Dressing Up with Sarah Kolis

Sarah Kolis
  • 5.0 (21)
  • FASHION & BEAUTY
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Welcome to the Dressing Up podcast! Join Sarah Kolis as she shares engaging 💍 tips about all things bridal dresses, wedding/event day advice, a little bit of sewing content, and all the tips and tricks of dressing up. Sarah talks about lots of bridal and general wedding day content, but not exclusively. Oftentimes, she finds that your wedding day is one of the few days in your life where you truly dress up and feel your most beautiful, and she hopes to encourage women to dress up more and confidently outside their wedding day. Sarah Kolis is a couture gown designer based in Detroit who serves the whole Midwest area and beyond specializing in complete custom couture bridal gowns, veils, and alterations. Sarah has a meticulous approach to quality service and will shape your garment to fit properly and match your personal shape and style. Working with such special gowns and dresses is truly an honor! Join Sarah as she interviews experts in this field, learn about her opinion on certain topics, and take a moment to show and enhance our own personal style through the clothes we wear. Visit https://sarahkolis.com/ to learn more, book of fitting, or inquire about designing the custom couture bridal gown of your dreams. Connect with Sarah: Website: https://sarahkolis.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahkolisdesigns/

  1. 1D AGO

    75. Planner & Photographer Duo with Caitlin & Mikayla

    This week on The Dressing Up Podcast, Sarah sits down with wedding planner Caitlin Bailey of Bunny & June Events and wedding photographer Mikayla Scheibe for a conversation all about the magic of a strong vendor team. From behind-the-scenes wedding day teamwork to building real friendships in the wedding industry, these two share exactly why chemistry between your vendors matters more than couples may realize. Sarah, Caitlin, and Mikayla dive into what actually creates a smooth wedding experience: communication, trust, preparation, and vendors who genuinely care about each other and the couple. Plus, there’s plenty of fashion talk, curly hair tips, emotional grandma fur coat stories, and rapid-fire wedding opinions! If you’re planning a wedding — or just love hearing how beautiful teamwork and friendship can completely elevate an experience — this episode is packed with insight and heart.  In This Episode:The Katie Seabolt wedding recap Building strong vendor relationships before the wedding day Why communication between vendors matters Bridal posing and photography tips Wedding investments that improve the experience The value of coordinators and day-of support Wedding photography turnaround times Couples’ biggest post-wedding regrets Why vendor chemistry impacts the entire wedding day Rapid fire wedding opinions   Connect with Caitlin & Mikayla: Caitlin Bailey — Bunny & June Events: Website: https://www.bunnyandjuneevents.com/ Instagram: @bunnyandjuneevents Mikayla Scheibe Photography: Website: https://mikaylascheibe.com/? Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikayla.scheibe/   If you have questions for Sarah to answer, send an email to hello@sarahkolis.com Connect with Sarah:  Website: https://sarahkolis.com/  Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahkolisdesigns/  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbh7HlVmyj9N5VsleuySxcQ

    48 min

  2. MAY 14

    74. Real Bride Series: Alexis and Shannon Tell It All

    We’re back with another Real Brides episode! Alexis and Shannon share the real stories behind their wedding days—from meaningful family moments to letting go of perfection and truly enjoying the experience. With two completely different wedding styles, this episode gives a refreshing look at what actually matters when the big day arrives. Alexis shares her July 2025 waterfront wedding at the Roostertail in Detroit, including how she handled extreme heat, why getting ready at her childhood home made the day more meaningful, and the quiet moment she shared with her dad before walking down the aisle. She talks about planning around a holiday weekend, skipping hotel blocks and shuttles, and how small custom details—like sewing a piece of her mom’s dress into her gown—made everything feel all that much more personal! Shannon walks us through her January 2026 winter wedding at St. John’s Resort (the Atrium), where snowfall right before the ceremony created a magical atmosphere. She shares why she skipped traditional bridesmaids, how she hosted a relaxed and joyful getting-ready morning with 20+ friends, and what it looked like to release control during planning. Shannon also opens up about decision fatigue, trusting vendors, and the surprising truth about what actually mattered on her wedding day! Shannon’s makeup artist: Andrea Fontana Beauty: www.andreafontanabeauty.com What you’ll walk away with: How to simplify your wedding day logistics (and what you can skip entirely) Creative ways to make your wedding more personal and meaningful A fresh perspective on bridal parties and getting-ready experiences Why letting go of perfection leads to a better wedding day What truly matters once the day finally arrives If you have questions for Sarah to answer, send an email to hello@sarahkolis.com Connect with Sarah:  Website: https://sarahkolis.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahkolisdesigns/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbh7HlVmyj9N5VsleuySxcQ

    41 min

  3. MAY 7

    73. Mothers: Dresses, Drama, Budgets, and Navigating the Big Day

    This episode is for every mother stepping into one of life’s most emotional (and sometimes overwhelming) roles—watching your child get married! Whether you’re the mother of the bride, the mother of the groom, or just a mom curious about what this season of life looks like, Sarah is sharing a real, honest, and incredibly helpful behind-the-scenes guide to navigating weddings with confidence, style, and grace.  This episode is your go-to resource for everything mothers need to know—from what to wear, to what to say (and what NOT to say!), to how to support your child without adding stress to everyone involved! Sarah’s in-person shopping rec’s in Metro Detroit: Beckers Bridal Outlet in Lansing (BEST option!), Clothing Cove (Milford), Ivory Loft (Fenton), Gina’s Bridal (Milford). A custom dress shopping option is Hana Abboud Bridal in Dearborn, and your bespoke custom couture option is yours truly! Email us at hello@sarahkolis.com if you are interested in a complete custom gown made by Sarah Kolis! (we need a 6+ month timeline for customs) Inside this episode:  What a realistic mother-of-the-bride/groom dress budget actually looks like  Where to shop (both online and in-person) for flattering, modern gowns  Why you shouldn’t over-involve the bride in your dress decisions  How to choose colors, styles, and even whether to wear a train   The truth about alterations, sizing, and avoiding common dress mistakes  Navigating family dynamics, communication, and wedding stress   How to support your child without overstepping (and still feel included)  Budget conversations: who pays for what—and how to handle it gracefully   Hosting responsibilities: bridal showers, rehearsal dinners & expectations  Wedding day do’s and don’ts (including what not to do as a parent)  Meaningful gift ideas and how to create special moments with your child  If you have questions for Sarah to answer, send an email to hello@sarahkolis.com

    47 min

  4. APR 30

    72. I Went All Out for My Sister’s Baby Shower… Here’s What Happened

    What happens when a bridal designer plans her niece’s baby shower? You get a celebration so detailed, so personalized, and so over-the-top—it has guests wondering if they accidentally walked into a wedding. In this solo episode, Sarah shares a heartfelt and joy-filled recap of hosting her youngest sister Melissa’s baby shower—an unforgettable, detail-packed celebration that perfectly blended family, creativity, and elevated event design! Stick around until the end to see a sweet interview with a surprise guest! Sarah walks through every thoughtful detail—from embroidered welcome signage and personalized party favors to a nostalgic “pink juice” lemonade bar inspired by childhood memories. She also shares behind-the-scenes insights into designing her very first custom maternity dress, plus the sweetest surprise: a matching mini dress for her sister’s childhood teddy bear! Photos and Blog Post here: https://sarahkolis.com/my-baby-sister-is-having-a-baby-kolis-baby-shower/ You’ll hear about:  The story behind Sarah’s new custom bridal purses and how to order one  Planning a high-end, deeply personal baby shower experience  Incorporating embroidery and heirloom details into event design  The design process behind a custom maternity dress  Creative, meaningful party elements (like monogrammed favors and childhood-inspired décor)  Collaborating with trusted vendors and family to bring a vision to life  A candid (and hilarious) post-party recap featuring Sarah’s dad’s perspectiveVendors: Couture Maternity Gown: Sarah KolisFlorals: Kaila Adam with The Flower Alley and K.Adam EventsPhotography: Penny with Penny Ralene PhotographyHair: Carleana with Hairpins & HappinessVenue: St. John’s Resort, The Abbey Room If you have questions for Sarah to answer, send an email to hello@sarahkolis.com Website: https://sarahkolis.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahkolisdesigns/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbh7HlVmyj9N5VsleuySxcQ

    24 min

  5. MAR 19

    71. Sarah Solo: Day-of Styling, Custom Embroidery & Vintage Redesigns

    Planning your wedding wardrobe is about so much more than just the dress, it's about how you feel throughout every moment of your special day. In this solo episode, Sarah shares her recent experience styling Katie and Nik's gorgeous Shinola Hotel wedding, plus insider tips on the latest bridal trends, custom embroidery options, and the magic of vintage redesigns! Whether you're a bride-to-be, a mother of the bride, or simply love all things fashion and weddings, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and that extra dose of encouragement you need to stay true to yourself throughout the wedding planning journey!   In This Episode, You'll Learn: Current bridal trends: reception dresses, intentional pieces, and the rise of sustainabilityCustom embroidery options: garment bags, purses, sashes, robes, and sentimental giftsHow to transform vintage wedding dresses into rehearsal dinner looks and heirloomsMother of the bride shopping tips (start NOW!) and where to find the best selectionBuilding your complete wedding wardrobe beyond the dressSarah's rapid fire advice: what matters, what doesn't, what's worth splurging on and what to skip If you have questions for Sarah to answer, send an email to hello@sarahkolis.comConnect with Sarah: Website: https://sarahkolis.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahkolisdesigns/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbh7HlVmyj9N5VsleuySxcQ

    37 min

  6. MAR 12

    70. The Industry Secrets No One Talks About with Megan Kennedy

    When the entire bridal party got food poisoning the night before the wedding, someone had to step it up! That key leader was Megan Kennedy—and that chaotic day launched her entire wedding planning career! In this episode, Sarah sits down with Megan Kennedy, founder of Kennedy Planning Co, for an honest conversation about what really happens behind the scenes in the wedding industry. Megan shares the unfiltered truth about wedding planning, why "timeless" weddings are actually about ignoring trends, and the do's and don'ts of working with a wedding planner.    In This Episode: Why you should contact your dream vendors before you even set a dateThe real difference between day-of coordination and full planning What "timeless" actually means—and why it has nothing to do with Instagram trendsThe viral TikTok mistake that's stressing out wedding parties everywhereWhich classic wedding traditions are quietly disappearingWhy recreating your wedding photos years later might be exactly what you needThe brutal truth about weekend work and why wedding vendors plan their lives a year in advanceMegan's one-word wedding day advice that changes everything: stay present Connect with Megan: Website: https://kennedyplanningco.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kennedyplanningco/ If you have questions for Sarah to answer, send an email to hello@sarahkolis.comConnect with Sarah: Website: https://sarahkolis.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahkolisdesigns/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbh7HlVmyj9N5VsleuySxcQ

    52 min

  7. FEB 26

    69. The Target Bedsheet Dress Goes International: A UK Bride's DIY Wedding Gown Journey

    When Betty Smith saw Sarah's Target bedsheet dress go viral on Instagram, she knew it had to be her wedding dress. Just one tiny problem: she'd never sewn a single stitch in her life… In this episode, Sarah shares one of her all-time favorite podcast conversations with Betty Smith, a UK bride who discovered Sarah's viral Target bedsheet dress on Instagram and knew instantly it was THE dress. There was just one problem: Betty lived in London, had never sewn before, and Target doesn't ship to the UK. What followed was an extraordinary 18-month journey of determination, creativity, and family teamwork that resulted in a stunning handmade wedding gown. From orchestrating an international fabric hunt to secretly sewing in her parents' kitchen while keeping her fiancé completely in the dark, Betty's story is equal parts inspiring and heartwarming. In This Episode, You'll Learn: How Betty orchestrated a six-month international mission to get Target bedsheets from the US to LondonWhy Betty decided to teach herself to sew with zero prior experienceThe essential role Betty's mom Emma and family friend Sophie played in transforming their kitchen into a sewing studio and creating a custom-fit gownSewing tips for making a practice dress first, sourcing quality underlining fabrics, and working with semi-custom patternsCreative ways Betty personalized the wedding Betty's refreshing advice on skipping traditions that don't feel authentic and making your wedding truly yoursIf you have questions for Sarah to answer, send an email to hello@sarahkolis.comConnect with Sarah: Website: https://sarahkolis.com/Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahkolisdesigns/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbh7HlVmyj9N5VsleuySxcQ

    52 min

  8. FEB 19

    68. Real Bride Series: Nicole, Julia, and Bianca Tell It All

    We're back with another Real Brides episode Sarah sits down with Nicole Humbert, Julia Schalk, and Bianca Hessenbruch to hear all about their dream weddings, emotional moments, and the details that made their big days unforgettable! From Greek dancing and champagne sabering mishaps to custom Disney gowns and greenhouse venues, these three women bring completely different perspectives on what makes a wedding truly special! In this episode: Nicole shares her September 2025 wedding at the Detroit Athletic Club, including how she incorporated lace from her grandmother's wedding dress, why she never had that "Say Yes to the Dress" moment until her actual wedding day, and the hilarious story of her maid of honor's champagne sabering attempt during her speech. She also opens up about planning a 220-person Greek wedding while simultaneously renovating a house and buying a new home—and how the unexpected Tigers game fireworks made for stunning rooftop photos! Julia walks us through her meticulously planned October 2024 fall wedding at Cherry Creek Golf Course, how she and her mom DIY enhanced all wedding paper goods. She shares the full story of creating a custom Disney Bridal gown by combining design elements from two different princess dresses, why velvet bridesmaid dresses and envelope liners were non-negotiables, and what it was really like planning her dream Italy honeymoon. Julia also talks about why having a pre-fitting consultation was a MUST and gave her total peace of mind! Bianca describes her fairy-tale October 2025 wedding at Planterra, the stunning greenhouse-style venue in metro Detroit. She opens up about her weight loss journey leading up to the wedding, why scheduling alone time with her husband between the ceremony and reception was one of her best decisions, and how adding structural boning to her strapless gown made her feel secure and beautiful all day long. She also shares practical planning advice for brides considering Planterra! If you have questions for Sarah to answer, send an email to hello@sarahkolis.com  Connect with Sarah: Website: https://sarahkolis.com/  Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahkolisdesigns/  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbh7HlVmyj9N5VsleuySxcQ

    58 min
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Trailer

5
out of 5
21 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Dressing Up podcast! Join Sarah Kolis as she shares engaging 💍 tips about all things bridal dresses, wedding/event day advice, a little bit of sewing content, and all the tips and tricks of dressing up. Sarah talks about lots of bridal and general wedding day content, but not exclusively. Oftentimes, she finds that your wedding day is one of the few days in your life where you truly dress up and feel your most beautiful, and she hopes to encourage women to dress up more and confidently outside their wedding day. Sarah Kolis is a couture gown designer based in Detroit who serves the whole Midwest area and beyond specializing in complete custom couture bridal gowns, veils, and alterations. Sarah has a meticulous approach to quality service and will shape your garment to fit properly and match your personal shape and style. Working with such special gowns and dresses is truly an honor! Join Sarah as she interviews experts in this field, learn about her opinion on certain topics, and take a moment to show and enhance our own personal style through the clothes we wear. Visit https://sarahkolis.com/ to learn more, book of fitting, or inquire about designing the custom couture bridal gown of your dreams. Connect with Sarah: Website: https://sarahkolis.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahkolisdesigns/

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