Junior Rasmussen
Wedding dress shopping can be an exciting yet daunting experience. It is important to do some research beforehand to establish a baseline of likes and dislikes. Pinterest and Instagram are great places to start getting ideas. It is also helpful to know your budget as wedding dresses can be expensive, and you don't want to fall in love with a dress that is out of your price range. Most people visit two different stores and try on around seven dresses before making a selection, but there is no need to rush this special experience. It is also a good idea to bring a friend or family member to take photos and videos of you in the dresses, as this can help you see angles that you might not notice in the mirror.
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What You'll Learn
Do your research and prepare in advance
Wedding dress shopping can be an overwhelming experience, but doing some research and preparing in advance can help you feel more confident and make the most of your appointments. Here are some tips to get you started:
Do Your Research
Before your appointment, spend some time researching wedding dress styles and designers. Pinterest and Instagram are great sources of inspiration and can help you identify trends and styles that resonate with you. Look for silhouettes, colours, fabrics, and other design elements that appeal to you. You can also explore different designers and their collections to get a sense of the latest trends and find local stockists. This research will give you a baseline of likes and dislikes, making it easier to communicate your preferences to your bridal consultant.
Understand Wedding Dress Sizing
Wedding dress sizes differ significantly from standard clothing sizes, so don't be surprised or discouraged by the size labels. Nearly everyone needs alterations, and the sample dresses you try on are typically not meant to fit perfectly off the rack. Keep an open mind and focus on finding a style that flatters your body type and makes you feel confident.
Know Your Budget
Wedding dresses can vary widely in price, so it's essential to have a clear budget in mind before you start shopping. This will help you avoid falling in love with a dress that's out of your price range. Also, consider the cost of alterations and ask about potential bundle deals, as some salons offer discounts when you purchase your gown, veil, and accessories together.
Prepare Practicalities
There are a few practical considerations to keep in mind before your appointment. Firstly, eat something beforehand, as trying on wedding dresses can be physically tiring. Choose comfortable and seamless underwear, and minimise makeup and fake tan to avoid staining the samples. If you have long hair, bring a hair tie to keep it out of the way during the try-on process.
Choose Your Companions Wisely
Decide who you want to bring to your appointment carefully. It's important to have supportive and honest companions who will respect your opinions and help you feel at ease. Remember, this is your special moment, so choose companions who will uplift and support you throughout the process.
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What to wear and bring
Wedding dress shopping is an exciting and pivotal part of wedding planning. Here are some tips on what to wear and bring to ensure you have a successful and memorable experience:
What to Wear
It is recommended to wear something comfortable and easy to change in and out of. A simple button-up shirt or a loose-fitting dress is a good option as it will help you slip in and out of gowns without messing up your hair or makeup. Avoid excessive jewellery or accessories that might snag on delicate fabrics or interfere with the silhouette of the dresses.
If you plan on wearing shapewear or specific underwear on your wedding day, it is a good idea to bring and wear these to your appointment. This will give you a more accurate picture of how your chosen gown will look and feel. Neutral-coloured, seamless underwear is recommended to avoid any bunching or friction with the gowns.
Comfortable shoes are also important, as you may be standing or walking for long periods. If you already know what shoes you will be wearing on your wedding day, bring them along! This will help you see how the gown will fit and move with your chosen footwear.
What to Bring
Bring a pair of heels similar in height to what you plan to wear on your wedding day. This will give you an idea of how each gown's length will look and feel. Don't forget a pair of comfortable flats as well, for when you're not modelling a specific dress.
A hair tie or clip is also recommended to keep your hair up and out of the way when trying on gowns. This will help you visualise the neckline of the dresses and keep you cool. If you plan on wearing a particular hairstyle on your wedding day, consider emulating this style during your appointment.
Lastly, bring a positive and open mindset! Wedding dress shopping is a special moment, and many brides end up choosing a gown that surprises them. Trust your gut and enjoy the experience.
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How many shops and appointments to book
Wedding dress shopping can be an exciting but overwhelming experience. It is important to do some research beforehand to get an idea of what you want. Pinterest and Instagram are great places to start looking for inspiration. Once you have an idea of the styles and shapes you like, you can look for local stockists and book an appointment.
It is recommended to book only two appointments in one day. One in the morning and one in the afternoon. This will give you time to rest and reflect on the dresses you tried on and liked. It is also important to be mindful of the bridal stylists' time, as they spend an average of an hour and a half to two hours with a bride.
On average, brides visit two different stores and try on seven different dresses before making a selection. However, this may vary, and it is important to remember that there is no rush to find the perfect dress. Take your time and enjoy the experience.
If you are looking to save money, consider shopping at a trunk show or sample sale. These events offer designer gowns at discounted prices. It is also a good idea to ask salons about potential bundle deals, as purchasing your gown, veil, and accessories together can lead to considerable savings.
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Budgeting and discounts
Wedding dress shopping can be a daunting task, but with careful budgeting and a few money-saving tricks, you can find your dream dress without breaking the bank. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your budget:
Know Your Budget and Stick to It:
Start by determining your budget for the wedding dress. Be realistic and set a budget that you are comfortable with. It's important to stick to your budget to avoid any financial strain.
Do Your Research:
Before you start shopping, take some time to research wedding dresses online. Pinterest and Instagram are great platforms to discover different styles and designers. This will give you a sense of the current trends and help you identify designers whose styles resonate with you.
Shop at Trunk Shows and Sample Sales:
Trunk shows and sample sales offer a fantastic opportunity to score a designer gown at a discounted price. Trunk shows usually include a discount on dresses purchased during the event, and you get to shop the designer's entire collection. Sample sales also allow you to purchase sample gowns at a lower price, but note that these may require more extensive alterations.
Bundle Your Purchases:
Many bridal salons offer discounts if you purchase your gown, veil, and accessories together. This not only simplifies your wedding planning but can also lead to significant savings. Ask your salon about potential bundle deals to maximize your budget.
Factor in Alteration Costs:
Keep in mind that alterations are often necessary to ensure your gown fits perfectly. These alterations can add to the overall cost, so be sure to factor them into your budget. Discuss the alteration process with your stylist to understand the potential costs involved.
Avoid Impulse Buying:
It's easy to get swept away in the excitement of wedding dress shopping, but try to avoid impulse buying. Take your time to consider your options and don't feel pressured to make a decision on the spot. Remember, you don't have to say yes to a dress at your first appointment.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your budget and find a wedding dress that checks all your boxes without compromising your financial goals. Happy shopping!
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Who to bring
Wedding dress shopping can be an exciting yet daunting experience. It is completely normal to feel anxious about finding the perfect dress. To make the experience more enjoyable, it is important to choose your companions wisely. Here are some tips on who to bring along:
Your support system:
Surround yourself with people who make you feel comfortable and supported. This could include your mother, sister, best friend, or anyone else you feel close to. Their presence can help ease your nerves and make the experience more fun. However, be mindful of your dynamic with them. If you anticipate butting heads over differing opinions, it may be better to include them in other wedding-related activities.
A photographer:
Consider bringing a friend or family member who can take photos and videos of you in the dresses. These visual references can be incredibly helpful when you're deciding which dress is "the one." They can capture angles that you may not see in the mirror, giving you a more comprehensive perspective.
A stylist:
If you're feeling indecisive or overwhelmed, consider booking an appointment with a bridal stylist. They are trained to put you at ease and guide you through the process. Come prepared with a concise list of questions for them, covering aspects such as the creation timeline, alteration process, delivery details, and dress preparation for the big day.
Yourself:
It is perfectly fine to go wedding dress shopping alone. This way, you can focus on your own opinions and preferences without external influences. You can take your time, reflect on your feelings about each dress, and make decisions independently.
A compromise:
If you want a balance between solitude and company, consider a compromise. You can start by going to a few appointments alone to get a sense of your likes and dislikes. Then, bring your trusted companions along to subsequent appointments, where you can benefit from their insights and support while still maintaining a sense of independence in your decision-making process.
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Frequently asked questions
On average, brides visit two different stores and try on seven different dresses before making a selection. However, every bride is different, so don't be discouraged if it takes longer to find your dream dress. It's recommended to make only two appointments in one day to avoid burnout.
It's helpful to do some research beforehand to establish a baseline of likes and dislikes. Pinterest and Instagram are great places to start getting ideas. You should also eat something before your appointment, as trying on wedding dresses can be tiring.
Bridal stylists and consultants spend an average of one and a half to two hours with a bride. You may be changing with your consultant in the dressing room, so be prepared for that. You don't have to buy a dress at your appointment, so don't feel pressured. Take photos and videos of yourself in the dresses to review later.
