It’s always exciting when one of our own gets engaged or ties the knot. On 10/10/10, Maliha Haider (now Maliha Haider-Bardill, have to get used to that!), the mastermind behind chaos couture bridal, did just that! I figured this was the perfect time to find out a little more behind the studio’s headpiece, veil, and bouquet alternative designer.
Q: Why did you join the studio?
Maliha: I was inspired by the caliber of vendors I met while planning my own wedding. I met and booked my photographers (Project Duo!) before even hearing of StudioWed. They introduced me to some of the most talented, creative people I’ve ever met! It is truly an honor to be part of this amazing team. :)
Q: How did you get started making veils and headpieces?
Maliha: I started playing with beads and stones at 12 years old. I made jewelry – chokers were all the rage back then – and used my hobby to accessorize my wardrobe on a very tight allowance! I continued to make jewelry, with my designs and materials becoming increasingly more sophisticated. My hobby became a business just two short years ago and started in the wedding industry at the beginning of this year as I was planning my wedding.
Q: What business accomplishment are you most proud of?
Maliha: A month before my entry into the wedding industry with the official launch of chaos couture, my headpieces were featured in the 2010 NotWedding. It was an elaborate, fantastic debut!
Q: What is your favorite quote?
Maliha: I have a file about 20 pages long of ‘favorite quotes,’ but the one that inspired the name of my business and sums up my life beautifully is “we all live in a rainbow of chaos” by Paul Cézanne.
Q: Did you have another career before getting into the wedding industry?
Maliha: I currently have another career in the mental health field. I am a behavior analyst at a local hospital providing therapy to developmentally delayed adults.
Q: How would you spend your perfect Saturday?
Maliha: If we’re talking true fantasy here, my ideal Saturday would be spent somewhere outside of the country – a place I’ve never been, with great public transportation, and where I don’t yet know the language. I would wake up to the sound of the ocean, where I would spend the morning. After laying out and playing in the ocean, it would be time to go exploring. I’d hop on a train to the city and find a museum, preferably natural history, but I’m flexible. I’d seek out hidden treasures in small cafes and boutiques. I’d finish with an amazing local dinner and head back to read.
You have to check out the chaos couture bridal Etsy store (the craft mecca of the world!) to see more of her vintage-inspired designs, but she can also custom design the headpiece or veil you’ve been dreaming of! Thanks, Maliha, for taking the time to chat and congrats on your marriage! Can’t wait to see the photos and share them here!