Sarah Mars saw a top of the line ball gown at a show a couple of years ago and it was her dream that she would someday wear it.
Brian Perry Gowns, based in Wanganui, has the occasional show at which exquisite ball gowns are modelled and displayed.
The gown in question,
the Riviera Multi-Coloured Flowing Gown in fine silk chiffon, will be worn for the first time at the Countdown Ball in Wanganui on October 31.
"Sarah contacted me a month or two back to ask if she could buy the gown," says Brian. "No-one else had actually worn this in New Zealand and it's quite a spectacular gown so I sorted out a good price for her."
Brian also suggested he give Sarah the use of a fur-lined winter snow cape with a hood to wear with the gown for the occasion. "That would look really nice with it."
"My best friend Sarah invited me to go to the Countdown Ball," says Sarah. "We went all around Wanganui dress shopping for her - and she can fit pretty much anything - but I find it really hard to fit dresses. Then I remembered Brian's gown, which I had tried on at a ladies' night at Top Kids Harrison and I've never ever forgotten about it. You can see why."
Sarah got in touch with Brian and she and the dress were reunited.
"As soon as I saw Sarah in that gown, I knew she had to wear it to the ball," says Brian. "It suited her perfectly."
Only three copies of the gown were ever made and the other two are still in Brian's studio, making the Countdown Ball the gown's social debut.
"There's nothing nicer than to make a woman's day," says Brian. "Oh, you've done that," says Sarah.
