So you have the groom and the ring, and now you are ready to hit the ground running to find that perfect dress! Congratulations! Here are some tips to finding that perfect dress and staying stress-free!
DO YOUR HOMEWORK: Go online, scour the newsstand and look in magazines, to find anything and everything wedding related. When you think of your wedding day, what do you picture yourself wearing? Is it a full ball gown or a form-fitting mermaid gown? Know the different styles of wedding gowns, and make sure you know what you are looking for. Make sure you know your budget before making an appointment. You don’t want to get your heart set on a $10,000 gown if you cannot afford it.
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT: Most bridal boutiques ask that you make an appointment and come prepared. Make sure you have an appointment with a consultant, and find out how much time you are allotted. Because Saturdays are hectic, weekdays are the best time for an appointment, because the consultant is able to give you her undivided attention. Make sure you have enough time to order your gown…allow six to eight months when working with a bridal boutique. Bring pictures of gowns you like. Ask the consultant to pull a few of their picks, too, as variety equals options. Keep an open mind as you shop, as most of the time you will not end up with the gown you pictured. Try on headpieces and veils while you are trying on gowns to give the full effect.
THINGS TO BRING TO AN APPOINTMENT:
- A strapless bra and the proper undergarments
- A credit card, just in case you happen to find the dress
- An open mind, and don’t look at the size of the gown you are trying on or measuring.
- Bring a camera. If the salon will let you, take some pictures to capture the moments when you come out in the dresses. Even if you don’t like some of the gowns, the pictures make a great album later on. Snap a picture of you and your consultant, especially if she sells you the gown. Don’t show anyone the pictures; the more opinions you get, the more confused you are.
- Don’t bring the entourage! While you would like to include everybody in the gown shopping process, make sure that you only bring two to three people. If you bring too many people, it can become confusing for you, and you will not know what you like.
- Do bring your mom! She will want to share this experience, and it can be an experience you both cherish the rest of your lives.
ENTERTAIN THE IDEA: VEIL OR HEADPIECE: If you have a seasoned bridal consultant, she will automatically put you in a veil or headpiece. This will do two things: make you feel like a bride and complete the look. Your consultant will more than likely accompany the veil with a headpiece, which will further complete the look and enhance the dress. Some brides choose a tiara, headband, pretty clip, or other baubles.
Where to find your gown? Visit www.premierbridems.com for a bridal boutique near you.