Source: MemoirsofaPrincess
As a young artist, I would sketch my dress designs on my Barbie-like drawing of myself (as my Art teacher often called my human figure drawings) and spend hours coming up with the perfect dress. Ever since I could remember, I have always imagined my perfect white Cinderella gown walking down the aisle to my Prince Charming. Yes, I’m a sucker for fairy tales. LOL! There is no such thing as a perfect fairy-tale but there is definitely something called a PERFECT BRIDAL GOWN. With famous labels like Ida Torez and Daria Karlozi, Strat Bridal, a Ugandan based Bridal boutique, has some of the most beautiful bridal gown collections I have ever seen. I’m so happy to have the CEO, Tracy, on my Q&A: Bridal Edition to talk about all things bridal.
 

Tell me a bit of your background story.

TKO: My name is Tracy Kakuru Otatiina, I am a wife and mother of 2 boys. I am also a marketing and branding professional with over 7 years’ experience in working with some of the world’s biggest brands, I hold a Master’s Degree in Marketing, communications and Brand Strategy from the International University of Monaco and I am the founder of Strat Bridal, an upscale bridal boutique located in Kampala, Uganda.
 

What was it that made you decide to create Strat Bridal Kampala?

TKO: During my wedding preparations in 2016, just like any other bride, I wanted an experience of a lifetime to share with my family and friends while selecting my dream gown. I happened to have had a great experience in Toronto, Canada but I knew so many other brides shared the same need and I decided to create experiences for brides, that is how Strat Bridal was formed in 2018.

Do you have a favourite from the collection?

TKO: Our collection is pretty vast, we are constantly looking to partner with more and more International and African designers but my favorite at the moment is the ‘Seduction’ collection by Ida Torez.
 

What does the 2020/2021 bride look like to you?

TKO: 2020/2021 bride is open minded; she is present in the moment and is willing to make the most of this experience in her life. She is authentic and ready to explore different possibilities rather than following society standards.
 

What are the latest wedding trends?

TKO: From the different 2020 collections, we are seeing a lot of unique colors trends like champagne, coffee, blush and greys. In addition, two in one pieces are highly demanded whether it is a detachable skirt or sleeves, brides now have the option to get a versatile look on a budget.

Are there designers – past and present – that inspires you?

TKO: I absolutely love Michael Cinco, a Filipino fashion designer based in Dubai. I am always amazed by his designs, the richness of the fabric and the luxury attached to his brand experience.

Who would be your dream celebrity client?

TKO: I am honestly open and happy to work with any bride, my fulfilment comes from sharing moments with brides, from selecting the gown to seeing them on their wedding day and knowing Strat Bridal helped them achieve something they will remember for a lifetime.

What’s the ultimate bridal fashion faux pas?

TKO: Oh wow, there are so many to consider. I would say, be mindful about the venue of your event when choosing your gown, always be comfortable whether it’s your heels or a bra. Be true to yourself, do not focus so much on trends. Do not try and reinvent yourself unexpectedly like trying and dye your hair for the first time at your wedding.

What advice do you have for future brides?

TKO: It’s a tradition for brides to frame their wedding pictures and hang it in their homes for a lifetime, so choose your gown wisely. Make sure you absolutely love it because you will always have the memory of what you looked like and how felt.