Although Thomas and Nicole Matthews got married alongside the beach in Maui, Hawaii on June 9, 2017, this was not your traditional Hawaiian beach affair. Wearing an enchanting Pnina Tornai ball gown, Nicole basked in the beauty that was her upscale and formal wedding vision come to life.

Nicole was a bride that knew exactly what she was looking for in a wedding gown, and for her it was all about the fit. Looking for a gown that highlighted her silhouette and cinched her in at the waist, Nicole paid a visit to Kleinfeld Bridal still in search of her dream wedding dress. Initially believing that a mermaid or fitted gown would be the silhouette to do the trick but having no luck during her previous shopping trips, Nicole was open to any gown that would match her bridal vision.

The consultant pulled a number of gowns for Nicole to try on hoping to help her find her ideal wedding dress. The first gown that Nicole tried on was a Pnina Tornai ball gown with a lace and pearl embellished corset and a silk organza skirt. Amazed at how well it cinched in her waist and complemented her natural silhouette, Nicole kept the stunning gown in mind while trying on other dresses. Stuck between the Pnina Tornai ball gown and another form-fitting gown it all came down to the fit and the reaction of her shopping posse.

“It was a little bit of shock and disbelief all at the same time,” the practical bride explains of the moment she knew the Pnina Tornai ball gown had won her heart. “I had never thought I would have that ‘say yes’ moment, but once my mom cried and my bridesmaids started crying I was like okay this is it!”

The dazzling ball gown could not have been a better match for Nicole. Being someone who shied away from being the center of attention, Nicole wanted a gown that would be really beautiful but not have everyone gawking at her. The combination of the intricate lace with the dramatic ball gown skirt struck the ideal balance for Nicole. In addition the sweetheart neckline perfectly complemented her natural assets making the gown an all around win.

Nicole elaborates, “I wanted people to be looking at me in the dress and not just the dress.”