Finding Your Wedding Gown
Finding your dream gown can be a little overwhelming, but it's also one of the most fun parts about wedding planning! (In our opinion anyway, though we may be biased.) Searching for your gown is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and you may never forget the feeling you get when you finally try on the one. However, there are SO many different gowns to choose from, and such a wide price range. We want you to enjoy this experience as much as possible, so here's some tips to take into consideration during your search.
1. Start your search 9 months prior
A common mistake many brides make, is that they don't realize how long it takes to order their gown once they've found it. Designer gowns should be ordered six to nine months in advance to ensure that there is time for delivery and alterations. You won't want to end up with a hefty rush fee, so plan accordingly.
2. Refer to your budget
Make sure you've decided on a adequate budget for your gown before you start searching. Let your bridal consultant know this budget, and try your hardest to not try anything on that costs more then you want to spend. There's nothing worse than trying on a gown and falling in love with it, only to find out that it's out of your price range. Remember to factor in tax, shipping, and alterations as well.
3. Narrow down the style
You may find that you resonate with many different types of gown styles, but try to really figure out what it is that you're looking for. Familiarize yourself with different silhouettes and browse online to get a feel for what's out there. There are six broad categories: ball gown, empire, A-line, sheath, fit-and-flare, and mermaid.
4. Figure out what works best for you
You're now familiar with the styles, but you may find that what you thought you were looking for is not what you resonate with while you're trying on, and that's okay. Try on all the different style gowns at first, and you'll quickly find what works best for your shape and silhouette.
5. If possible, schedule on a week-day
Bridal boutiques can be quite hectic on weekends, and in order to get the best possible service, we recommend making your appointment on a weekday. Your bridal consultant can be focused on helping you, and you won't be as rushed or distracted.
6. Be honest with your bridal consultant
No matter what type of shopper you are, your bridal consultant knows her gowns best. She may have recommendations that you're not originally open to, but you just might end up loving them. She'll know the fabrics, silhouettes, designers, and all the ins-and-outs. The more honest you are with her about which gowns your loving and which you're not liking, the more helpful she can be. Constructive criticism is key for narrowing down dresses.
7. Remember, you'll be trying on sample sizes
Most boutiques solely carry sample sizes. It's important to remember that the gowns you're trying on won't necessarily fit like it your dress would when you place a custom order. Additionally, alterations will ensure that your gown fits you like a glove, and this will make you love it all the more. (This is where we step in!)
8. Choose your gown based on how you feel
Afterall, you're the one that will be wearing it on your wedding day. You'll come to find that everyone might have a different opinion, but you'll want to ultimately rely on how you feel about the dress, and how it makes you feel when you're wearing it. We recommend not bringing too many gals in when trying on. Too many opinions can get confusing, and can be overwhelming. You should feel beautiful and confident in your wedding gown. If you feel like you never want to take the dress off, your search may come to a successful end!