Congrats! You’re engaged, and now it’s time to start thinking about your wedding dress! At VOWS we understand that with so many stunning styles and unique designs from which to choose, it can be a little overwhelming. So many dresses, so little time, right?
First of all, you need to lay some shopping groundwork! Below are the most important tips to get you started!
Set a budget ASAP!
Budget is key, especially if you are tight one! Remember that your dress is part of your overall wedding costs. So, think about your maximum spending limit. And don’t stress, stunning dresses are available in all price ranges. Most importantly, once the amount has been decided, stick to it!
Do your research!
Time for the fun stuff–getting an idea of your bridal style. This involves browsing online, looking at bridal magazines, etc. After getting an idea of your likes and dislikes, use online outlets like Pinterest or Instagram to keep your faves in one place. This will come in handy when you go to actual boutiques. Even if you can’t find or afford that particular dress, you can find something very similar and within your budget. At VOWS we are here to help you do just that!
Be the early bird!
There’s no place for procrastination when it comes to shopping for a wedding gown. You should begin your search at least nine months ahead of time. Some brides even opt for a year just to be safe. Why? It may take some time to find “the one.” Then, it may have to be ordered. If it is a custom order, it could take 4-6 months to actually receive the gown. Factor in time for alterations and you will see why early shopping is so very important.
Trust your consultant!
Having an idea of what you want in a wedding gown is crucial. But, also be willing to let your bridal consultant do what they do best–give advice! Be flexible about trying on different styles than what you had envisioned. You just might be surprised at what you find!
Be prepared!
In the end, if you decide to custom order a wedding dress, be prepared to put down a deposit to begin the process. You may even fall in love with one of our off-the rack sample gowns!
Have fun!
Whatever you do, don’t get discouraged! Finding your dream wedding gown should be joyful, not stressful! If you find yourself overwhelmed, take a breath, smile, and remember what your wedding day is all about!