{The Wedding Standard}: Untamed Petals {Vintage Inspired Accessories}

Meet Amanda Gilbert. She is the whimsical mastermind behind Untamed Petals. I had the pleasure of photographing her vintage inspired accessories in Emily’s Bay Area wedding back in October. She designed hair pieces for all of Emily’s bridesmaids as well as participated in the wedding as a bridesmaid herself. I have been excited to feature her work ever since! I recently hosted a photography workshop in which the models, including my wife, also rocked a couple of her pieces.

Amanda is based out of NYC but sells her work on her Etsy store. She has been featured on The Brides Café, Green Wedding Shoes, and Style Me Pretty. Some of her pieces will be in the March 17th Episode of Americas Next Top Model!

What is the story of untamed petals?

“I believe that every girl deserves something one of a kind in their wardrobe. The Untamed Petals philosophy is that the accessory makes the outfit, which is why each headpiece, belt, corsage, and fascinator is created to make a bold statement and complete any look. Constructed from the highest quality materials--from imported silk chiffon to vintage rhinestone buttons--an Untamed Petals Accessory looks glamorous on any bride, yet chic enough to wear out for drinks on the weekend. I love to tailor each piece to reflect the client's individual taste, with the ultimate goal of creating a completely original heirloom that will never go out of style!"

Why did you name your business untamed petals?

Coming up with a name for my company was one of the hardest parts of starting my own business because I knew that this would be my brand forever. I wanted the name to describe the pieces I was creating and since my designs tend to be inspired by flowers that are often “perfectly imperfect” it just came to me.

What is your philosophy when you create these pieces?

My philosophy when creating each piece is to just go with my instincts. Oftentimes I get ideas in my head and then I sit down to make them and come up with something completely different. I get inspired as I go with the way different fabrics and materials start working together and it usually turns out even better than I imagined. Also, when it comes to what I like my friends will assure you that I always think the more bling the better! The vintage glamour look always draws me in and inspired my pieces so bring on the rhinestones, pearls and beads!

Where do you find your inspiration?

Living in New York I am surrounded by the most amazing fashion houses in the country so naturally when I walk around the city it is nearly impossible for me to not feel inspired. I also have the amazing fashion district with is FULL of fabric and trimming stores that are wall to wall with materials. If I ever find myself needing some inspiration for a piece I just wander into one of my favorite stores and leave with tons of new ideas AND new materials which keeps the items in my shop fresh.

What was the first piece you ever created?
The first piece I ever made was a floral bridal sash with a large white flower and pink flower accents. I remember listing it as the first item in my shop and feeling so proud! Someone did end up buying it and wearing it on their wedding. That was the best feeling know that I had created something for a bride to wear on one of the most important days of their lives. I think that is when I got hooked on bridal accessories. It is such an honor making something special for brides.

How far in advance should a bride place a custom order with you?

I try to work on a pretty fast timeline and will of course work with brides on their timing needs but generally I would allot about 3 weeks for an order from my shop or 4 to 6 weeks for a custom order.

What is the most popular accessory in your shop?

This is definitely the Swarovski rhinestone headband or halo. It has just the right amount of sparkle and can be worn with so many different styles. I think it is classic, elegant and fun all at the same time. I actually have one for myself and wear it all the time even with jeans and a t-shirt!

What accessory could you not live without?
Besides my rhinestone headband I am currently hooked on one of the new items in my shop, the large bow headband. It is quite the bold statement piece but it takes any outfit to a whole new level of stylish! I definitely get the most compliments on this one.

Besides Untamed Petals, what are other ways you like to express your creativity?

I love to decorate my house (especially around the holidays). And, I LOVE fashion so I guess you could say my clothes are a creative expression in themselves!

What does the future hold for Untamed Petals?

I am very excited for the future of Untamed Petals. I am working on finishing my website right now and have lots of new items in store for this coming year. I am also very excited for some fun press opportunities coming up in the future. I just completed shooting with America’s Next Top Model for an episode in season 13 which I am super excited about. I created some really fun accessories for the shoot and I am looking forward to seeing them on TV! There is so much more I can’t wait to do with the shop and I am looking forward to growing and learning more everyday.