Nadia Williamson, Owner of NWLA & NWL Dresses
Nadia Williamson is a Canadian designer, an award-winning entrepreneur, a philanthropist and a romantic.
With an astounding eye for detail and a love of storytelling, Nadia began her career as a freelance costume designer in the Film and Television industry. At 19, mentored by some of Canada's most celebrated designers, she started as a buyer and five years later became the head of the department. From big screens at Cannes and TIFF to award-winning digital series and commercials, her work has now been seen around the world. She has dressed and worked side by side such notable stars as Ryan Reynolds, Anna Faris, Jeff Bridges, Jamie Fox, Maria Bello, Rufus Sewell as well as Kim Coates and Amy Matysio to name a few. In her late twenties, Nadia dove deeper into the world of fashion, took a break from Film and TV and graduated with a diploma in Fashion Design from Montreal’s Le Salle College. She continued to live and work in Montreal styling fashion and editorial shoots, sewing her own ready-to-wear line and dreaming her next move - which would be home.
Born and raised in Regina, Saskatchewan, this prairie girl decided to move west and connect with her roots. In December 2005, Williamson opened NWL, a contemporary women’s dress boutique. She was quickly rewarded remarkable success through a dedicated work ethic, healthy business instinct and her magnetic and luminous personality. In 2009, as the business grew, Williamson moved the shop into the historic Leader Building in downtown Regina and became one of the most notable bridal boutiques in the province. Over the last decade, NWL provided her with opportunities to develop the community through her support of numerous local business’ and events, her work with youth, as well as her charitable involvement, which includes the co-creation of The ‘Champagne’ series: A Cause for Fashion (benefiting The Arthritis Society, The Heart and Stroke Foundation, The Multiple Sclerosis Society, and The Autism Resource Centre) and her most recent endevor, Build Love for Habitat for Humanity. Nadia received the YWCA’s Young Woman of Distinction Award, has sat on a profusion of boards and in 2015, was titled the fifth female Chair of the Regina Chamber of Commerce board.
When Nadia opened NWL, she had a small collection of wedding and cocktail dresses. 13 years later, NWL is not only thriving, Nadia has now helped over 10,000 brides prepare for their special day. An elegantly curated collection of bridal, cocktail and special occasion, Nadia is known for her impeccable taste, stunning selection and personal touch. The NWL experience is brought to life by a team dedicated to creating the best possible experience for every client.
In 2018, Nadia had her own special day and married the man of her dreams in Los Angeles. Continuing to make her mark in bridal and grow her business once again, NWLA will open its doors, allowing Nadia the opportunity to share her passion and expertise with brides in LA and beyond. Welcome to NWLA.
Debra Shirley, Bridal Consultant at NWLA
Debra Shirley is a creative Bridal Stylist with many years of hands-on experience. She is also a Headwear Designer specializing in custom Wedding Veils for Brides, and period replica hats for film, television, and stage productions. Ms. Shirley attended Illinois Institute of the Arts in Chicago.
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Debra’s career took off when she was hired by Chicago's prestigious Ultimate Bride to be their in-house Milliner and Bridal Stylist. It was there that she honed her talents for designing beautifully constructed, one-of-a-kind, Bridal creations. Over the course of her 20 plus years residency, she earned the reputation in the bridal community of possessing not only the most exquisite craftsmanship in her art, but also of mastering warm, intuitive people skills required when working closely with Brides in choosing their dream wedding gown, and accessories. “ I love to help create a complete, and polished wedding day ensemble, that not only makes each bride look beautiful, but feel beautiful”. -Shirley
Debra has recently relocated from Chicago to Los Angeles and is very excited to be at NWLA. She hopes that her many years of bridal experience will add to the incredible reputation that Nadia Williamson has already established.
Just for fun… Debra has a collection of vintage clothing and also sells on Etsy. She is a co-host of Very Vintage Podcast with her friend Rachel who still lives in Chicago.
Debra offers a Day of Wedding Dresser Service. She arrives on the day of your wedding with a calm disposition, a keen eye for attention to detail and armed with an extensive sewing kit in the event that a wedding garment needs an emergency repair. She also comes equipped with a “comfort kit” which includes toiletries, a mini first aid kit and various items that aid in personal comfort. Debra will press and ready garments for both the Bride and Groom and attendants on both sides, to insure a smooth wedding day dressing process.
Ann Costigan, Bridal Consultant at NWLA
Ann Costigan is a native Californian with an extended history working in the bridal industry.
Her love of art and fashion made her the perfect fit for Saks 5th Ave for over ten years. She has many years working with designers such as - Mira Zwillinger, Naeem Khan, Reem Acra, Berta, Oscar De la Renta, Carolina Herrera to name a few, as well as wedding planners such as Mindy Wiese and Meridee Wahl.
Her love of people and trained creative eye is what makes her stand out as a bridal gown consultant, Understanding the power of expression in clothing combined with her masterful ability to listen she creates an amazing fun experience selecting the perfect gown. Ann feels her brides are modern, contemporary and classic all at once. No small feat. "It's an honor to be part of their journey in finding the special ONE!"