Mariana Hardwick is a renowned entrepreneur and business owner who has made a name for herself as the leading designer of bridal couture and luxury wedding fashion in Australia. Born and raised in Melbourne, Australia, Mariana has always had a deep passion for fashion and creativity. After graduating from college with an arts degree, she set out to pursue a career as a creative entrepreneur.
In the early days of her career, Mariana gained valuable experience by working in small fashion shops, where she honed her skills and developed her unique design aesthetic. It was during this time that she discovered her love for creating custom gowns and unique pieces that reflected her personal style and creativity. Eventually, she decided to take a leap of faith and launch her own boutique, The Garb Shop, where she began selling her own designs to a growing number of loyal customers.
While Mariana initially focused on creating high fashion pieces with a vintage flair, it was not until the 1970s that she stumbled upon her true calling as a bridal designer. Known for her use of Victorian lace, ruffles, and cream hues, Mariana's designs quickly gained popularity among brides-to-be looking for something unique and stylish to wear on their wedding day. As more and more women began choosing her designs for their weddings, Mariana realized that bridalwear was where her true passion and talent lay.
In 1982, Mariana officially launched her eponymous bridal brand, Mariana Hardwick, which quickly became a household name in the world of luxury wedding fashion. Her gowns have been worn by numerous celebrities and high-profile clients, including fashion model Chantelle Stanton. With a focus on craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a dedication to creating one-of-a-kind pieces, Mariana has solidified her reputation as one of the top bridal designers in Australia.
In 2010, Mariana made the decision to appoint her daughter-in-law, Rebekah Malone, as the managing director of her bridal business. Malone, who is married to Mariana's youngest son, Sebastian, has been instrumental in helping the brand grow and expand its reach both nationally and internationally. Together, Mariana and Rebekah have continued to push the boundaries of bridal fashion, creating stunning designs that continue to captivate brides all over the world.
One of Mariana's most iconic designs, "Nahla," gained national attention when it was worn by Cathy Evans on the 7th season of Married at First Sight (Australia). The show, which featured renowned relationship expert John Aiken, showcased the beauty and elegance of Mariana's designs to a global audience.
Mariana Hardwick's legacy as a trailblazer in the world of bridal couture continues to inspire and influence designers and brides alike. With a passion for creativity, a commitment to quality, and a dedication to providing exceptional customer service, Mariana has cemented her status as a true visionary in the world of fashion.