Finding your dream gown is harder than you might think when you first become engaged. During all of the excitement, you step into the bridal shop with your bridesmaids and honorary girls by your side. You begin combing through the dresses in shades of ivory, cream, eggshell, and classic white. Never did you realize there were so many shades of white! Before long – they all start looking the same, and all you want is a tall glass of champagne!
So, how do you find that perfect dress? With the multitude of beautiful and dazzling options nowadays, one can definitely understand why someone would get overwhelmed. These tips are to help you choose amongst the Hayley Paige or Stella York of your dreams and live to tell about it!
Research beforehand.
Finding dresses that fit your body type, theme and budget beforehand makes not only the sticker shock easier, but it also introduces you to the different styles and looks of today’s bridal gown. By filling out your Pinterest board before you go, you can find lots of options and know a little more about what you’re looking for in the bridal shop. You will attain your perfect fit as you shop, but knowing what neckline, shape, and style you desire helps rule out contenders and helps you keep your focus while shopping.
photo by Hans and Nicole Photography
Know your measurements.
Become familiar with the bridal size!! Many dresses that might usually fit you in department stores will have to go a size up depending on measurements. This is because the material and delicate intricacies of the gowns require specific alterations most of the time. Most every bridal gown I have encountered runs small, which means every bride usually encounters the same shock at feeling larger than what she is. Take this in stride and always fit your gown to your body type, even if you plan on losing weight. Your seamstress can always take the dress in, but cannot always add fabric if need be.
photo by Megan Bennett Photography
Plan ahead for hidden costs.
Like any other large purchase, they are usually accompanied by costs you may not have planned on in the first place. This includes shoes, veils, hairpieces, and other accessories that go along with your dress, as well as any alterations that may need to be done. By being clear and honest about your budget, you can find a perfect option within your price point rather than going in blind to the store.
Find an awesome bridal salon.
You’ve done your research, you know what style you’re looking for and you’re ready to dive in! Check the ratings of your local bridal shops. Get referrals from your married friends! Often times bridal shops may have great dresses but terrible customer service. Just know before you go what you are walking into so you don’t waste time making appointments with shops that don’t have what you’re looking for.
photo by Nathan Mitchell Photography
Make an appointment!
Finally, if you are planning to find your dream dress along with other guests to accompany you, it is best to make an appointment. This not only makes for a smoother shopping experience but ensures that you have proper customer service during the appointed time. By carving out a particular time slot for you and your girls, you can plan a fun get together for brunch or maybe lunch afterwards as well, and it lets everyone know ahead of time where to be!
There are many stressful but exciting experiences during your wedding planning – and dress shopping is nothing short of one of them! By planning ahead for your preferences, sizing, body types, budget and best ladies, you can ensure the experience is an organized one with no surprises…other than potentially finding THE dress. I hope these tips help you in your quest for the dress but if you need more help, please feel free to contact me. I can’t wait to talk about the details!
Featured image by Emma Weiss Photography
