But to also see her wearing her grandmother’s wedding dress was something so spectacular.

The mother and daughter team took part in the bridal expo fundraiser hosted by the Friends of the Athenium Theatre on Saturday September 15.

The event showcased the evolution of bridal wear through the generations.

“The whole day was to look like a real wedding, we wanted to simulate as much as possible,” said committee president Virginia Stewart.

“When I walked into the theatre on Saturday, my eyes teared up. It looked better than a wedding,” said Ms Stewart.

Despite a slow start to ticket sales, the high tea was sold out to 120 guests. Many came to see their living memories paraded.

“Getting their wedding dress out of the box again, that’s the first time they’ve done that since their wedding,” said Ms Stewart.

Each gown was modeled by the high school aged descendant of the previous owner, with one notable exception. Bernadette Burcher wore her own dress.

“I was the last one to come out, and I came down dancing to I Knew The Bride When She Used To Rock and Roll. That really got the crowd going,” said the 69-year-old.

Aside from the veil – which was loaned and never returned many years ago – Mrs Burcher has retained the bouquet and dress since she walked down the aisle 48 years ago.

“I’ve threatened before that when I’ve been married for 50 years, I’ll wear it all day and go down to IGA to do my shopping.”