Junior Rasmussen
Wedding dress shopping is an exciting part of the wedding planning process, but it can also be overwhelming. To make the most of a wedding dress shopping weekend, preparation is key. First, consider your budget and do some research on designer prices to avoid falling in love with a gown that is out of your price range. Next, establish a baseline of likes and dislikes, and select a few words to describe your dream bridal style. Then, book your appointments, bearing in mind that Saturdays are the busiest days at bridal salons, so you may prefer to book a weekday appointment when you can have more time and attention from a bridal consultant. Finally, on the day, wear comfortable clothing and minimal makeup, and be prepared to try on a variety of dresses to find the one that's right for you.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to start shopping | Ideally between 8 and 10 months before the wedding, but at least 6 months out. The length of your engagement and how soon your wedding is are also factors. |
| How many shops to visit | As many as you think carry gowns you could see yourself in, but avoid cramming too many appointments into a day or weekend. Most people visited 2 stores before making a selection. |
| When to book appointments | Try to book on a weekday morning or afternoon to avoid crowds. |
| How to prepare | Do some research beforehand to establish likes and dislikes. Be open to recommendations from your consultant. Wear comfortable clothing and minimal makeup. |
| Budgeting | Be clear about your budget with your consultant. Do some research on designer prices to avoid falling in love with a gown that's out of your budget. |
| Who to bring | Whoever you decide to bring, choose a time that works for them and you. |
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Research and budgeting
Wedding dress shopping can be an overwhelming experience, but with some research and budgeting, you can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some tips to guide you:
Research:
Before stepping into any bridal boutiques, it's essential to do your research. Understanding the different options available, the current fashion trends, and what suits your style and body type will help you make informed decisions. Browse online, look at different designers and retailers, and get a sense of the price ranges. This will give you a baseline of likes and dislikes, and you can start to narrow down the specific elements you want in your dream dress.
Budgeting:
Determining your budget is a crucial step in the wedding dress shopping process. Couples typically allocate around 6% to 10% of their total wedding budget for attire and beauty, including the wedding dress, alterations, and accessories. Consider the cost of potential alterations, which can range from $75 to over $300, depending on the complexity.
When setting your budget, be realistic and all-inclusive. Factor in the cost of the dress itself, any adjustments needed (10-20% of the dress cost is recommended for alterations), and any accessories you may want to add. If you have a specific designer or boutique in mind, check their websites, or give them a call to get an idea of price ranges. This will help you manage your expectations and ensure you don't fall in love with a dress that's out of your budget.
To save money, consider browsing affordable options online at budget-friendly retailers or looking for sample sales, trunk shows, or off-the-rack sales. You can also shop secondhand, which can offer significant savings and help reduce textile waste. Prioritize what matters most to you in a gown, whether it's the fabric, silhouette, or embellishments, and be willing to balance these elements within your budget.
Remember, finding the right dress within your budget is achievable with careful planning and research. Start your research early, be open-minded, and trust the expertise of bridal consultants to guide you in the right direction.
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Timing and appointments
When booking appointments, it is important to consider your schedule and the number of appointments you want to cram into a day. You don't want to overwhelm yourself by booking too many appointments in a day or a weekend. It is recommended to keep your list small and curated to shops and designers you absolutely love. You can book appointments by visiting the boutiques' websites or calling them directly.
If you want a more personalised experience, it is best to avoid Saturdays, as this is the busiest day at bridal salons. Instead, opt for a weekday morning or afternoon appointment, which will provide more individual attention from a bridal consultant. If you plan to visit a bridal shop that is not close to your residence, be sure to book your appointment well in advance, especially if it is on the weekend.
Additionally, consider the production and shipping time for your dress, which can take up to five months or longer. You may also need to account for alterations, which typically require one to three sessions before the wedding day. If you are short on time, consider purchasing an off-the-rack dress, a sample sale gown, or a ready-to-wear elopement look, which can be taken home the same day.
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What to wear
Wedding dress shopping is an exciting experience, but it can also be overwhelming. To make the most of your weekend, it's important to plan ahead, especially when it comes to what to wear. Here are some tips to help you prepare:
Keep it Simple
When choosing an outfit for your appointment, simplicity is key. Opt for something loose-fitting and easy to take on and off, as you'll be changing in and out of dresses. A dress or skirt that falls just above the knee is a good option. Avoid anything too complicated or time-consuming to change out of, as this may become a nuisance during your appointment.
Comfort and Confidence
Wear something that makes you feel comfortable and confident. It's important to feel good about yourself during this exciting time. Choose an outfit that reflects your personal style and makes you feel happy. However, avoid wearing white, as this is typically reserved for the bride.
Practical Underwear
Bring a variety of underwear options, including strapless bras, skin-toned undergarments, and shapewear. These will ensure you can try on different dress styles and silhouettes without your underwear showing. If you plan to wear shapewear under your wedding dress, bring it along to see how it works with each gown.
Hair and Makeup
Consider wearing your hair and makeup similar to how you envision your wedding day look. This will help you get a better sense of the overall aesthetic and how the dress complements your chosen style. If you plan to wear an updo or have long hair, bring hair ties to secure your hair when trying on dresses with intricate backs.
Shoes
Bring a pair of shoes similar in height to what you plan to wear on your wedding day. This will help you visualize the overall look and feel of the dress, as well as how it moves with you. If you intend to wear heels, bring a pair that will go well with your chosen outfit and allow you to walk comfortably between appointments.
Accessories
Don't forget to bring any accessories you plan to wear on your wedding day, such as heirloom jewellery or a veil. These items can help you create a cohesive look and ensure your chosen dress complements your accessories.
Remember, the most important thing is to feel comfortable and excited about this special experience. Enjoy the process and savour every moment of your wedding dress shopping weekend!
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Who to bring
Wedding dress shopping can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. It is important to choose the right people to bring along on your shopping weekend, as you want to feel supported and avoid feeling pressured.
Firstly, consider bringing your closest friends or family members, often referred to as your "bride tribe". These are the people who will offer honest opinions and help you find a dress that suits your personal style and body type. Remember, it is your day, and your opinion matters the most! It is recommended to keep the group small to avoid too many conflicting opinions, which can be overwhelming.
Secondly, consider bringing people who align with your budget. If you are working with a specific budget or price range, inform your consultant beforehand, and ensure that your companions are aware of this as well. This way, they can help you stay within your budget and avoid any unnecessary pressure or temptation to overspend.
Thirdly, bring people who can offer a fresh perspective. Wedding dress shopping is different from everyday shopping, and it is beneficial to try on a variety of gowns, fabrics, and styles. Your companions can encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and consider options you might not have initially chosen.
Lastly, bring people who will make the experience enjoyable and memorable. Wedding dress shopping should be a fun and special time, so choose companions who will lift your spirits and create lasting memories with you.
Remember to also keep in mind the number of appointments and boutiques you plan to visit during the weekend. You don't want to cram too many into a day, as this can be exhausting and make it difficult to remember your favourite dresses and experiences from each shop.
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Alterations
Wedding dress alterations are an essential part of the wedding dress shopping process. Even if you purchase a dress that is close to your size, alterations are often needed to ensure a perfect fit. This may include adjusting the bust, taking in the waist, or ensuring the hem length is correct. According to Tina Zimmerman, director of alterations at Kleinfeld Bridal, "Every wedding dress needs alterations".
Wedding dress alterations are typically done during a wedding dress fitting with a professional seamstress or tailor. The number of fittings will depend on the number of changes required, but most brides will require two to three fittings. It is recommended that you begin the alterations process six to ten weeks before the wedding, to allow time for all the fittings and any additional appointments that may be needed.
The cost of alterations can vary, but professionals say the total will usually be between $650 and $1200. The cost will depend on factors such as the professional's experience, the time the project takes, the market value of their service, and the approach they take.
When choosing a seamstress or tailor, it is important to find someone you trust and to allow them to guide you through the process. You can ask your bridal boutique for recommendations, as many will have an in-house seamstress or will be able to recommend a trusted tailor.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended that you start wedding dress shopping between nine months to a year before your wedding date. This will give you enough time to find your dream dress without feeling rushed.
It is important not to overwhelm yourself by booking too many appointments in a day or over a weekend. Seeing too many dresses in a short space of time can make it difficult to remember what you liked about each dress.
Saturday is the busiest day at bridal salons, so it is recommended to book an appointment during the week if possible. This will give you more time with a bridal consultant and a less crowded experience.
You should visit as many shops as you think carry gowns that you could see yourself in. However, some brides find their dream dress on their first appointment, so there is no need to oversaturate yourself with options.
It is a good idea to do some research on wedding dress styles and designer prices before you go shopping. You should also be prepared to try on a variety of dresses and be open to recommendations from your bridal consultant. Additionally, you should wear comfortable clothing and avoid spray tanning before your appointment.
