In the heart of Charleston’s historic French Quarter, House of Maganda is a tribute to love, resilience, and the artistry of custom bridal design. Founded by Stephanie Brown, a visionary designer, and U.S. Army veteran, the atelier is more than just a bridal studio—it’s where brides’ creative visions come to life, stories are sewn into every stitch, and beauty is more than a concept—it’s a personal mission.
The name Maganda, derived from the Tagalog word for “beauty,” is a reflection of Stephanie’s Filipino heritage, her unwavering faith, and her passion for honoring life’s most meaningful moments. Growing up in a Filipino household, Stephanie was captivated by the world of fashion and pageantry, watching Miss Universe alongside her mother and sister, she analyzed trends and imagined how each gown was made. But it wasn’t until after her time in the Army that she truly embraced her calling. Inspired by her 6’2” husband, Shannon Brown, she began sewing custom pieces for him, sparking a creative journey that would lead her to study fashion and move to Hawaii–where her husband was stationed. While there, she honed her craft under Project Runway Season 13 finalist Kini Zamora, refining her skills and developing an eye for unique designs.
Recognizing a need in the bridal industry and inspired by both her love story and passion for design, Stephanie officially launched House of Maganda in 2017, dedicating her work to the modern bride who wants a voice heard through fashion. “I want brides to have their voice, and I am here to tell their story,” she says. Her process is deeply personal: brides can schedule a consultation to select a design, personalize a family heirloom, or create a gown entirely from scratch. This spring, she will introduce her signature muslin line, offering brides a blank canvas to try on silhouettes and begin their custom journey in a truly hands-on way.
The atelier’s Charleston debut in November 2024 marks a new chapter—one filled with family, community, and purpose. Stephanie’s young daughter, Aria, plays a special role in House of Maganda, inspiring designs and even having her own mini sewing station in the heart of the studio. With her mother’s unwavering faith and her family’s entrepreneurial spirit as guiding forces, Stephanie developed resilience in both fashion and life.
But perhaps the most profound dedication of all is to Shannon, Stephanie’s late husband, whose memory lives on in every gown she creates. “We will sew love and beauty into every gown,” she says. “Your love will continue to flow through all who are in love, and always be what keeps people together.”
Beyond bridal gowns, Stephanie extends her artistry to mother-of-the-bride dresses, heirloom redesigns, bridesmaids, and even anniversary and birthday pieces—proving that love, like fashion, evolves but never fades. Her biggest mentor, Making the Cut Season 2 winner Andrea Pitter-Campbell, once told her, “Don’t take your foot off the gas.” Stephanie has taken that advice to heart, driving forward with an unwavering mission: “I’m doing it for all of those who can’t.”
At House of Maganda, every bride’s love story is honored, every gown is a masterpiece, and every stitch is a tribute to beauty, resilience, and the people who inspire us most.
