After you say, "Yes!" usually the first thing a bride wants to do is shop for her wedding gown. It's fun and exciting, but also could become overwhelming. To ease some of your possible anxiety, here are ten tips to help your wedding gown shopping go smoothly.
1. Definitely begin looking at bridal magazines to find the styles and designs you like. Tear out your favorites and bring them with you to the bridal salon. Show the salesperson so they can see the styles and designs you like. This will save a lot of time and frustration. Also tell them what you do not like so they won't waste valuable time bringing out gowns that you know you are going to hate before you even try them on.
2. Start shopping for your gown as soon as possible, especially if you plan to purchase a designer gown (not off the rack.) It can take up to six months (including time for alterations) to have your gown ready for your wedding day.
3. Know your price point before you step one foot into the bridal salon. Be sure to inform the salesperson to ensure they only show you gowns at or below your price point. Wise advice - do not even think about trying on a gown that is well above that price point. You know what will happen. Have you ever watched, "Say Yes to the Dress?" You know what I'm talking about. You run the risk of going way over your price point. Don't forget to include the cost of accessories (veil, undergarments, shoes, etc.) and alterations.
4. Decide on which bridal salons you would like to visit and call them up to make an appointment. Most require one. Do not assume that you can just show up and expect to be waited on immediately. If they do not take appointments, the best time to arrive is as soon as they open their doors.
5. Bring your mother and your matron/maid of honor, who is usually your most trustworthy friend. Do not show up with an entourage of people. You will have too many views that may cause you to become frustrated, disappointed and/or baffled. On the other side, don't go alone either. You do want someone else's opinion besides the salesperson's.
6. Trust your heart. You are the only one who truly knows your body and what looks good on you. Listen to yourself. Don't just rely your decision on someone else's thoughts. You will know when it's the right dress.
7. When going to try on gowns, wear neutral-colored undergarments. Do not wear lots of make-up or red or dark lipsticks, and heavy perfume. These elements could damage a gown.
8. We all want to lose weight before our wedding day, but you should still buy your wedding dress that fits you now. It is much easier and less expensive to "take in" a gown versus trying to "enlarge" it which may not always be possible.
9. While you want your gown to be "drop dead gorgeous," be sure it is comfortable as well. When having it altered, be sure to move around (as if you were dancing) and sit in it.
10. As with any major purchase, it is not wise to make an impulse buy, but to "sleep" on it. You want to be absolutely sure this is the dress you have been dreaming about. Most salons only accept a non-refundable deposit and/or may not accept exchanges. So "shop 'til you drop" to find that perfect wedding gown for you.
Happy shopping!
photo courtesy: Martha Stewart Weddings - Gown by Monique Lhuillier, spring 2012 collection
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