First of all - congratulations, bride-to-be! You just said "yes" to forever, and now it's time to say "yes" to the dress! Wedding dress shopping is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning, but before you dive in, there are some things you must know to make the process as smooth (and fun!) as possible. Let’s get into it!
1. Timing is Everything - Don’t Wait Too Long!
We totally get it - time flies when you're planning a wedding, but one thing many brides don’t realize is that wedding dresses take 6-8 months to special order. That’s because when you try on a gown in-store, you’re trying a sample, and then we order your dress in your size. Delivery times vary by designer, the time of year, and even the specific gown! To avoid last-minute stress, we highly recommend ordering your dress at least a year in advance if you can.
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Short on time? Keep an eye out for sample sales! These gowns are ready-to-take-home and often come at a discounted price - a win-win for brides on a tight timeline!
2. Shop When You're Ready to Say Yes!
Wedding dress shopping is not like casual retail therapy - when you start trying on dresses, be prepared to buy. Why? Because bridal fashion moves fast, and if you fall in love with a gown, there’s no guarantee it will still be available later. Plus, shopping with a decision-making mindset helps keep the experience stress-free and exciting!
3. Be Strategic About Where You Shop
You might be tempted to visit every boutique in town, but trust us - less is more! We recommend shopping at no more than four bridal stores to keep things focused and prevent decision fatigue. Do your research and pick shops that align with your budget, style, and overall vibe.
4. Set a Realistic Price Point (Including Alterations!)
Before you step into a boutique, set a budget that works for you. Keep in mind that alterations are priced separately, so leave a little wiggle room for those final touches. The good news? You can find something you absolutely love at a price point that works - especially if you stay open-minded and focus on how a gown makes you feel rather than just the price tag. And don't worry, we'll help you sort it all out!
5. Try On ALL the Silhouettes
You might think you’re 100% set on a mermaid gown, but what if an A-line makes you feel like a queen? The truth is, wedding dresses look completely different on your body than they do on the hanger. So, go ahead - try on different silhouettes! You might just surprise yourself.
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6. Fuel Up Before Your Appointment
We know you want to look and feel your best, but please don’t starve yourself before your appointment! Not eating can leave you feeling foggy, dizzy, or lightheaded - not the vibe when you're trying to have a magical shopping moment.
Pro Tip: It might sound counterintuitive, but we encourage you to try on dresses when you’re not feeling your best! If a dress can make you feel beautiful even on an off day, you KNOW it’s the one.
7. Be Prepared to Go Braless (It’s a Thing!)
Many wedding gowns have built-in support, so don’t be surprised if your stylist asks you to go braless when trying them on! If you prefer, bring a strapless bra and nude underwear for comfort. Also, consider bringing shoes that match the heel height you plan to wear on your big day to get a feel for the full look.
8. Try Veils In Person, Not Online
Veils might seem like a simple accessory, but trust us, they can completely transform your bridal look! Instead of ordering online, we highly recommend trying veils in person with your dress to see what works best. It’s all about finding that perfect finishing touch!
Now that you’ve got all the must-know tips, it’s time to start shopping! Whether you’re planning ahead or need a gown ASAP, we at Mary’s Designer Bridal Boutique are here to help you find your dream dress. Book your appointment today, and let’s make some bridal magic happen!