Timing Is Everything
When it comes to selecting your wedding dress, most bridal gowns are made-to-order, which means it can take anywhere from 6 to 9 months for your dress to arrive after placing an order.
Be sure to leave additional time for alterations, which can take another 2 to 3 months. Ideally, start shopping 10 to 12 months before your wedding date to ensure you have plenty of time to find and perfect your dream gown without feeling rushed.
If your timeline is shorter, don’t worry! Many stores offer rush orders or have off-the-rack options available, but starting earlier allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.
Research the Bridal Shop ahead of time
A good bridal shop and its staff can make or break your experience. Spend some time on-line learning about each shop. Try to find out what styles they carry, their appointment process, who the staff and owner are and be sure to note their price points. Being informed will help you feel more confident in your choices and ensure the shop aligns with your needs.
Here are some other things to look for:
Welcoming Atmosphere: The shop should feel inviting and stress-free, with a focus on your needs.
Experienced Consultants: A great bridal consultant listens to your vision, gets to know your personality, understands your body type, and knows how to translate your preferences into gown options. They should never pressure you or rush the process.
Good Communication: The staff should clearly explain timelines, fittings, alterations, and pricing.
Appointment Options: Find out how long your appointment will be and if there are any fees. A deposit may be required to discourage no-shows on a Saturday, that deposit will then go towards your final dress cost. Some shops also offer exclusive and luxury appointments where they close down the shop for you and your guests. You will be able to invite more guests, have more time and there will usually be music, snacks, and bubbly.
Have a Date and Venue Already Picked
While it’s not mandatory to have a wedding date and venue secured before dress shopping, it can make a significant difference in how you approach the experience. As Stella Jones owner of Stella’s Bridal Boutique, in New York, explains in Ask The Planner Podcast, “There is a different feeling when you have a solid date and a venue. There is an excitement and serious tone to it now, and you can envision it.”
Knowing your wedding date and venue allows you to consider factors like the season, formality, and setting when selecting your dress. For example, a lightweight gown might be ideal for a summer outdoor wedding, while a more elaborate ballgown suits a grand indoor venue. Having these details solidified gives you a clearer vision and makes the decision-making process more intentional.
Choose Your Shopping Squad Wisely
While it might be tempting to bring everyone who’s excited about your big day, too many opinions can quickly become overwhelming. Limit your group to 2-4 people whose opinions you trust and value. This often includes:
Your Mom or Mother Figure: They’ve likely dreamed of this moment as much as you have.
Your Maid of Honour or Best Friend: They know your personal style and can give honest, constructive feedback.
A Trusted Relative: Someone who can provide a second opinion but won’t dominate the conversation.
Bringing the right people ensures you get the support and encouragement you need without feeling overwhelmed by differing viewpoints. In the end, allow yourself to be present with yourself and take time to ensure the dress speaks to who you are and will bring out your best self on the big day.
Come Prepared
Walking into a bridal shop unprepared can make the process more challenging than it needs to be. Here are a few must-haves to bring along:
A Firm Budget: According to The Bridal Boutique in Calgary “think of your budget as what your are comfortable spending - That’s your budget! Easy peasy!” I would go a little further and ask yourself what you may be sacrificing for a more expensive dress. Maybe some heirloom jewellery, a printed invitation suite versus a digital email or a limo ride to and from the venue?
Bring Photos: This is the most helpful for bridal consultants and stylists and if you can send them before your appointment, even better.
Proper Undergarments: A strapless bra and seamless underwear will help you see how gowns fit and lay correctly.
Shoes: Bring heels or shoes with a similar height to what you plan to wear on your wedding day to get a sense of how the dress falls. There will be pedestals at the boutique so the dress will hang properly regardless if you have shoes but… as you narrow down your choices, you will want to walk around in the dress, stand and sit, maybe even cross your legs with the shoes on to get a feel for how everything will wear together during the day.
Hair Accessories or Jewelry: If you already have your veil, headpiece, or special jewelry, bring them along to see how they pair with different styles.
A Bouquet or Inspiration Item: This will help you visualize what guests will see and what the photos will show during that iconic moment of walking down the aisle.
Know Your Style – But Stay Open-Minded
Think about the silhouettes, fabrics, and details you love. However, don’t be afraid to try on something outside your comfort zone. Many brides fall in love with a dress they never expected to like! Every wedding dress has a little personality and you may be surprised what style suits
your personality the best!
Visit Multiple Shops
If you have the time and stamina, consider visiting more than one bridal shop. Spreading it out over 2 days would be even better and will give you more time to think about your choices. Different shops carry different designers, styles, and sizes, so exploring multiple options can help you find the perfect gown. Be mindful of your energy levels and avoid over-scheduling yourself—shopping for your wedding dress should feel exciting, not exhausting.
Limit Your Options
Trying on too many dresses can lead to decision fatigue. Start with a small selection (4-6 gowns) and narrow them down based on how each one makes you feel. If you’re torn, revisit your favourites to solidify your choice.
Focus on the Feeling
It’s not just about how the dress looks—it’s about how it makes you feel. The right gown should make you feel confident, beautiful, and completely yourself. Listen to your instincts, and don’t feel pressured to say yes until you’re sure.
Take multiple photos of you in the Dress
Looking at photos of yourself in the dress in photos can really help you see it differently than looking at yourself in the mirror. Ask someone from your squad to snap some photos and then show them to you after you've tried on a few choices. You'll be surprised at how helpful this can be.
Consider What Adds to the Cost
The price of a wedding dress can vary widely depending on its materials and craftsmanship. Factors that can add to the cost include:
Embellishments like crystals, embroidery, and beading
Layers of fabric or intricate construction
Chantilly lace or other rare textiles
English-covered buttons or other hand-sewn details
If you’re working with a budget, don’t worry—there are many talented designers who use more affordable materials without sacrificing style. Share your budget with your consultant, and they’ll help you find a gown that fits your vision without breaking the bank.
Handling a Negative Guest
Not every guest will understand or appreciate wedding dress design and the importance of feeling confident on your big day. Occasionally, someone may offer negative or discouraging comments during the appointment. A skilled stylist can help diffuse this by involving the guest in the process a bit more, showing them the craftsmanship and thought behind the gown choices. Including them in this way may help them feel valued and reduce negativity. If the situation persists, focus on your own feelings about the dress—this day is about you, and your opinion matters most.
Don’t place most of your focus on your body type
A good stylist will match your energy with your wedding dress. If there’s a style that lights you up and brings out your confidence and best self, that’s the style for you. Leave your fears about sizing behind—a stylist will never ask a bride for her size. It’s their job to know this and to ensure you feel comfortable and beautiful in whatever dress you choose.
Celebrate the Moment
Finding your wedding dress is a milestone worth celebrating. Whether it’s popping a bottle of champagne or grabbing lunch with your shopping squad afterward, take a moment to soak in the joy of the day.
Final ThoughtsYour bridal shop experience should be filled with excitement, joy, and maybe even a few happy tears. You deserve this moment and You deserve this dress for one of the most important Heirloom moments of your life! With a little preparation, the right support, and a positive mindset, you’ll walk away with a dress you love and memories to cherish forever.
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