TLC’s hit TV show “Say Yes to the Dress” has a spinoff show and you might know that we were a part of it! This special 10-episode series gave 52 couples a once-in-a-lifetime experience to get married on TV in NYC. “Say Yes to the Dress America” involved bridal designer Hayley Paige, who helped the brides chose their gowns. In part two of our series of articles about the show, Paige sat down with us to talk about her involvement in the show.
Designer Turned Bridesmaid
“One of the best things about being a part of ‘Say Yes to the Dress America’ is that I get to play myself and fulfill the role of America’s Bridesmaid,” Paige tells us. “It is wonderful to not only serve these women as a creative designer but also as an advocate for their special moment.” As for whether the brides chose her designs for their walk down the aisle, she couldn’t provide any spoiler alerts, “you’ll have to watch the finale for the final number! Of all things, the most important part of my role is being a resource for each of these brides in finding the dress of their dreams … regardless if it’s a Hayley Paige gown or not!”
52 Couples, 52 Stories to Tell
“Each bride brought something authentic and unique to the table. It’s a remarkable thing to be able to acknowledge and own your story…and it’s even more remarkable to have people reciprocate with compassion and encouragement. When you have 52 brides getting married together and all bringing something different, anything can happen…but in this case, the showmanship was full of comradery and courage. It was really encouraging to feel a part of something “greater than” self.”
52 Couples, What Could Go Wrong?
Gathering 52 couples to get married in Central Park in front of TV cameras is a complicated endeavor. “As with any wedding day, there are certain factors completely beyond our control. You can be as prepared as a Thanksgiving Turkey, but there will still be people that might not eat Turkey or might not like how the Turkey looks on their plate. I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but I will say that drama is inevitable…and sometimes even welcomed.” Paige tells us.
She also explained how this series differed for her from the original series, “I love being a part of both formats, but for ‘Say Yes to the Dress America’ I was able to exercise my friendship muscles a little more. It made me feel a little ‘closer to the action’ and more accountable.”
To read about what Randy Fenoli had to say about “Say Yes to the Dress America,” click here.
The series culminates THIS Saturday, March 14th on TLC.
Photos Courtesy of Hayley Paige
