How To Get The Most out of Your Wedding Dress Shopping

 
 

When we think about wedding dress shopping, we envision a fun and carefree experience where the bride-to-be is surrounded by friends and family and made to feel like a princess. There are beautiful dresses and laughter, and the day ends with the perfect wedding dress in hand. With a little research and preparation, wedding dress shopping can be the incredible experience that all brides deserve.

Prepare

The most important thing that you can do to ensure a positive dress shopping experience is to prepare. Set appointments with any and all shops you want to visit. Making appointments will ensure that you have their full attention and help while you’re shopping. I would suggest setting multiple appointments at different shops, and doing them all in one or two days. When you schedule your appointments one after another, you are better able to remember and compare dresses that you’ve tried on.

When you head to your appointment, be sure that you are wearing the undergarments that you are planning to wear on your actual wedding day. Believe it or not, the type of underwear you prefer will make a difference in the style of gown you should choose. I would also recommend having your hair and makeup done. This will give you the full effect so that you can see what the dresses will look like on the big day.

BRING THE RIGHT ENTOURAGE

Next, be sure to bring the right entourage with you. Bring your hype squad! You want people who will support you, take lots of photos of every dress, and be honest and kind when giving their opinions. Although you may feel pressure to bring a party made up of family members, that may not be the best option for you. There are times when friends are going to help you feel your best and make the best decision. Most importantly, you want people who make you feel like YOU.

ASK THESE QUESTIONS

  • Do you offer in-house alterations?

  • How long will my dress take to arrive?

  • How does payment work?

  • Do you have any accessories or packages available?

  • Do you offer any custom designs?

  • How does your sizing work?

  • What is adjustable on this dress?

  • What style would you recommend for my body shape?

  • What are your popular styles right now? 

  • What is something more unique you have?

GO IN WITH AN OPEN MIND

When you get to your appointment, make sure that you are willing to try on something different than what you think you might like. I would definitely go into the appointment with ideas of what type of gown has caught your interest, but be open to the suggestions of the bridal salon employees. You never know when something you hadn’t even considered may surprise you! The bridal consultants are trained to know which dresses will look good on which brides, and they do this day in and day out. Trust their expertise! The most important thing in the end is to be sure to choose something that speaks to you and fits your unique wedding vibes.

♥ The Everson Events Team

Photography: Brynlee Paige Photo