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BRIDEOFTHEWEEK: Joanne Koutsoulias

  • ballgown
  • Floral Motives
  • Karla
  • Mira Zwillinger Bride
  • Rich
  • V-Neck
Romantic Greek Wedding
Introducing Our #MZBride: Joanne’s wedding in Greece was a breathtaking fusion of love and coastal beauty. Against a backdrop of turquoise seas and golden sunsets, every moment shimmered with joy and elegance.

Her choice of the Mira Zwillinger Billie gown, complete with matching accessories, brought couture artistry to her celebration—an ethereal look that reflected both strength and softness in perfect harmony.

Experience the full story of Joanne’s luxurious celebration on our blog.
Bride Katya Ruiz in couture gown by vintage car, waterfront.
How did you know your dress was 'the one'? 

I always knew I wanted to wear Mira for my wedding. I got engaged in July 2024 in Provence, and had an upcoming trip to Greece in August. I wasn’t planning on wedding dress shopping before my trip as the timing was quite short. I then saw that you had a trunk show at Mark Ingram and immediately called them. I was lucky and able to get an appointment the Saturday right before I left for my Greece vacation.

It was the first dress I tried on and fell in love. I only went to the wedding appointment with my mother, grandmother and my sister. I tried multiple other dresses from the trunk show as well, but chose Billie and said yes to the dress that day!
Bride in floral gown walking seaside by white house.
 
What was most important to you when choosing your wedding gown and why?

I wanted to feel like a bride, but also like myself and I wanted the dress to reflect the aesthetic of the wedding and the venue. I wanted the dress to feel in place with the scenery and my surroundings. I wanted it to feel very Greek and be light and airy so I could dance all night.
Bride and groom in couture exit chapel as confetti falls.
How did you feel when you tried on your Mira Zwillinger gown for the first time — after it was
custom -made to your exact measurements?
I felt like a princess! It was a roller coaster of emotions. I couldn’t believe that the day was almost here. 
Katya Ruiz in strapless lace gown holding lilies outdoors.


What’s one thing you learned during the process of finding your gown that you’d love future brides to know?

My first wedding dress appointment was my only wedding dress appointment so I didn’t have an extended experience of going back-and-forth to multiple bridal salons or even trying on multiple designers. However, always try on the gowns and that the stylist you’re working with recommend or anything that the wonderful ladies that you bring with you suggest. I went in for Sally specifically, but my gown was the Billie and a very different look! I loved Sally too-but you know when the dress is the one!

Bride Katya Ruiz arrives at seaside chapel celebration.
Katya Ruiz in couture gown by vintage blue car outside.


What are 3 tips you’d give to any bride planning her big day?

3 tips I’d give are:

  1. Don’t overthink your decisions. You know what you like and being decisive is easier than contemplating for a longer time. If you see something you like whether it’s a vendor or a small detail, you’d like to include, bite the bullet and do it. Go with your gut.
  2. Don’t let others’ opinions, or suggestions persuade you to change your original vision oridea. It’s your wedding at the end of the day and it should be exactly how you alwayspictured it.
  3. Have fun! I know how easy it is to stress over absolutely everything, especially when you have a type A personality like myself but try to enjoy and have fun during the process!
Katya Ruiz kisses under floral arch in couture gown.
White chapel with red roof, Greek flag, seaside.
Bride, groom, vintage blue car by seaside, couture elegance.
Bride in couture gown with groom, outdoors by water.

If you had matching accessories (like a veil or topper), how did they enhance your bridal look and bring your vision to life?

I knew I wanted a very long veil, and I felt like it completed the look. I also had the shawl for the church which I was absolutely obsessed with. My mom absolutely wanted me to have it.

Bride in Mira Zwillinger gown walks past potted trees.
Katya Ruiz weds in couture gown, holding groom’s hand.


Looking back, is there one mistake you made during the planning process — and what would you recommend future brides to avoid?

I don’t think there are any mistakes that I made, but there are always things that will not go as planned on the actual wedding day. There are a few small details from my wedding that weren’t exactly how I had wanted them, but no one else knows about yourself. I will say -if you’re hiring a planner be very specific and help them understand exactly what you want!

Bride and groom stroll by chapel, cliffs, Greek flag.

Describe how you felt in your Mira Zwillinger gown — in just 3 words.

Beautiful, ethereal and magical!

Bride Katya Ruiz and groom smile under archway, applauded.

This breathtaking wedding gown features a flattering deep sweetheart corset and a skirt adorned with banded layers of lace, creating a captivating striped effect each band is crafted with intricate lace, adding depth and dimension while maintaining an air of lightness and elegance.

The layered design flows effortlessly, giving the gown a dynamic yet timeless look, perfect for the modern bride who values artistry and sophistication. Handcrafted in our atelier, this gown combines couture craftsmanship with a unique aesthetic that ensures you’ll make an unforgettable impression.

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!

Further reading