A little background information on me, I love weddings and fashion. I had an amazing ten year career in retail, helping women of all sizes and shapes find complete wardrobes for their different walks of life. The beginning stages of wedding planning introduced me to many dress shops and lots of hours of research on designers and styles. All of this knowledge helps me choose the best dresses for my clients, read on for a fool proof ten steps to finding the perfect wedding dress.
1. THIS IS CRUCIAL, Start by setting the date, time and Venue.
To achieve an overall cohesive look you have to consider the setting of your wedding. If you are having an outdoor hill country wedding, a strapless dress might be perfect. Getting married in a historic ballroom? You might want to consider something more traditional or with a strong presence. For destination weddings on the beach, a flowy and lightweight material is perfect. Without having the “setting” chosen, you will risk being over or underdressed.
2. Decide on a general budget
Before heading to a wedding shop, find out how much you think you can spend. General rule is 5% of your total wedding budget. This should used as a guide and goal, but be flexible if you absolutely fall in love!
3. Pick your favorite dresses in the media
Armed with a budget and setting, you can start looking through magazines. Look for styles that catch your eye, match your theme and will fall into your budget. Rip out looks you love and save them in a bridal book to take with you to dress shops as inspiration. Pretend you can make your perfect dress, It’s ok if you like the top of one dress, bottom of another and the back of a third. There are over 300 dress designers, don’t try to look at all of them. Narrow down your favorites and then look online to find a shop in your area that carries your favorite designers.
4. Research local shops and make an appointment
Bridal shops are different than normal retail stores, they should provide one on one personalized service and usually take at least an hour of your time. To ensure you get the best service, make an appointment to reserve your knowledgeable bridal specialist. Many boutiques cringe when they see a walk in because they are scared they might fail at giving you the attention you deserve as a bride. Although most brides are on a budget, be aware that large chains, like David’s Bridal, mass produce their dresses, therefore the quality of the garment is generally lower than a boutique shop. If you are new to the area, ask your wedding planner!
5. Be prepared and have the right company
Bring the most important person in your decision making process. If you’re lucky enough to have a supportive mother or best friend, bring them. Whatever you do- do NOT bring more than two people- this will cause confusion and difference in opinion. Be prepared with your inspiration pictures, a strapless bra, and an open mind.
6. Flatter your body
Just like shopping for a swimsuit, you have to be realistic about your body type to find success. Larger fuller hips are usually best kept in an A-line Style. Smaller bust is easily emphasized with a sweetheart neckline or pleated top. A larger midsection is perfectly hidden with a corset back or rushed midsection. The more layers in a dress, the more curves it adds to your body. You never know how something will fit until you try it on, so go ahead and try the dresses the bridal specialist suggests.
7. The rating system and going with your gut
With ten different dresses to try on it’s easy to get confused or forget your favorites. The best way to narrow down your choices is a 1-10 rating system with ten being THE ONE! While trying on each dress, think about how it makes you feel and how it will fit into your setting and then rate it. Don’t be surprised if you have to visit several shops to find the perfect ten. When you have found THE ONE - you will know, your gut will say “I FEEL FABULOUS IN THIS!”
8. Get it in writing
Once you have decided on the perfect dress, make sure to get everything in writing. Receipts or order forms should include dress and style information, color, size and measurements, price, applicable discounts, order and ship dates and cancellation policies. Don’t assume anything.
9. Alterations are a must
95% of special order dresses need alterations to ensure a perfect fit. This is usually in the bust, along the hem, creating a bustle, adjusting zippers or altering the train. Ask for recommendations from your bridal shop for the best and most reputable specialists for your needs.
10. Complete the look
This is a once in a lifetime event and all eyes will be on you. Make sure you complete the look with coordinating accessories. Do not over do it, sometimes less is more. Look for special details in your dress and match it with a veil or personalize the look with the right “bling” in the right places. The tiara or veil, brooch, clutch, shoes, flowers, accessories, even undergarments are all part of your look for your amazing day. Create a cohesive look and you will feel like a million bucks!
Every step of the wedding planning process is fun. Just like finding the right partner, you have to invest time and endure trials to ensure things go well. If you ever feel like wedding planning is stressful, contact a professional wedding coordinator as they can customize just the right amount of help for your needs. Happy planning!
