Derry-based accessories designer Megan Ferguson of Megan Therese Couture, who offers brides a fresh alternative to hair adornments, tells us how she’s currently working on a new collection of pearl necklaces and earrings.
How did you get started as a designer?
I started my business when I was planning my own wedding. No one believes me when I tell them I'm actually a qualified building surveyor! I made a few mistakes when it came to my career choices, and this was by far the biggest. I was 30 when I opened Megan Therese, and that's when things really started to shift for me.
I was naturally gifted at art in school, so designing and drawing come easily to me, but I've never had any formal training in jewellery making. I literally started with a beginner's tool kit and a book my husband bought me. I worked hard every day and became committed to learning the techniques. I'm always really honest about my journey, and the fact that I'm self-taught is something I feel really proud of. I'm proof that it's never too late to change your career path.
What has been your biggest career highlight to date?
There have been a few that really stand out to me. Seeing my designs on the front cover of a magazine is definitely special. I've had a few front covers over the years, and they've always been proud moments for me; however, I can feel equally as proud of the moments that people don't see. Like when a collection sells really well, there's no better feeling.
Where do you look for creative inspiration?
I find most of my inspiration in nature, especially flowers. I love their delicacy, and the way their petals move always draws me in. I love translating that softness and romance into floral accessories that aren’t just beautiful for the moment, but become accessories that last forever.
I’m also inspired by shape and texture, whether that's in fabrics, paintings or the natural world. There's something about different textures and mixing materials that really excites me. I spend a lot of time sourcing quality pieces from around the world, ensuring that every pearl is high-grade and every element feels intentional.
What’s your favourite part about designing bridal accessories?
I love the freedom I have when I'm designing! There are no restrictions or limitations on what I can create. When I'm in the flow, I can spend hours designing and not even notice the time fly by.
Whilst designing is amazing, I believe there's so much magic in the making too! I obsess over the finer details, like how each element will connect to handpicking the perfect pearls and flowers for each piece. Discovering ways to bring everything together and seeing the final piece brought to life is exciting. I can't ever imagine outsourcing this part of my business. I feel that the fact that the pieces are handcrafted here in Ireland is what makes them so special and unique.
5/ How would you describe the woman who chooses to wear Megan Therese accessories?
She's a woman with a strong sense of self; she's bold and brave, and she wants her bridal accessories and jewellery to reflect that. She likes to push the boundaries slightly but still feels that her jewellery has a timeless appeal. She cares about quality. The story behind it matters to her. She's not here for fast-fashion jewellery and wants her wedding accessories and jewellery to last.
6/ How has your design style evolved over the past decade?
After a decade in business, my design style has certainly evolved, but my signature florals and timeless pearl details have remained. These materials are my 'go to ' that I come back to time and time again, making my designs instantly recognisable.
Over the years, I've figured out what really makes a piece work, and I obsess over proportions and understand their impact. Make an intricate and detailed piece too small, and you lose all impact instantly. Things like this can really make or break a design and my design experience has taught me this.
7/ What is the one piece of advice you would give to brides when choosing their accessories?
Don't buy your accessories and jewellery too early before you find your dress. You might absolutely love them, but then realise that they don't actually work with your dress. This can be an expensive mistake to make!
I've actually introduced a Try Before You Buy Service so you can be sure you find the right pieces! The service means you can take your jewellery to your final fitting and see how it looks with your dress before you commit and make the purchase.
It's a very rare service in bridal and indeed not the done thing when it comes to earrings. I'm really proud to be one of the first to bring this service to brides and allow them a personal shopping experience from home. It just gives my customers peace of mind when purchasing such a special piece.
8/ Which of your designs do you feel most connected to, and what’s the story behind it?
I feel such a huge connection to my pearl pieces . There's just something about using natural pearls that I love! They have such natural beauty, and I love that no two are ever the same, making each piece truly one of a kind. They are a classic that will never date and can be worn at all those important moments in your life, and even passed down to your children.
9/ What do you consider to be the major wedding dress styling trends for the year ahead?
I think unconventional styling will be massive this year. Alternative veil options, like neck and head scarves, will be huge. I played with a lace headscarf in this recent editorial and loved the results! It's certainly not for every bride, but the look is dreamy.
Pearls have been seeing a genuine revival in recent years, and I can see brides experimenting even more with pearls this coming year, not just with pearl earrings, but with layered pearl necklaces or singular drop baroque necklaces. Brides are getting more playful and brave with their accessories, and I love that!
10/ What’s next for Megan Therese? Are there any exciting projects or collections on the horizon?
I'm always planning and looking ahead in my business, and next year will be a big year for Megan Therese. This year I invested and built a gorgeous new studio for my business where all the design and production happens. I have so much space now and the opportunity to grow. I hope to grow a small team to support this next exciting stage in business! Keeping manufacturing local in Ireland is a must for me!
I have new collections coming next year, which is always very exciting. I love experimenting with design and bringing fresh ideas to market. I'm currently designing a collection of pearl necklaces to complement my earrings. I love the idea of brides being able to build a collection of Megan Therese pieces. Not just pieces they wear on their wedding day, but pieces that become heirlooms that they keep in their jewellery boxes forever.
- Gráinne