The search for the bridal gown is one of the most fun aspects of wedding planning. You’ll tear through pages of magazines, browse the web sites and blogs (often while at work), ask for recommendations, and day dream endlessly about the one.  When else in our modern lives do we get to wear such an amazing creation?  This is your one shot at making your own personal fashion statement.  So it is important to get it right!

Here are a few tips to help make the shopping experience more enjoyable, stress free, and a whole lot easier.

Homework: Collect those ideas you love.  Gather together the images and print outs of styles that inspire you.  Keep in mind you might not love the styles in person or on you, but your ideas are the best jumping-off point.

Timing: Special order gowns take an average of 4 months to create and another 2 months to alter.  Many options are available for quicker service, and we will happily help you find something off-the-rack or that can easily be rushed, but time is your friend.  You can save money (and stress) by ordering early.

Budget: It is important to have a general gown budget before you go dress shopping.  Wedding dresses come in many budgets and categories.  Having an idea of what you can spend will help keep you from having your heart broken.

Appointments: It is a good idea to call ahead.  This can be a big time saver and insure better, more personal service.  Also, you’ll have first run at all the gowns.

Friends and Family: Many people want to share in your joy and there are definitely ways of including them all.  However, for your gown appointment, consider bringing along only one or two of your most supportive confidants.  More opinions can hinder the process and, inadvertently, hurt feelings.

Being open minded: Try on a gown or two out-side of the box (Kate calls them “wild card” dresses).  You never know what you’ll find from trying something new.  It may either show you the path to the perfect ensemble or reassure your current opinion.

Finding THE one: Be prepared to fall in love.  When you find the right dress, get it!  Imagine if you waited a few months and the style was discontinued?  Or, what if another bride were to buy the sample later that same day?  Let’s be honest, so much of the focus is going to be on you…make sure you LOVE what you’re wearing.

Want to know more? Call us, come visit, send an email -We’re at your disposal.

Image: Anne Barge