Renee Strauss and her ‘Brides of Beverly Hills’

Renee Strauss has designed dresses and styled celebrities such as Paula Abdul, Diane Keaton and Heather Locklear. She’s the star of a new reality show -- which premieres June 16 on Slice -- called Brides of Beverly Hills. The Canadian series focuses on brides who solicit the help of Strauss and her team of experts at her popular Los Angeles bridal boutique. We chat with Strauss about the new reality show in this exclusive interview.

SL: What drew you to styling and the wedding business?


RS: I loved the glamour of parties growing up (in a gourmet Kosher-catering family) but never liking the food business, wedding gowns seemed a natural
fit.

How would you describe Brides of Beverly Hills?

Fun, full of surprises, filled with gorgeous gowns and hysterical circumstances. 



How did the show come about?

Toronto producers Planetworks approached me and pitched the idea. I enthusiastically jumped in and also suggested they include Kevin Lee as my event planner/creative director. 



What was one of the most challenging moments this season?

Logistics of rotating merchandise and getting designers to understand the show’s potential in order to get products. But I have learned how to handle it much better for next season -- fingers crossed. 



What’s your favourite reality show right now?



The Housewives franchise: glamour and gauche rolled up together.


You’ve styled quite a few celebrities. Who was the most fun to work with?

Music industry brides are fun because they bring an element of surprise to their events. They have great vision. So Jem may be one of my faves. Also Jami Miller married the lead singer from Hinder on Maui and we had such amazing chemistry. The wedding was gorgeous. 



What advice do you have for brides-to-be?


Do your homework: shop at two to three of the best stores you can afford and when you do fall in love -- stop looking!
 


Would you be up for doing a season two of the show?



And three and four and five! The show gets better. I'd like to show my expertise more and why I am the go-to person when it comes to planning the wedding, starting from the gown.