I Want My Mother's Dress To Match The Napkins: Funny Stories and Serious Advice for Looking Your Best at Your Child's Wedding (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781448673681)

Barbara Coolidge Tibbetts is considered by many designers and manufacturers alike, as the authority in the country on fashions for mothers of the bride and groom. In 1991 Barbara, along with her daughter Terrie Tibbetts Martin, opened T. Carolyn, a unique store specializing in mothers of the bride and groom fashions. Together, this dynamic duo has been called "Houston's Grande Dames of fashion for mothers at the wedding" by the Houston Chronicle. Having participated in hundreds of weddings as a musician, Barbara has witnessed firsthand what really happens at a wedding. This book was inspired when it became apparent that there was a myriad of misinformation being passed on to mothers, which affected what they should wear. It became increasingly apparent that mothers needed an advocate to bring reason to the whole selection process. For over 18 years Barbara has helped thousands of mothers find that perfect dress for that special occasion. Over the course of the years she has heard stories that are humorous, poignant, and unbelievable. Using these as lessons, she set out to author a book that would be entertaining as well as informative. Barbara's childhood was spent on the island of Trinidad, West Indies where her parents were missionaries. She attended the prestigious St. Andrews Private School. At the age of 15 her parents returned to the United States. Barbara showed musical talent from an early age and when she enrolled at Anderson University in Indiana she declared a major in music. In 1960 she married her childhood sweetheart, Owen, whom she had met while living in Trinidad. His father was a ship captain and had been transferred to Trinidad where they met. She continued her education and graduated from the University of Tulsa School of Music in 1963 with a Bachelor of Music Education Degree. Having traveled to many parts of the world and attended weddings both stateside and abroad, she has an understanding of various cultural and traditional elements. In 1986 Barbara, along with her daughter, Terrie, started an import company, International Fine Leather Co., specializing in exotic leather accessories. Having acquired invaluable experience and insight into the world of importing and fashion, the mother/daughter team saw the need for a store which catered to mothers of the bride and groom. 18 years later they have established an unparalleled reputation for being the source nationally for mothers of the bride and groom.