How to shop like a pro…
Planning a wedding is exciting for any bride. You’ve just said “yes” to your dream man and now have a shiny new addition! When it’s time to start searching for THE dress, it may seem easier to say “I do” to your partner than to a dress. If you’re not sure where to start, don’t stress! We’ve got the inside scoop that will help make your “yes to the dress” moment as perfect as the dress you choose.
Secure Your Venue
This is something we find brides neglect to think about prior to dress shopping, but it’s important for a couple of reasons. Selecting your venue will not only set the tone for your entire day, but it may have a dictation in what you wear. It also will give you a clear timeline for ordering and alterations.
Do Your Research
Social media and the internet will be your best friend to help determine which styles you like. Finding a dress you connect with in a photo is great. However, most stores stock select pieces from each designer collection they carry. If you’ve been eyeing one but can seem to find it in a local store, don’t fret!. Just ask about a “loaner gown”. This is a sample dress that designers will send specifically for you to try on, for a small fee. Researching ahead of time could give you the edge you need to say “yes” on your first visit!
Set A Budget for the Dress
This is an important one, ladies! When you know what you’re comfortable spending, it’ll help you stay focused and avoid falling in love with a gown that you simply can’t afford. Designers don’t often put pricing online; this makes things difficult because the price range for bridal gowns really varies. Best practice after you find a designer you’re interested in? Call a local retailer to get pricing.
Avoid Online Retailers
You know the saying, “if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is?” The same rule applies here! In an effort to save money, some brides will turn to the internet to try and find competitive pricing. Our advice is to proceed with caution. Often times you’ll find a gown on counterfeit sites that will use the photo from the designer’s website to trick brides. What you end up receiving is a knock off that will bring a tear to your eye (not in the misty, happy way). Only shop at retailers listed on the designer’s official website as this will provide direct retailers and ensure you’re not getting ripped off. Looking for a deal? Consider a trunk show! These are offered at bridal salons and give you an opportunity for slight discounts on special order dresses. Save that money!
Have an Open Mind
Trust your stylist; they have a great understanding of their inventory and work with all different body types! It’s also important to speak your mind. It’s okay to tell your stylist if you don’t like something, you won’t hurt their feelings. Remember any information you give, positive or negative, will bring you that much closer to finding your dream dress. Your dress fitting session should be a collaborative experience!
Start Early
If you haven’t realized it yet, shopping for a wedding dress is a complicated process. Let me break it down: the average shipping time for a bridal gown is 4 to 6 months and most bridal salons recommend 2 to 3 months to complete alterations. That’s a 6 to 9-month lead time before factoring in your shopping period! One of the saddest reasons to have to pass on your dream gown is not having enough time!
Limit the Entourage
The squad you bring with you can make or break your entire bridal shopping experience. Be very selective on who accompanies you when you start shopping. All it takes is one snarky comment to ruin the vibe and end your appointment early!
Trust Your Gut about the Dress
You’ll know when it feels right, and it’s okay to “say yes” and stop shopping. The bridal magic is REAL!
Looking for your dress in the Orlando Area? Whether your style is Modern, Boho, Classic or somewhere in between, Solutions Bridal, Calvet Couture, and One & Only Bridal Boutique offer an amazing selection! They have lots of unique (and gorgeous) gowns from leaders in the bridal fashion industry, and not to mention a truly magical experience you’ll cherish as a bride!
