‘You aren’t saying anything. You hate the idea, don’t you? Do you think it’s too out of the ordinary and I should stick to a traditional dress?’ Julia asked, concern evident in her tone.
Libby looked up and met Julia’s gaze. ‘Hate it? Far from it. Julia, this is what you call fashion forward, on trend and truly a vision. I absolutely love it! Have you ever thought of becoming a fashion designer?’
‘They’re just scribbles,’ Julia replied humbly, but from her expression Libby could tell she was secretly chuffed at the validation.
‘In that case, these scribbles will turn heads. This outfit is striking.’
‘That’s the plan!’ Julia wore a huge smile. ‘For a second I honestly thought you didn’t like it. My heart was beating so fast.’
‘A champagne bodice and ivory trousers—the perfect combination.’ The drawings showed the bodice with long lace bubble sleeves and a high boat neckline. ‘These details bring it all to life.’ With dozens of 3D florals covering the top and all the way down the arms and back, it was truly breathtaking. It was finished perfectly with pearl clasps down the back. The wide plain trousers were a contrast in their elegance and minimalist style.
‘And to wear on top for any outdoor photos, I was thinking something like this.’ Julia turned over to the next page.
‘I’m glad my new boss hasn’t seen this because I think I’d be out of a job,’ teased Libby. She was looking at a stunning jacket in silver feather plumes with a three-quarter sleeve. It was the ultimate lightweight cropped jacket that complemented the trouser suit perfectly without compromising on shape and detail. ‘I absolutely love the colour!’
‘I thought with a soft satin lining and covered in delicate faux feathers,’ added Julia, looking at Libby for her approval.
‘I think you’ve nailed it. It will hang softly against the body but will also give you that extra warmth. We can attach the front of the jacket with a discreet hook-and-eye fastener so it can be worn open for maximum exposure of that fabulous suit. You’ve made my job so easy,’ admitted Libby, taking a sip of wine.
‘Your job?’
‘Yes, my job. You have to let me make this design for you.’
Julia gave a tiny gasp. ‘Are you sure?’
‘Of course I’m sure. I’d be offended if you didn’t let me.’
‘Eek!’ Julia gave a squeal and hugged Libby tightly. ‘Thank you, thank you, thank you.’
‘You don’t have to thank me. It’s what sisters-in-law are for.’
Julia held up her glass and chinked it against Libby’s. ‘You have really made my night.’
‘These 3D flowers on the bodice will all be hand sewn and I have just the perfect material in mind.’
‘But that will take for ever.’
‘I best get started then!’
Libby could see the happiness written all over Julia’s face. ‘You’re going to knock the socks off Flynn when you walk down the aisle.’
‘Whenis the very question, but that is the plan!’
‘And this wedding cake looks scrumptious,’ exclaimed Libby. ‘Those frosted fruits look incredible on that white cake and those sugar crusted cranberries are striking. You have made the wedding planner’s job very easy.’
‘And because it’s a winter wedding I was thinking it would be fun to place a sprig of mistletoe in the men’s buttonholes so anyone could sneak a quick kiss if they dare.’
‘Brilliant! I love that idea and all of these. You have such a clear vision. It makes me wonder what the competition winners are like and what type of wedding they want. I need to read up on them before I meet them.’
‘I don’t know anything about them. But it must have been a hard job and a tough decision to wade through all the entries and pick a winner.’ Julia placed the scrapbook back on the table and began tucking into the food. ‘I have to say though, I find it so strange that Jenny resigned so abruptly. She loved her job. I was talking to her only forty-eight hours before and she never said a word. Let’s just hope you and Guy don’t follow suit.’
‘I’m not going anywhere. Free accommodation, food and a wedding … what’s not to like?’
‘You’re smiling,’ Julia noticed. ‘I mentioned his name and now you’re smiling.’
‘I’m not,’ protested Libby, but she was finding it hard to tame the smile on her face.
‘Have you met him yet or just stalked him on social media?’ Julia tilted her head to one side waiting for an answer.
