A little bit of a dream came true for me when I visited Linvina Bridal last Friday. I never had a prom myself. We don’t really do those in Holland, but I have always had a fascination with princess dresses and wedding dresses. Proms, balls and, galas are a Beijing thing and we joined two teens, Elise Fitzgerald with her mother and friend Nathalie Cheng (both attending WAB) on a fitting session for prom dresses, at Linlin Wu’s magical dress store located across from Utown mall.

Elise (left) Natalie (right)

To say we had fun was a understatement. Dresses where flying around and Wu had her hands full getting the teens into the sparkly prom frocks. I think the girls tried on over 30 dresses. Wu has evening and cocktail dresses ranging from RMB 300 to RMB 4500. The Linvina team handles each step from fitting, to designing to stitching the dresses, and all this is included in the dress price. I noticed  that Wu has a great eye for style and knew what fitted on each of the teens’ body type. Wu made us feel at home and welcomed us to dash around the store and simply try on each dress that sparkled our fancy.

Elise trying on a perfect twirl prom dress

One of the favorite dresses

I know that getting handmade dresses cut to size is something that would cost a arm and a leg in any country, but Linvina Bridal makes it super fun and affordable. I for one don’t want my toddler to turn into a teenager, but taking her princess dress shopping will be so much fun. I know that next ball season I’ll be acting out my prom dream and go to Wu to get a sparkly prom dress for myself. Add Linlin Wu on WeChat: linlin_china to fit in a appointment for dress shopping, and check out her website here.

A big contender for the girls was this dress

The red carpet dress had to be tried on!

Pictures: Pauline van Hasselt

We are continuing our comprehensive list of WeChat contacts you need to follow. We all know that there is literally no limit to what you can find through this essential app, but here a couple of our favorites that we think you should know. So without further ado, here’s part two!

Cheese

Got some cheese cravings? This guy delivers cheese to your door. Free shipping on orders above RMB 299. Add him on WeChat: CheeseGouvernor

Bakeshop

This shop bakes delicious bread, bagels, and cookies. We have to say that their chocolate cookies are to die for. Add them on WeChat: thebakeshop

Post Cards

I have seen many self made cards but MoniKards makes the cutest ones in town. For some original mail make sure to add her on WeChat: Mnka_LeBrn

Dresses

Need a fabulous dress for a gala? This lady has the goods. Have a look in her shop and try on some wedding gowns while you are there. Add her on WeChat: 532667243

Tours

Do you have family coming over that want to see the sights? Don’t want to join them? Or you have yet to see the wall. Mister Dong is not cheap but he speaks great English and is very pleasant to spend the day with. Add him on WeChat: Tom105780102

Books

This is one of my favorite stores, featuring kids books galore and there are always special deals for multi buys. Perfect for gifts and story time. Add on WeChat: dianayi2009

Cakes

I have tried and tested this amazing bakery and their celebration cakes are masterpieces that look amazing. Add on WeChat: forcakecom

Water

Feeling thirsty? This water company had great and most importantly safe water for adults and babies. Need some boxed MaiAqua water? Add them on WeChat: maiaquaservice

Wax

Don’t feel like leaving your home with a mustache? This lady comes to your home and takes away all of your unwanted hair. She is fast and clean. Add her on WeChat: anniewax111

TCM

My first Traditional Chinese Medicine session was with Shelley and she is great. I have even returned often since. She speaks English and her expertise comes highly recommended in the expat community. Add her on WeChat: 13439386197

Hair Dresser

Again a very highly recommended contact in the expat community. This hair expert is not only a joy to be with but does wonders with your hair. She sure fixed mine after I had done a bad job trying to do it myself. Add Pamela on WeChat: kassydihairstyle

Shunyi Sausage

Live in the Shunyi area and need some sausage and other meats? Balmain Gourmet delivers, and meats even arrive in a box with cold packs to keep it fresh. Add on WeChat: 18600039708

Hats

We are blessed with a famous hat lady that resides in Beijing. She not only has a fabulous hat shop but also does hat making workshops. Do you need a hat for a fancy party? Add Elisabeth Koch on WeChat: amazinghats

Bags and Shoes

Need some great shoes or a fancy bag? I have bought my share off this lady. Look forward to having your newsfeed flooded with footwear. Add on WeChat: emma_choi123

Creams

Creams for very special people, these potions smell delicious and this fabulous lady has a cream for every occasion. Add on WeChat: franhanshing

Housing Agent

Janice is another gem in Beijing, she has helped us countless times. She is a great agent who is never to busy to help. Add her on WeChat: cc839782787

Picture credit: pixabay and vendors