Congratulations...you're engaged! Now comes the time to shop! Searching for your dream gown is magical and exciting but can also be quite overwhelming! Check out our 10 top wedding dress shopping tips!
Via Time Out
Plan it out!
Shopping for a wedding gown is a longer process than you may think! Most gowns will take between 4 to 9 months to order, plus 4 to 6 weeks for final alterations if required. Make sure you are planning in advance so that you aren't left with only a few months to find your dream gown. We recommend beginning the search for your gown 9 to 12 months before the big day.
Do your research
There are so many stores to visit and so little time! Don't overcomplicate your search. Do your research and find designers, styles and price points you are happy with and focus on the stores that can supply this to you.
Via Lost in Love Photography
Make enquiries and appointments
Making enquiries and asking questions is an important first step when contacting a bridal store. Ask about appointment times, styles, price points, consultation prices and any particular gowns you are interested in. The more information you can give to them, the more they will be able to help you during your appointment.
Pin Pin Pin
Pinterest is every bride's best friend. Spend a lazy Sunday afternoon scrolling through Pinterest to find ideas for your bridal look. Be sure to bring it along to your appointment and let your consultant have a look. It's a great way to show the vision you have for your big day.
Choose your #bridalsquad
Having your bridal squad by your side is a huge part of the wedding planning process. When searching for a gown, choose your group carefully. Try and limit your bridal squad for the gown search to 2 or 3 people. When you fall in love with a gown, you can always bring more people to see it....and of course, they will be seeing it on the big day! Many bridal stores will have a limit for guests allowed at an appointment so be sure to enquire.
Via Milenko Weddings
What to wear
It is recommended that you wear nude underwear, a strapless bra and minimal make up. Make sure you are comfortable! Many stores will also provide high heels but always feel free to bring your own, as well as any other accessories you may want to try on with the gown.
Here to help
Your consultant or bridal stylist is there to make your dreams come true! Listen to their advice and don't be afraid to ask questions. They know what they are talking about and will do what they can to help you create your perfect day.
Via Lost in Love Photography
Click click snap
Many bridal stores have a no photography policy. Be sure to respect this and ask for the details of the gown so you can have a look online. If you are able to take a photo, just remember that it's not a professional photo and you're not in all of your fabulous wedding glam! Don't let a photo make a decision...remember the feeling you have when you're wearing the gown. Some stores may also allow you to Skype or Facetime anyone who isn't there so don't be afraid to ask!
Don't set expectations
Shopping for a wedding gown, whilst magical, is not always like a TV show. You may not cry or 'just know' when you put on the gown. Most importantly, the gown you love may be the complete opposite of what you thought you would like. Go in with an open mind and be sure to try things on before ruling them out.
Remember, you're the bride!
This will be the gown you marry the love of your life in, so remember that you are the bride and it's your day! Pick something you love that you feel comfortable, happy and yourself in.
Via Lost in Love Photography
Happy Shopping!
