Walk in Style

We know shopping for the wedding dress is the most anticipated pre-wedding moment for brides, and it should be all fun. But having so many choices makes it easy to get overwhelmed. Plan ahead and follow these tips for the best shopping experience.

rules of engagement

Unless you plan for a twelve-month or longer engagement, set a budget right away and start looking for your wedding dress up to nine months before the wedding day. At the same time, don’t procrastinate these important pieces to your wedding day. Some dress designers require six to eight months to produce a dress; others may be quicker or even longer, so be sure to ask. Order early to avoid rush-order fees and to allow plenty of time for fittings, alterations and, of course, Murphy’s Law (whatever can go wrong, will).

come to terms

When you imagine yourself walking down the aisle, how would you describe the dress style you are wearing? If you need help with the terms to use, become familiar with specialty fabrics and dress silhouettes to help you communicate the details of what you want.

If you are still searching for that certain look, flip through these magazine pages and mark the dresses you like for your consultant. Have a budget in mind before you go, and don’t be afraid to communicate your budget with the professional helping you at your appointment. After all, they are there to help your dress dreams come true and to provide you with the best shopping experience possible.

IndigoBlue Photography

style guide

The details of your ceremony – the season, how formal it will be, the location, theme, etc. – should be used as a guide in choosing a dress. Select a fabric and finish that is appropriate for the location and weather of your wedding day. Each possible scenario calls for a different style of dress, so be sure to share this information at your appointment.

shopping day

have a price in mind

Once you have a budget, don’t try on dresses outside of your limits. You won’t want to fall for a gown you can’t afford. Also remember to factor in your veil, lingerie, jewelry and shoes to create your budget.

bring the extras

Make sure to bring any accessories you have already purchased to ensure the styles are cohesive. This includes heirloom jewelry, hair pieces and shoes.

dress accordingly

Keep your makeup light to keep the dresses clean. It also helps to have your hair similar to what you are looking for on your wedding day, too.

local advantage

Regardless of whether you know the look and love a particular designer or are starting from scratch, it’s best to shop local. The staff at local bridal salons can help get you started trying styles on right away.

Once you find “the dress,” stop looking! Have faith in your decision, and enjoy the peace of mind that finding the perfect gown brings.

Mist and Moonlight Photography

what to ask

• How long should I expect my visit to last?

• Are appointments one-on-one?

• Can I schedule an appointment after hours?

• How long does it take to order a bridal gown?

• Do I have to take my gown home after I purchase it?

• Are rental gowns available?

• When do I need to start alterations?

• Can you alter dresses not purchased at your store?

• Will you alter any brand of dress?

• How long does it take to order bridesmaid dresses?

• What should I do if my bridesmaids are not local?

• What happens if my bridesmaid finds out she’s pregnant?

• Are any discounts available for the wedding party if we purchase the dress and/or suit at your store?

• What information do you need to rent tuxedos?

• Is it possible to rent just a few parts of the tuxedo?

• Do you accept returns?

Legacy Photo and Design

altered to fit

Don’t fixate on the size of the dress, but instead on how your measurements compare to the designer’s chart. Gown sizes usually run a few sizes different than your everyday clothes.

To achieve a perfect fit, your dress will likely need minor alterations, best done by a professional seamstress. Don't take a gamble by letting an amateur make your alterations.

R. Becker Creative

preserve your gown

Your wedding gown is going to be beautiful, and probably the largest investment on a dress you will ever make. Its showcase will be the day of your wedding, but there are tasks before and after the big day to make sure your dress stays in perfect condition.

You love that dress with all your heart leading up to the wedding. It’s your baby and you make sure every little detail is precise and it is sparkly new. When your wedding day comes, your focus will shift to what’s actually going on.

The dress will be dragged on the ground, through glitter and grass. You’re going to have a great time and food will drop and drinks will be spilled. It’s ok!

Glasser Images

After the wedding, your gown should be cleaned and protected. At the cleaners, let them know of anything and everything that was spilled on your dress. Since the heat from the cleaning will essentially set the stains, pre-treating will be important if you don’t want brown spots on the gown. Preserving your gown is crucial if you want your dress kept in good condition.

All of the elaborate beading, sequins, and lace may cause complications during the cleaning…but don’t let that stop you from getting the gown of your dreams. Talk through the process with your vendor and be patient with the processes they will need to take.

To store the dress, ask for your gown to be placed in a dust-proof, acid-free box suitable for storage. This will preserve all of the delicate laces, beading and fabric of your wedding ensemble, helping keep the yellow hues away. Last but not least, store your gown in an area that is cool and dry.

Black Hills Receptions, courtesy of Natural Escapes

Sundance Girl Photography

Elsie Fortune Photography

Complete Weddings + Events