An interview with Trish Peng

Our interview series is all about powerhouse women and men who inspire us through their work, creativity, business and passion. At Papier hq we are all about supporting and uplifting one another. These amazing individuals are here to share some of their expertise. Introducing the talented creative director and founder of Trish Peng Bridal.

This week for our interview series we had the privilege of sitting down with the lovely Trish Peng. Trish is the founder of Trish Peng, a world-class luxury Bridal and Evening wear brand renowned for creating custom made masterpieces. We caught up with Trish to have a chat about her business ventures, what she is looking forward to most in 2021 and some advice to brides who are about to tie the knot!

1. Can you tell us the story behind Trish Peng bridal and why you decided to start your business?

I was born and raised in Auckland. I knew when I was 7 that I wanted to be a designer. I was inspired by all things beautiful. I would dress up in my Mum’s wardrobe any chance I could. My Mum purchased a little sewing machine and I taught myself the basics of how to sew. I started creating custom dresses for clients when I was studying at Whitecliffe College and women started asking for custom Bridal gowns. I started my brand whilst studying at Whitecliffe and then never looked back, here we are 7 years later.

2. What has been a standout highlight or achievement?

I've somehow created a couple of world firsts, which was surprising as I didn't set out with that intention. It includes our record-breaking longest train on a catwalk and our world's first reversible bridal collection.
Daily Mail article - red dress
Marie Claire - reversible dress

3. How would you describe your design process?

It depends if I'm designing for a client or for my collections. When designing for a bride, I combine what they want with my aesthetic. If I design for a collection, it depends on what inspires me at the time but it is usually feminine, romantic, flattering silhouettes for women.

4. We love the style and sophistication of your bridalwear. How have you ensured your brand stands out from the competition?

Everything we do has a personalised touch. We only take one appointment at a time so from the moment the bride walks in the door they get a one on one time. We even offer a deluxe consultation which includes a mini high tea from Bluebells Cakery and Laurent Perrier Champagne. I sketch their dress in front of them and at their final fitting, they get a copy of the sketch as well as their name embroidered on their garment bag. We also make our dresses in our workroom right behind our Grey Lynn flagship store.

5. What wedding fashion trends we can expect to see more of in 2021?

A lot of brides are still after the classic, plain look, this can be styled up with a pearl veil or even a detachable top to give two different looks.

6. What advice would you give to bride to be’s as their big day gets closer?

I would say to not stress about the little things, the wedding planning should be fun!

7. Do you have any advice for other entrepreneurs or women and men wanting to start their own business?

I would say to them that you can’t trade anything for experience, I would recommend getting work experience in the particular industry you want to start the business in. If you already have the experience, then go for it and take risks, make the most of every opportunity as you never know where it will lead.

8. What are you looking forward to in 2021?

We have just launched our sister brand Yours Truly (yourstrulybridal.co.nz) which sell new, pre-loved and sample wedding dresses from any designer. This shop has just opened right behind my current store in Grey Lynn. The new venture is a way to provide Kiwi women with more options when it comes to choosing what to wear on their special day, and to play a part in helping reduce fashion waste by encouraging the re-use of gowns that still have life left in them yet, a great alternative for those conscious about sustainability.

We are also committed to donating $10 from every sale to charity, offering a selection of deserving causes that buyers can choose from including Women’s Refuge, Starship Foundation and Breast Cancer Foundation NZ.