Apparel design and development alum Mara Dietrich’s creativity, talent and vision set her apart in the fashion industry.
Upon graduation, she founded Mara Marie Bridal in her Minneapolis studio apartment. Her brand has since grown, and she celebrated her flagship boutique’s grand opening in the heart of London in February 2024, servicing brides from all over the world.
With a focus on bespoke design, Dietrich’s custom-made gowns and accessories showcase her exceptional technical skill and carefully considered details, providing each bride with a unique luxury experience. With a dedication to customer service honed through years of retail management, she approaches each bride with humility and kindness.
Dietrich moved to London in 2021 to pursue her master’s in business administration from University of the Arts London. Since, Mara Marie Bridal has been featured in various international publications such as Style Me Pretty, Magnolia Rouge and Wedding Sparrow.
She is receiving international accolades for her work, including being named one of WedVibes’ Top 13 Bridal Designers in the United Kingdom. She was awarded the Best Custom Dressmaker by Minnesota Bride Magazine in 2020 and 2021. Her designs have been featured on the covers of Mpls.St.Paul Magazine and Minnesota Bride.
Dietrich, originally from River Falls, is aiming to continue her international expansion and exposure by showcasing her gowns in five boutiques across Europe by 2025. Within five years, she plans to acquire a second retail flagship in Minneapolis.
Fellow alum Michelle Schlung (’15), design operations manager at Jockey, nominated Dietrich for the Trailblazer Award. Dietrich designed Schlung’s wedding gown in 2022.
“I had the pleasure of experiencing Mara’s talent firsthand. It was nothing short of magical. Mara’s passion for design and commitment to excellence were evident even in her undergrad. She is a shining example of what a UW-Stout alum can achieve,” Schlung said.
Dietrich is honored to receive the Trailblazer Award and thanks the Alumni Association and “my friend and classmate Michelle for this nomination,” she said.
Dietrich began her college career at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles. After a semester, she decided it was not the right choice for her and transferred to UW-Stout.
“Stout made a large impact on my career and my place in my career field. Gaining my education from Stout inspired me to dream big, think outside the box and gave me the skills needed to make my mark in the fashion industry.
“I hope that my story can inspire current and future students that with determination, a dream and hard work Stout students have the skills to showcase their work on a global scale,” Dietrich said.
Dietrich believes that earning her degree from UW-Stout was one of the best decisions she has made, giving her a well-rounded education; opportunities to join student organizations, such as Silhouettes Fashion Show and Stout Retail Society; gaining experience in two internships prior to graduation; and studying abroad at the London College of Fashion.
“These experiences inspired me to dream big and encouraged me to pursue my own company.”
To current students, she said, “The fashion industry is not for the faint of heart. It is a tough industry to break into, but the skills you acquire at Stout prepare you for life post-college.
“Trust in the skills and practices that are taught to you and have confidence to apply for jobs that seem out of reach. There is an extensive alumni network around the world that is available to support and guide you.”
