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The Unique Wedding Wear Option You Didn't Know Existed

Updated: Mar 18


Smiling woman in a white jacket and blue patterned scarf in a decorated indoor setting with floral details in the background.
Written by Kendra W. Houston | Artist & Fashion Designer
Kendra specializes in creating one-of-a-kind clothing items by hand-painting custom designs on them. She works with clients looking for something truly unique to wear for their weddings, charity galas, and other special occasions.

Hand holding a paintbrush creates silvery floral patterns on translucent white fabric, creating elegant designs.

Q&A with the Artist


The Casual Reply owner, artist, & fashion designer Kendra W. Houston talks custom hand-painted clothing and accessories for your wedding.


Smiling man in a beige blazer with brown fern patterns stands by green plants in a garden. Wearing a blue shirt, relaxed and cheerful mood.

What is The Casual Reply?


The Casual Reply is a studio offering wedding wear that's custom hand-painted especially for you. I provide bespoke hand-painted designs on clothing & accessories, to help you celebrate with a truly one-of-a-kind look for your special day.


Get a custom hand-painted wedding accessory of your own


If you’d like to make your own wedding look even better with a custom hand-painted piece, I can help! Let’s create something that's 100% you.





What would something like this add to my wedding?


This is a wonderful opportunity to turn part of your outfit into something meaningful in a way that perfectly matches your personality and event. For anyone looking to add elements that are less cookie cutter, more your own, custom hand-painted details can transform a couple's wedding into a moment that feels "so us."



What's the process like?


My goal is to make the entire custom experience easy and fun, using my expertise to guide you through decisions and help you be a part of every personalized detail. I absolutely love getting to show part of your unique story though artistry, bringing to life a vision you thought could only exist in your head.


A person examines a white dress with hand-painted floral designs, in a room with soft lighting. The dress features lace sleeves and button details.

I see beauty in every love story that finds its way to my studio, and am forever excited by the creative possibilities they hold. I always look forward to welcoming new couples and bringing your wedding outfit dreams to life!


Tell me about a favorite piece you've created.


Here are testimonials from a few of my loveliest past projects. It was SO special to be a part of these moments!


"Kendra is such a joy to work with! Extremely talented and personable, her creative work was AMAZING at our wedding. My spouse's 82 year old grandmother was the flower girl, and we needed a very special dress for this expression of love. We were all blown away by the quality and amazing attention to detail that Kendra put into that wonderful garment. All I can say is that Grandma's entrance as the flower girl was something we will never be able to forget. Thank you Kendra for the beautiful work you do." - Richard D.


"Kendra was great to work with, and her custom painting work is incredible. I commissioned a custom, hand-painted tie for my father as a wedding gift of a picture of him and I. She painted it beautifully and it made a wonderful, memorable gift. Kendra was responsive and easy to work with. Highly recommend!" - Liz B.


"We wanted blazers that were fun and different for everyone. What we got was something way more than what we expected. Thank you, Kendra, for turning a simple request into something elevated and unique for a day of pure joy." -Fernando N.


Two men in beige blazers with colorful leaf patterns laugh together outdoors. The setting is lush and green, creating a joyful mood.

I've never heard of this before! What do couples typically want?


I can paint on anything! The most popular items for brides, grooms, other celebrators, and gifts include:

 

  • Tie, pocket square, or suit pocket embellishment

  • Wrap, scarf, or blazer/suit coat

  • Shoes

  • Hat, veil, or other hair/head accessory

  • Detachable piece or 2nd look for ceremony or reception

  • Ring bearer pillow or other ceremony accessory


The designs are bespoke, so I can hand-paint whatever feels perfect for you and your day. From florals to portraiture, written inscriptions to animals, and anything in between or beyond, there are no limits!


Collage with wedding venue, man in fern-patterned blazer, grey cat, plant textures, color swatches, and planning notes.

A unique way to include something personal in your wedding wear


Custom hand-painted means anything is possible. Have a very specific combination of flowers? Is there a special animal, place, or even words you'd love to see incorporated? This is where we can make it happen!





What quality and durability can I expect?


I use specialized paint that is lasting and durable (including waterproof and washable) so you end up with an enduring heirloom piece. Everything done in The Casual Reply studio is painted completely freehand with paintbrushes and fabric paint--meaning just like original artwork in a gallery, your item truly can't be repeated.


A hand paints yellow mushrooms beside green leaves on a linen wedding dress. The brush adds details to create a natural and peaceful scene.

I'm interested! What's important for me to know?


The next step is to get in touch with me! Here's some more information to help you get started:

 

  • The Casual Reply is based out of my cozy home studio in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. I offer both virtual and in-person consultations, and have worked with clients world-wide.


  • This is a small boutique studio with long lead times (can't rush those intricate details!)--so spots fill up fast. I encourage you to get in touch with interest or questions, and to sign up for The Casual Reply email newsletter to stay connected, be inspired, and learn more. (thecasualreply.com/newsletter)


  • If you are getting a custom gown or suit made and want to include hand-painted details on your piece, I can collaborate with your designer, allowing all of us to work together to create a cohesive look.


  • The price range for smaller pieces like ties and shoes start at $450. Larger projects such as suits and gowns start at $1k.


A decorative bow with a sailboat and sea landscape painted on it. Features blue and white colors with hydrangea patterns on a white background.


If you’re considering unique custom designs for your event or have a special story to tell, let’s collaborate to create something extraordinary together!


Woman with braided hair in white dress holds a blue scarf with abstract coastal patterns. Neutral background, calm mood.

Want more tips for your wedding (and other) outfits?


Sign up for my email newsletter! The people and events I create for are stunningly inspirational, inside and out. Discover what unique possibilities are in store for you--















Woman smiling indoors, wearing a white jacket and blue patterned scarf. Floral arrangement in the background creates a warm, festive mood.

About Kendra


Kendra W. Houston is a visual artist and fashion designer who specializes in customizing clothing items by painting one-of-a-kind designs on them by hand.

 

She is based out of Pawtucket, Rhode Island, and appreciates contributing to the slow fashion movement in one of the birthplaces of American industrial textile mills. She works out of a cozy home studio, assisted by her pet rabbit Tiverton.


Kendra's designs are detailed and immersive, often reflecting things that hold special significance to the wearer. The name of her brand, The Casual Reply, comes from a line in a John Denver song: “talk to God and listen to the casual reply.”

 

Each one of her items is a handcrafted work of fine art that is nonetheless intended to be used and worn as an entirely functional clothing item. Continuing and meaningfully adding to the story of a garment using unconventional, personal themes and designs is a source of true joy for Kendra in pursuing this calling.

 

She regularly participates as a featured designer in charity fashion shows as well as juried art events throughout New England.

 
 
 

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