What started with a few handmade special occasion dresses for friends and family in California caught on in a big way. And by the late '80s Watters was a household word in the bridal industry.

After 20 years, Vatana Watters continues to be at the heart of the company and is passionately involved in setting the design tone. Her inspirations emanate from her heritage, experience on both coasts and desire to reflect the spirit of the times. Vatana recognizes that design is where it starts, but not where it ends. The other hats she wears help the company to continue to be appreciated for being a cut above for quality and responsiveness.

Vatana is married to Steve, a landscape designer and together they have a daughter, Sydney, who loves fashion and can be seen on the Watters website modeling the Flower Girls & Junior Bridesmaids collection. Vatana is charmed by many things, vegetables are not yet among them.

Born in Thailand and moved to the U.S at age 7

Schooled and inspired by living in New York and Los Angeles

Graduated from Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in 1985

Moved to Dallas in 1986 to pursue her own custom bridesmaids business with her sister

In 1986 Neiman Marcus became the first national retailer to carry Watters designs

Wtoo line was introduced in 1999 to offer more contemporary, yet affordable designs

Launched Watters Brides in 2002 to fill a niche for well-designed, attractively-priced bridal gowns

Completed the bridal party with Flower Girls & Junior Bridesmaids in 2005 – a collection for junior bridesmaids and flower girls

Celebrated 20th year with 5 commemorative special occasion styles called Collection 20

Debi: 1999, 1998, 1997, 1995, 1994, 1993
Debi nominee: 2006, 2003
Bridal Buyer Award for Best Photographic Campaign, 2002
Wedding Dresses Magazine Award for Bridesmaids Dresses, 2003