Inspiring Lives Magazine Spring 2017: Issue 4 | Page 50

DESIGNER TUX BY EVA DIXON
Jess’s custom, Rat Pack-inspired suit was created
by Eva Dixon, designer of I DO Designs by Eva and
owner of Once Upon a Bride and Groom. Dixon has
over 17 years of experience in bridal wear and has been
sewing and designing since she was a child. She offers a
full-service experience encompassing everything from
bridal gowns and accessories to suit rentals.
Dixon’s professional achievements are even more
remarkable, given that she has recently overcome some
serious obstacles—she spent months in the hospital last
year recovering from an intestinal blockage, then went
on to suffer a heart attack and stroke resulting from
post-surgery complications. She hasn’t let health issues
slow her down though, Dixon is incredibly dedicated to
her clients, going so far as to bring her sewing machine
to the hospital to have fittings with brides. “You end up
on the ground and you come up swinging,” she says.
This determination is also evident in her commitment
to ensure that every bride (or groom) looks and feels
their best on their special day. As a designer, Dixon
works closely with each bride to understand her vi-
sion of her special day. Every bride has unique needs,
whether petite, tall, plus size or even those dealing
with concerns caused by medical issues. Dixon enjoys
working to create gowns that will make each bride feel
fabulous on her big day.
As an experienced industry professional, Dixon has
a wealth of knowledge. She educates brides on the
frequently complex process of selecting and
purchasing a wedding gown. Her #1 piece of
advice? Start early. Dixon is happy to help
brides simplify the planning process by
offering exceptional service, from one-
on-one appointments to in-home
fittings and delivery, to ensure
that every bride truly feels like
a princess on her special day.
Branas and I were among the 100 women chosen to
be featured in Dr. Shellie Hipsky’s Common Threads
trilogy that shares success secrets of empowering
women. After reading about her, I knew I wanted to
meet her.
In March 2016, I had my opportunity at Dr.
Shellie’s Inspiring Lives Mastermind in Pittsburgh,
Pa. It was a day packed full of powerful women speak-
ing about their lives, goals, and missions. When Bra-
nas was about to take the stage, I noticed she radiated
joy, confidence, and enthusiasm. As she spoke, her
passion for helping women was infectious. Her vibe,
contagious.
Branas actually
“Jess taught me to love
teaches one of her
who you are and be strong,
secrets to having
such an inviting
no matter the situation.”
presence in her
—Leesa Miscevich Kassler
first relationship
book, Seeking Her,
Knowing You. Part of her attracting energy is that
when she speaks to someone, she is absolutely focused
on them 100%.
In the fall of 2016, Branas released her second
best-seller, Zero to Ninety. It goes through the first 90
days of dating and building a strong foundation in that
important time. Not one to sit down and say “that’s
good enough,” Branas is far from done sharing her ex-
periences. She is ready to tackle a third book and has
many more goals for 2017.
“I think a documentary about dating and relation-
ships is next,” she said excitedly. “It would be a really
cool project. It’s such a big topic to tackle.”
Over the past year, I actually applied her relation-
ship advice with my boyfriend of four years. The
lessons resonate with anyone who wants to do
better in life and love if you’re willing to listen.
Branas said, “At the end of the day, on the
inside, we all have the same organs. The dif-
ferences, the rest is just in our head. We all
go through similar experiences.”
It’s also important to note, Branas
lives what she teaches. At the Inspiring
Lives Magazine launch last fall, she was
a stand-out star in the room—and not
just on the dance floor! That evening, I
noticed that she could start a conversation
with anyone and ended up exchanging
phone numbers, posing for photos, and making new
connections every single time.