The 2013 Christianne Brunelle Collection at l'Auberge Saint-Gabriel

Alessia is all about texture through two different types of silk organza.  The
pleats on the bodice are slimming while the textured skirt is whimsical and lavish.

I am so happy to "unveil" my 2013 Collection.  It seemed fitting to stage the photoshoot at the beautiful Auberge St-Gabriel.  My own wedding took place there seven years ago, and I have the best memories.  I just love the character and architecture of the location.  In fact it is the oldest inn in North America.

Aileen is all about the beautiful open back and the gorgeous
Alencon lace.  Simplicity and romance come together beautifully.

This photo shoot and collection were especially close to my heart, as this is my own collection.  We have loaned our gowns for numerous shoots that were more collaborative efforts, but there is something just so satisfying about being able to conceptualize and execute a vision from A to Z.  I can't thank Lisa, (our in-house Designer and Stylist) enough who worked hard to go over everything from hair and concept inspiration right down to the perfect shade of lipstick.  Two of the dresses are in fact Lisa's designs, including the convertible dress below.

Laura is our Stylist Lisa's creation which is actually a silk satin inner dress paired with a lace overlay. The pieces can be purchased together or separately. Laura is named after Lisa's sister, who inspired the dress.

In terms of the inspiration for this collection, it is really all about simplicity and elegance. Our brides want to look beautiful without looking artificial, and that is partly why l'Auberge was the perfect location - it has lots of natural beauty and character, as do our dresses. This collection is made of natural fabrics such as silk satin and silk organza, which have nice movement and sheen, and with the earthy exposed brick walls, hardwood floors and antique furniture of l'Auberge, it became a perfect match.

Grace is an edgier take on a classic ball gown.  It has a full
circular-cut skirt of pure silk organza,and a corset-style bodice

There are a variety of silhouettes: mermaid, dropped waist, A-line and even two ball gowns.  I tend to design dresses that have a purity to them, and this collection is definitely representative of my core aesthetic: symmetry, minimal embellishment and a balanced silhouette.

Audrey is a modern classic with a gorgeous mermaid silhouette and slimming princess seams.

I also want to thank Julia Vona of junophoto for the excellent photography.  Cynthia-Cristina did a fantastic job on hair and make-up.  Last but not least, our "trooper" of a model Dimitra put up with a gruelling schedule and didn't even blink and eye when we pulled out the "booty-enhancing" crinoline!  We find she has a striking resemblance to Keira Knightly, don't you? 

Lynne is a lighthearted tulle ballgown for the inner girl in all of us.

Here is Maggie, our consultant Rina's favourite dress of all time.