English Garden
Presenting Our #MZBride Spotlight: Alyssa Francis Jaffer made her destination wedding unforgettable in a custom Mira Zwillinger Nelly gown — a luxurious blend of structure, softness, and couture detailing. Set among Jamaica’s vivid hues and lush landscapes, her look featured floral embroidery, a statement-making slit, and a matching veil that added a poetic finishing touch.
Dreaming of a one-of-a-kind wedding gown for your big day? Dive into Alyssa’s story and explore the world of Mira couture!
How did you know your dress was 'the one’?
My mom came to visit me in NYC, and we decided to spend the day dress shopping together. A dear
friend recommended Mark Ingram, so we made an appointment there. As soon as I slipped into the
Nelly dress, I just knew. The fit was flawless, and it was the most flattering dress I had ever tried on.
The fabric was luxurious, and the quality was unmatched.
It was more than just a dress — it was the one that made me feel like the best version of myself. It had all the elegance I was looking for, and I couldn’t imagine walking down the aisle in anything else!
In what way did the matching accessories bring your bridal vision to life alongside your gown?
The matching veil was the perfect finishing touch to my bridal look. It was the perfect complement to
my gown — elegant, delicate, and just enough to add that extra touch of glamour. The way the veil
flowed alongside my gown made me feel like I was in a dream. It tied everything together seamlessly
How did you start planning your wedding? What were the first steps?
My husband and I have always shared a deep love for Jamaica. I grew up going there on family trips,
and over the years, we’ve returned together as a couple, even with his family. We knew that Jamaica
held a special place in our hearts, so when we started discussing our wedding, it was almost a given
that we would tie the knot on this beautiful island. We had actually talked about getting married in
Jamaica long before we were even engaged — its vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and welcoming
people made it the perfect place to celebrate our love.
Once we were engaged, we made a trip to Jamaica to visit Half Moon, a luxurious hotel in Montego
Bay. The moment we stepped onto the resort, we both knew it was the perfect venue for us. The
ambiance, the breathtaking views, and the undeniable charm of the place sealed the deal. From there,
we hired a local wedding planner who was absolutely amazing and helped us navigate through a year of detailed planning
What did you feel when you tried on your custom gown for the first time?
Trying on my custom gown for the first time was an incredibly emotional moment. The second I
stepped into it, I felt like I was truly becoming the bride I had always dreamed of being. I was filled
with an overwhelming sense of confidence and joy.
3 tips that you would give to all our future brides
1. Trust your instincts: When it comes to wedding planning and your dress, trust your gut. If something
feels right, go for it. You’ll have a clearer vision of your perfect day when you follow your heart.
2. Don’t forget the details: As an interior designer, I can tell you that the little details are what elevate your wedding. From the flowers to the table settings, every element adds to the overall atmosphere and vibe of the day. Take the time to think about the mood you want to create!
3. Take a moment for yourself: Wedding planning can be intense, so it’s essential to carve out a moment just for you. Whether it’s taking a walk, having a quiet cup of tea, or just breathing, a moment
of peace will help you stay grounded throughout the process.
What was your wedding theme?
I would describe our wedding as a colorful celebration of Jamaica’s vibrant culture, scenery, and
people. The palette was rich with local tropical hues — vibrant reds, oranges, and lush greens — all
inspired by the island’s natural beauty. We included local flowers, but also brought in elements like
fresh tropical fruits that added a touch of the island’s authentic flavor. If I had to name our wedding
theme, I’d call it “Tropical Reverie” a perfect mix of the island’s vibrant essence and refined elegance.
Unveil a gown that exudes modern sophistication and timeless romance, perfect for the bride who desires a bold yet flowy and elegant statement.
Crisp, white lace florals bloom across the light nude bodice, creating a stunning contrast that enhances the gown’s intricate details. These delicate appliqués cascade gently into the full tulle A-line skirt, striking the perfect balance between structure and softness.
Nelly gown marks a daring introduction to our collection with its elegant slit, adding a touch of sensuality to the flowing design. The deep V-notch in the bodice frames the bride’s bust beautifully, while the razor-low back adds an undeniably flattering and alluring touch.
Designed to celebrate confidence, femininity, and grace, Nelly is an unforgettable choice for your most magical day.
Do you want to elevate your bridal look with unique matching accessories?
Even if you’re getting married very soon, we’ll create the perfect matching accessory to elevate your bridal look to new heights!
