Like dolls on an assembly line, models rotate to make-shift hair and makeup stations.  Two girls jokingly squabble over whose turn it is to go next.  All the while, photographers capture the candor of the backstage prep happening in the “Golden Room” – a banquet space inside one of Michigan’s major bridal show venues. Jenna Huntley’s spot is near the grand curtain, which gives way to the runway that will soon house her collection.  She’s surrounded by clear garment bags, which see through to elegant ivory, white and sparkle. Huntley instructs the models out of their comfortable flats and into high-heels.  She helps them step into structured petticoats for a pre-show catwalk through.  “You can lean on me,” she says.  Petticoats must be held up at the sides, not in the front.  She demonstrates the unflattering effect otherwise.  The models walk the runway as Huntley supervises and fluffs trains.  Showtime is near. Huntley, 23, has been designing for just three short years, but she’s stitching with over 30 years of experience behind her.  Huntley’s mother-in-law is a successful bridal and sportswear designer overseas.  She and Huntley design together and are now looking to branch out to the U.S. “She wanted me to start early,” Huntley says. Jenna in White was opened in November, 2013.  Huntley owns the bridal shop with her husband, a scientist at the University of Michigan.  Before the shop opened, Huntley took in-home appointments.  She never failed… read more →