A moment with ‘The Sposa Group’

ABIA meets Madina George of this Sydney bridal boutique

Rachel K Photography

Thanks to many years in the fashion and bridal industries Madina George, of Sydney wedding dress boutique The Sposa Group, understands that choosing a wedding gown is not an everyday shopping trip.

“We offer a complete bridal experience, including made-to-order gowns, off-the-rack and sample purchases, demi-couture customisations, in-house alterations and express ordering,” Madina explains.

These services combine with the store’s display of more than 300 internationally-designed wedding gowns, offered in a comprehensive range of silhouettes and styles, to both simplify and elevate wedding dress shopping for brides.

ABIA sat down with Madina to chat about wedding dress trends, her favourite bridal gown label and the luxurious choices she aims to offer her brides.

Emilio B Photography

Tell us about your bridal store and wedding services.

For more than 10 years, we’ve been helping brides from Sydney, across Australia and around the world find the gown that captures their heart. A wedding gown is more than just a dress, it’s the beginning of a beautiful chapter, and we’re so grateful to be part of that story.

Our three-level bridal boutique in Leichhardt showcases more than 300 gowns, handpicked from renowned international designers. Crafted from the most luxurious fabrics, there’s a style to suit every bride, whether drawn to timeless elegance, soft minimalism or the drama of a show-stopping ballgown.

From made-to-order gowns to beautiful off-the-rack styles and rare sample treasures, we offer options for every timeline, and for brides dreaming of something completely unique, our demi-couture service allows for thoughtful customisations that can turn a bride’s vision into something unforgettable.

Our team of dedicated bridal stylists — fondly known as The Sposa Angels — guide and support with warmth, honesty and heart, and take the time to understand each bride’s vision, share expert advice, and curate a selection of gowns that reflect her story and style. We’re committed to making every moment of the wedding dress journey as magical and meaningful as the day itself.

How did you get started in the wedding industry?

I’ve been drawn to fashion for as long as I can remember, but it was a move from my home in Russia to New Zealand, two decades ago, that marked the beginning of my journey in the bridal industry. While in New Zealand, I began working with the internationally-respected bridal brand Demetrios. Their commitment to quality, design and service aligned perfectly with my values, and our relationship has continued ever since.

Today, I run my Sydney bridal boutique with the same passion that first brought me into this industry. I work closely with brides from all backgrounds to help them find a gown that reflects their style, suits their celebration and makes them feel confident on their wedding day, whether it’s a relaxed, intimate ceremony or a formal event. For me, it’s always been about more than the dress. It’s about listening, understanding and creating an experience that feels personal and considered.

Image courtesy The Sposa Group Sydney

Emilio B Photography

Where are you based and what locations do you service?

The Sposa Group Sydney store is located in Leichhardt, just 10 minutes from Sydney’s CBD, where our elegant three-level boutique showcases more than 300 designer wedding gowns from globally-renowned labels, such as Demetrios.

What made you decide to open The Sposa Group in Sydney?

I opened the Sydney store in 2012 in response to growing demand in NSW and Sydney for a wider variety of luxury bridal wear. Brides were shopping from boutique to boutique, searching for every possible silhouette and style, so we decided to open a store with a large collection of bridal gowns, bringing all styles of dresses together under one roof.

We offer a complete bridal experience, including made-to-order gowns, off-the-rack and sample purchases, demi-couture customisations, in-house alterations and express ordering. Every bride is paired with a dedicated personal stylist who guides and supports her right through to the final fitting. Our amazing in-house alterations team ensures a seamless and stress-free experience and brides can also book VIP appointments for a more private, elevated visit, and complete their look with our carefully-curated selection of veils, jewellery and accessories.

Rachel K Photography

What is your preferred wedding dress brand, and why?

We proudly showcase Demetrios in our boutique because they represent the perfect blend of timeless elegance and modern artistry. Demetrios offers more than 40 years of expert craftsmanship with gowns that range from classic to couture, and are known for their luxurious fabrics and detailed finishes. The label allows us to offer brides a diverse and stunning collection that caters to every style and vision.

How have you seen bridal fashion trends change over the years?

When I started in the industry more than 25 years ago fashion trends were quite similar to what we see today. Minimalistic gowns with structure and ruched elements were popular, alongside 3D flowers, corsets and two-piece looks. Drapery was often used in bodices and skirts, with corsets and bodices featuring elongated V-points. The colour palette mainly included white, ivory and champagne in non-sheer fabrics.
Later, designs became lighter in layers and more playful. Nude mesh started appearing in sleeves, illusion panels and sheer backs, creating a bare-skin effect with delicate detailing. Gowns evolved to be more sheer and delicate, incorporating lingerie-inspired elements like bra-like necklines and corsetry.
Princess-style ball gowns underwent a full transformation, from ruching and minimal corsets to intricate beaded lace and voluminous skirts. Waistlines rose for a period but have since returned to longer, pointed shapes. Plunging necklines have faded, replaced by edgier cuts featuring high peaks and higher, or even completely straight, centres.

Images T-One Image

What trends are you seeing in overseas bridal fashion at the moment?

Right now, we're seeing a beautiful blend of classic and bold trends from overseas. Think delicate 3D flowers, dramatic capes and long corsets with strong boning. Baroque-inspired balloon skirts and sleeves add a romantic flair, while pearl-beaded chains adorn necklines elegantly. Jackets and crop tops paired with skirts or pants offer a modern twist, and intricate mini dresses incorporate many of these details. Lingerie-inspired corsetry, open lace-up backs and sheer lace skirts bring softness and sensuality, complemented by large floral prints, removable trains, asymmetrical collars and flowing scarves or neck drapes for a truly unique bridal look.

How can brides highlight, or distract from, certain features with their choice of bridal gown?

While bridal trends can be exciting for every bride, understanding what suits her proportions is the key to finding an unforgettable wedding gown. Our wide variety of styles and silhouettes allow brides to try everything and discover what truly makes them feel incredible. Our ‘Angels’ are highly experienced, with a keen eye for how a gown flatters the body, so can assist with any concerns and adjusting accordingly. Finding a dream dress is not about hiding features, but highlighting the best ones.

T-One Image

Usra Studios

What makes your bridal boutique unique?

We’re proud to offer a large collection of wedding dress styles and silhouettes, but what truly sets us apart — and what our brides always come back to tell us — is the experience our team offers.
At The Sposa Group, our service goes far beyond finding a dress. Each of our stylists brings not only expertise and a sharp eye for detail, but a warmth and positivity that brides instantly feel. The energy in our boutique is light, fun and filled with genuine connection. We create a space where great conversation flows easily, nerves disappear and every moment ensures a bride feels surrounded by friends who truly care.
Our team’s infectious personalities and heartfelt approach are what make the journey so memorable. We’re with our brides from the first fitting to the final try-on, offering honest guidance, open communication and unwavering support every step of the way.
Brides often tell us they didn’t just find their dream gown, they found comfort, laughter, reassurance and a team that made them feel completely seen and celebrated. And that’s what we strive to give, every single day.

How would you describe the brides you connect with the most?

We genuinely connect with all of our brides, but the brides we connect with most are those who value a personal, heartfelt experience. They’re looking for more than just a dress, they want to feel supported, understood and uplifted throughout their entire journey, and that’s exactly what we love to give.