Monday June 25, 2012
NYC Dreams to Designs: The Story of Jean-Ralph Thurin, Couture Wedding Gown Designer
 Jean-Ralph Thurin, Wedding Gown Designer |
Trying on wedding gowns in a luxurious setting that makes you feel relaxed and regal is one important factor that is often overlooked by brides. Thurin Atelier gives brides who enter through their doors a special ambiance that it is hard to find in these days. Hopefully, you will only be shopping for a wedding gown once in your lifetime, so you want to make sure that you pick a salon that will make looking for a dress a stress-free and exciting experience. Also, don’t forget to take plenty of pictures! |
Jean-Ralph Thurin of Thurin Atelier, Talia, Price, $4,500
Q & A with Jean Ralph-Thurin, Wedding Gown Designer
What should brides bring to their first appointment at Thurin Atelier?
Tear sheets of ideas or silhouettes they may have tried on – but most importantly an open mind.
What are some of the misconceptions brides have about finding the perfect wedding gown?
Sometimes a bride may dream her whole life about a certain look – however that look may not always fit her body shape or look best on her. That’s one reason why it is important to keep an open mind to different silhouettes and ideas.
What are the rules for finding the perfect pair of bridal shoes to go with your wedding gown?
First of all, make sure they’re HOT! These days having the right pair of shoes is key. For a spring summer wedding, strappy-bling never goes out of style. For the Fall, platforms or a peep toe is always refreshing. But obviously, comfort is number one – you don’t want to be in pain on your wedding day!
Jean-Ralph Thurin of Thurin Atelier, Tamiko, Price is $5,000
| What was the first garment you designed? The first garment I designed was for my cousin: it was a wedding gown with a drop waist and the top was in lace with a satin skirt. | Where in New York were you born? How did your hometown influence your current style? I was born in Manhattan. I love architecture so the NY skyline with its intricate buildings and beautiful lines have always had an influence on my design style. | Your biography says that your father worked for the United Nations. Which country’s style do you adore and why? It’s hard to pick a country. Maybe, that’s why I consider myself to be a designer for the international woman: she’s adventurous, self-assured and knows she looks great in her clothes. Although I have to say, I am partial to the fashion capitals of the world – New York, Paris, London and Milan. |
Jean-Ralph Thurin of Thurin Atelier, Alice, Price is $3,800
| How many languages do you speak? In addition to English, French, Creole and some Spanish. | What was one of the most important things your Grandmother taught you about designing?Patience. | What was your favorite class at the Parsons School of Design? Draping and Pattern-making. |
How much does your wife, Delfrance, influence your design? Did you design your wife’s wedding dress? How did you meet your wife? How did you propose?
Actually, she influences everything. She has a great sense of style and I always seek her feedback on all of my designs first. Her perspective is important because she is able to tell me if what I’ve design will be comfortable and easy for a woman to wear…which is key for me. I did design and make PART of her dress. She made the rest. Her sisters would not allow me to see the finished product – we needed to have an element of surprise. My wife and I met in our senior year in high school and I proposed 5 1/2 years later. I remember being so nervous. I bought her ring at Tiffany’s and asked them to put the little blue box which contained the ring, inside several other graduated bigger blue boxes. The day I asked her to marry me was a very mundane day – that turned into one of the most memorable days of my life.
What music is most likely playing when you are creating a new wedding gown?
80s and 90s pop music.
Jean-Ralph Thurin of Thurin Atelier, Rachelle, Price is $5,700
| Favorite place to eat in Somerville, New Jersey? Thai Origins | Please name your favorite bridal TV shows. I don’t really have a favorite – I enjoy watching most of them for different reasons. | I love griot and rice and beans. What is your favorite Haitian cuisine entrée? Believe it or not you hit the spot – Griot is my favorite. (Edit Note: Griot is Pork) |
What can you expect to see at your typical Haitian-American wedding?
Lots of home cooked specialties, great island music and the embrace of a people full of warmth and a penchant for enjoying life.
In our bio you revealed your affinity for architecture. Which architectural style is your favorite?
A cross between art deco and modern.
I am NOT ashamed to admit that I watch this TV show!
Say Yes to the Dress
I am NOT ashamed to admit that I own this album!
Madonna’s Greatest Hits. “Holiday” was the best jam.
Inside Thurin Atelier
Brides and their family can wait for their special appointment to being in a luxurious setting.
Facts about Jean Ralph-Thurin
Owner of Thurin Atelier which was started in 1990.
Sells custom bridal gowns, custom evening and formal wear, and one-of-a-kind attire for any special occasion.
Jean – Ralph sells Sell an evening boutique collection, a line of little black dresses; and a bridal collection. He also has an accessory and shoe collection for you to match with your dress.
Jean-Ralph has been featured in The New York Times and several other publications and t.v. shows.
