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.

Chutin Flicks Photography

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).

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

Chutin Flick Photography

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.

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.

R. Becker Creative

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 one to two sizes different than your everyday clothes.

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.

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?

Glasser Images