Mimosa Powder Blue | Images by Emma Case Photography

I am pinching myself right now, for I am interviewing the amazing Rachel Simpson of Rachel Simpson Shoes fame today. Over 5 years ago I excitedly discovered Rachel Simpson Shoes. I vividly remember attending a wedding show, meeting Rachel herself and trying on her beautiful designs.

From then on I have been hooked and it’s been wonderful to see Rachel’s brand evolve into a first stop destination for stylish brides. I have featured many Rachel Simpson brides and know many of you adore her designs too.

So let me introduce to you Rachel, who shares her tips of finding the perfect bridal shoe, a teaser of what’s to come this year and a peek at the gorgeous vintage inspired collection of shoes and bridal accessories….

 

Hi Rachel, could you firstly tell WWW readers a little bit about you?

I’m a slightly work-obsessed shoe designer who started off making shoes and ended up running a company, which never ceases to amaze me! I work hard and play hard, and have a love of proper cake and good coffee.

Forget-Me-Not

Gardenia Ivory

What do you love about your job?

The people. I’m lucky enough to work with a fantastic team, as well as a list of passionate and talented designers and suppliers. There’s always someone popping in at our place, so the kettle is pretty much constantly on! I also love seeing new collections take shape, particularly opening up a delivery of brand new samples..

Honeysuckle

How did you get into shoe design and into the wedding industry?

Rachel Simpson was launched in 2008 and has since gone on to become a well-loved brand for its unique vintage inspired style, and shoes you can wear again. It all started when I used to make bespoke shoes by hand in my workshop at the bottom of the garden, where I also made my sister’s wedding shoes. This revealed a gap in the market for brides wanting something truly wearable and that little bit different.

The brand has grown and evolved since then taking on more staff, opening a new boutique and launching a completely new brand to sit alongside our bridal collections, but the core values remain the same – shoes which are beautiful, affordable and wearable.

Mimosa Pale Peach

What do you aim to achieve for your clients?

I want brides to feel like they’re walking on air on their big day – not just in terms of comfort, but also in a looking down at their shoes and thinking WOW, kind of way! Because that’s how a good pair of shoes should make you feel.

What style is your work?

Understated, elegant and always with intricate attention to detail. I like to combine ideas inspired by the 1920s through to the 1950s, with up to date silhouettes, and truly gorgeous materials. It’s sophisticated but doesn’t take itself too seriously!

Jasmine Antique Gold

Could you tell us some information about your pricing?

Our shoes range from £150 – £180 for beautiful, handmade shoes. Our shoes are handmade with full leather linings and soles, specialising in wearable heel heights and understated design. The shoes are as comfortable as they are stylish, yet uniquely affordable, offering a designer look at an achievable price.

Mimosa Silver Haircomb

 

Tell us about your typical working day.

I’m an early riser and tend to get up at 6am, getting ready with a my first cuppa of the day. After a musically enhanced drive to work, (if I’m in the office) I’ll always be at my desk by 8am, having inhaled a bowl of porridge and made cup of tea number two. I catch up on emails, write a list for the day ahead before chatting to the team as they arrive. To be honest, there is no typical day, so one day I might be working on design development of a new collection, before having a meeting about website development or IT systems the next.

I’m out of the office a lot, visiting customers and suppliers, and occasionally (if I’m very good ;)) getting out for some design inspiration.

If you could choose another role in the wedding industry what would it be?

Tough question – I’m a shoe designer by trade, who found herself in the wedding industry, rather than a wedding professional who started designing shoes, so it’s more likely I’d still be designing shoes but for another market sector.

Myrtle

Do you have any tips for brides when it comes to finding the perfect accessories?

Consider your style of dress, the time of year, whether you are having an indoor or outdoor wedding. You shouldn’t need to buy two pairs, for when the first are crippling you an hour into the reception. All our shoes are beautifully wearable and many brides will tell us they have worn theirs long into the night and onto the dance floor.

Finally, don’t stress about finding the perfect pair of wedding shoes – this is SHOE SHOPPING ladies! How often do you have the opportunity to buy your dream shoes? Enjoy it, have fun and be confident in the fact that you will look amazing!

Orange Blossom

 

Are you seeing any new trends for the year ahead?

Colour continues to grow in popularity, with brides less wary of being traditional. Soft pastel tones and metallic are strong, as they can be matched to a wide palette of dress colours and aren’t too overpowering, simply adding a subtle peep of personality and style.

Jasmine Antique Silver

Can you give us a teaser about what you are working on now?

Ooh I think so.. we’re actually ridiculously excited about this one, so are finding it hard not to talk about it! We’re launching our new collection at the exciting début London Bridal Fashion Week in May. Think romantic, warm, soft and sophisticated, moving away from the traditional and taking wedding shoes in an entirely delicious direction.

Bluebell

How can we get in touch with you?

Website | http://www.rachelsimpsonshoes.com

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/rachelsimpsonshoes

Twitter | http://www.twitter.com/rachelshoes

Instagram | http://www.instagram.com/rachelsimpsonshoes

Pinterest | https://www.pinterest.com/bridalshoelove/

Email | info@rachelsimpsonshoes.co.uk

Telephone | 0121 433 5492

Beaded Rose Hair Clip and Catherine Hairpins

Wow what an honour. Thank you SO much Rachel.

I so adore the delicate pretty hair accessories and those divine metallic T bar shoes. If I were planning my wedding right now, I’d be torn between Jasmine Antique Gold, Mimosa Powder Blue or the flirty flats 🙂

Which pair are your fave girls? xo Lou

Myrtle Headdress and Sparkle Comb

*Rachel Simpson Shoes is a Whimsical Wonderland Weddings sponsor*