Gown Shopping Tips From The Experts

You recently got engaged and you’re ready to start your wedding planning. But where do you start? How about… the dress.

Finding a wedding dress is more than just a fitting, it’s a process – a memory in the making.

We reached out to our Bridal Shop vendors to share their expert tips and advice on wedding gown shopping. Here’s what they had to say:

Trust your gut. Choosing your gown is all about the feeling – don’t over think it!
Stop people pleasing. This is your day and the only opinion that really matters is your own, regardless of who is paying for the dress.
Say YES! I find brides get hung up on “am I shopping too early?” or “I’ve only shopped at one other store” or “but it’s the first dress I’ve tried on”. As my grandfather always said, “if you like it, buy it!”

Start early. Start shopping at least 1 year before your wedding. That will give you enough time to order your dress and to do the alterations. The earlier you shop the better.
Do your research. Before you head out to your bridal appointment, search the web or bridal magazines to get some ideas of what styles or fabrics or an overall look of what you may like.
Keep an open mind. Discuss your preferred styles with your bridal consultant that way she/he may get a feel of what you are looking for. BUT, keep an open mind when trying on dresses. Often times you will fall in love with a dress that you were not thinking of. Trust your consultant and try some of their suggestions.
Ask for incentives. Always ask your consultant if there are any incentives if you purchase your wedding gown off the rack.
Keep your entourage to a minimal amount. It is always best if you bring 1 to 2 guests with you to your appointment. Sometimes, the bigger the entourage, the more confusing and overwhelming it becomes for the bride. Too many confusing opinions.

Search for your favorite Bridal designers
Find local retailers that carry those brands
Try on dresses from your least favorite designer first. That way when you go to your favourite designer you’ve crossed out other options and won’t feel like you’ve missed out.
Be open to trying different silhouettes
Don’t try gowns on beyond your budget. Don’t forget to factor in accessories, shoes, tax, rush fees, alterations!
Be prepared for Bridal sizing – your gown’s number will often be one to two sizes higher than what you wear in your regular clothes.
Don’t bring too many people (2-3 max)
Bring the right undergarment + shoes – bring your strapless bras, spanx, etc.
Have someone take lots of pictures and videos of you in the dress
Remember – you are BEAUTIFUL!