Wedding Dress Shopping: What to Expect & How to Prepare
Wedding dress shopping is one of the most exciting moments of the entire wedding planning process. It’s the moment you get to step into that dreamy gown and truly feel like a bride. But while it’s a magical experience, it can also be overwhelming if you don’t know what to expect. As someone who has spent years in the wedding industry, I’ve seen brides go into their appointments unprepared, leading to stress, frustration, and even tears! To help make your shopping experience enjoyable and successful, here’s everything you need to know before stepping into a bridal boutique.
1. Do Your Research Beforehand
Before booking appointments, take some time to gather inspiration. Browse bridal magazines, Pinterest, and Instagram to get a feel for styles you love. Save photos of gowns, noting any common trends, such as lace details, ballgown silhouettes, or minimalist designs, that consistently catch your eye. Having a vision will help your consultant guide you to the right dresses.
2. Set a Budget
It’s important to know how much you’re comfortable spending before you start trying on dresses. Wedding dresses come in a wide range of prices, and it’s easy to fall in love with a gown that’s way over budget. Be upfront about your price range with your consultant so they can pull options that align with your financial plan. Don’t forget to factor in alterations, accessories, and possible rush fees if needed.
3. Choose Your Shopping Crew Wisely
Bringing a large group can be overwhelming, and too many opinions may make your decision more difficult. Instead, choose 2-3 trusted friends or family members who know your style and will support your vision. A smaller group will keep the experience enjoyable and focused on what you love most.
4. Book Appointments Early
Most wedding dresses are made to order, which means they can take anywhere from 6-9 months to arrive. To avoid stress, start shopping at least 9-12 months before your wedding day. This allows plenty of time for fittings, alterations, and any last-minute adjustments.
5. Keep an Open Mind
Even if you have your heart set on a specific style, try on different silhouettes, you might be surprised! Many brides walk into a boutique thinking they want a mermaid gown, only to fall in love with a classic A-line or ballgown. Trust your bridal consultant and be open to their recommendations.
6. Wear the Right Undergarments & Shoes
To get the best idea of how a dress will look on your wedding day, wear nude-colored undergarments and a strapless bra. If you already have wedding shoes or plan to wear a certain heel height, bring them along to your appointment. If not, wear shoes that are similar to what you think you’ll wear on the big day.
7. Be Prepared for Emotions
Wedding dress shopping can be emotional, and that’s completely normal! You might cry when you find “the one,” or you might not, both reactions are okay. The key is to focus on how you feel in the dress rather than whether you have a dramatic TV-worthy reaction.
8. Don’t Feel Pressured to Decide Immediately
While some brides find their dream dress at the first appointment, others need time to think. If you’re unsure, take a step back and revisit the boutique after considering your options. Just keep in mind that some dresses take longer to order, so don’t wait too long if your wedding date is approaching.
9. Consider the Logistics
Think about your wedding venue and season when choosing a dress. A long-sleeved gown might not be ideal for a summer beach wedding, just as a light, flowy dress might not work for a winter ceremony. Make sure your dress is practical for your setting while still reflecting your style.
10. Enjoy the Moment!
Most importantly, have fun! Wedding dress shopping is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so soak in every moment. Trust the process, enjoy trying on different styles, and celebrate the joy of finding your perfect dress.
By preparing ahead of time and knowing what to expect, you can make wedding dress shopping a stress-free, exciting, and memorable experience.
Happy shopping!
Ashley Trahan