the focus and bravery of European designers, but I love the nonchalance and throwaway aspect of America that has made Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein two of the greatest icons. I try to bridge those two worlds in my work. The clothes may be couture on the runway but there's an attitude that's very street and that comes from America.

Just because you're from a city ten miles outside of St. Paul. It doesn't mean you don't read magazines, or the incredible Internet, and what's going on in the world. I never, ever take a client, or women, for granted.

I was a total fashion insider who became an outsider when I did bridal.