Behind the Scenes: Jinjara Mitchell Shares What Went Into Creating Her Custom Anne Barge Gown

By now, we're sure you've seen Jinjara Mitchell and Jordan Connor's gorgeous beach wedding. The acting duo said "I do" among family, friends, and loved ones on September 4, 2021, at Long Beach Lodge Resort in Tofino, British Columbia. From the decor to the beachy locale and sweet wedding vows, everything was nothing short of perfect for their big day. What's more, and one of our favorite details from the entire wedding, was the fashion. Jordan donned a black Lazio tuxedo from Suitsupply, but the true breakout star was Jinjara, who wore a custom ballgown designed by popular bridal label, Anne Barge.

If you're anything like us, you probably can't get over how stunning and ethereal Jinjara's gown looked—and for those wondering how she created her dress, brace yourselves because you're in luck! We spoke with Jinjara and Shawne Jacobs, creative director and owner of Anne Barge, about everything that went into making this custom bridal masterpiece.

For Jinjara, choosing to work with Shawne was a decision that came naturally. "I chose to work with Anne Barge because their dresses capture a certain timeless aspect of wedding gowns which I really adore. Their dresses are beautifully designed and have that feminine quality I really wanted as well," share the actress. "I’ve always dreamed of wearing a dreamy, flowy, and feminine dress, and I couldn’t have imagined working with any other [designer]."

After an initial visit to the designer's boutique in New York City, prior to the pandemic, Jinjara and Shawne immediately began the process of designing a unique, and timeless look. "I first was connected with Anne Barge through e-mail, and from there I flew to their shop in New York with my sister, where we tried on a couple of their gowns and pieced together different aspects of my favorite dresses to create my own unique wedding dress," reveals Mitchell.

Both the designer and actress agree that the salon visit was an integral part of the entire process. "We like to meet with the bride to ask several key questions: Where are you getting married? What type of wedding are you envisioning? What season are you getting married in and where? How many guests will attend?" says Shawne. "All of these details play into the decision of the dress. [And Jinjara] wanted a dress that was formal but not too formal."

Brides, take note! From the very beginning, Jinjara communicated her expectations and desires for the perfect gown, and her clear vision paid off! Following a few virtual follow-up meetings and fittings, the Anne Barge team delivered a one-of-a-kind, showstopping look. "My dress was more beautiful than the one I envisioned in my own head!" the bride gushes.

In addition to effortless teamwork and concise communication, Jinjara and Shawne had fun throughout the dress journey. They also entered the process open-minded and excited to create a dream look—something Shawne believes all brides should embrace when finding or designing the perfect wedding dress.

"Keep an open mind while shopping. Some of my favorite moments are when I ask a bride to try something on for me. Perhaps it’s not at all what she thinks she wants, but the moment she tries it on, her eyes light up," says the Anne Barge creative director. "Don't be afraid to try new shapes and silhouettes during your search."