So the time has finally come for your bridal appointment and we are so excited for you! Shopping for your dream wedding gown is by far one of the most exciting parts of the wedding process. With that excitement comes nerves - will I find the perfect gown, will I want a ball gown, A line gown or mermaid and how do I know I found “the dress”? Don't fret as these questions are perfectly normal. We’ve put together a list of tips that you can take with you on your bridal gown journey.
1. Create an inspirational folder of gowns you may like
Pinterest and Style Me Pretty are perfect for gathering ideas. Rip out magazine pictures, build a Pinterest board and print out photos from online sites that you love. A fun fact - I found my wedding gown on Pinterest! I was obsessed with the dress the second I saw it. I did some research to find out who the designer was and sure enough Amsale in NYC carried the Coco gown from last year. I was ecstatic and knew this was “The Dress!” Once you’ve gathered a few photos that inspire you bring them along to your bridal dress fittings so the consultant can help narrow down your search and pull gowns that may interest you.
2. Decide on your theme
What time of year will your wedding be? Will you be having a beach wedding, winter wedding or formal church wedding? Finding a dress that suits the theme is important. If you’re looking to have a beach wedding you’ll want to forgo the ball gown with a cathedral veil (the train will accumulate sand and the veil will blow like crazy in the wind) an opt for a light and airy fabric such as silk chiffon or organza. You may decide on a halter necklines also lend a more casual, beach look. If you’re having a winter wonderland wedding you’d want to aim for a classic silk satin fabric and possibly a fur shaw as an accessory. Sleeved gowns are back in are simply perfect for winter brides who want a little extra protection from the elements. Keeping in mind the wedding theme, location & time of year will really help you when deciding on the fabric for your wedding gown.
3. What is your budget?
Determine your budget prior to wedding dress shopping is key. Dresses can range anywhere from $100 to $12,000 at most salons. Set a budget that is realistic but that will also score you the dress of your dreams!
4. Be adventurous!
While you may have your heart set on a fit n flare gown have fun trying on all kinds of styles and fits. You may surprise yourself and fall in love with a design you didn’t know you'd like. Even though I thought I found my dream wedding dress from day 1, I went to countless boutiques and flagship stores to try on an assortment of dresses. Not only was it a once in a lifetime experience to try on beautiful gowns but it also opened up my eyes to gowns I never thought I’d like. Have fun with it - it truly is the most magical experience.
5. Ask your audience
How do I look in this gown? Feel open to involve your audience by asking the opinions of your friends and family. Whether it's your mom & sister or bridal party at your appointment its great to ask their opinions. The bridal consultants are also really helpful and can give you their suggestions and advice. It is important to remember not everyone will agree so when it comes down to it the decision is yours and you’ll know what you feel amazing in.
6. How does your dress feel when walking and sitting?
Walk around and sit in your gown. Take a stroll through the salon to get a feel for how you walk in your dress. Is it easy to move in? Will you opt for heals or flats? Take this time to really soak in how you feel in your dress. Also be sure you can sit down in the dress. Even thought you wont be sitting all that entirely much on your wedding day you want to be sure it’s easy to sit in.
7. Have fun & soak it all in!
Your shopping trip will be one of the most fun things that you do along your wedding planning journey so make the most out of it and soak it in. Enjoy this time as you're a bride once. If you’re not ready to purchase a dress at the end of your day take time to think about it. Sometimes the best decisions are made after a good nights rest. Happy wedding dress shopping!
