~ Think about what you'd like before you hit the stores. What kind of neckline do you like? What about the length? Do you prefer a ball gown (a full skirt) or a more fitted style? How long would you like your train?
~ Just because it looks fabulous in a magazine doesn't mean it looks fabulous on you. Brides come in every size and shape. Models are tall and very thin, and fashion photography is sometimes airbrushed. Be realistic about your expectations, but try that dream gown on anyway...it might just be the one!
~ Limit yourself to three stores. If you try on hundreds of dresses, you'll just wind up more confused than ever. Keeping to just three stores will let you see a variety of designers and salespeople without being overwhelmed.
~ Take just your mom and maybe a friend. Don't take a whole group - everyone has a different opinion and there is bound to be some who like the gown you love, and those who don't. Choose your dress, then take everyone to see it at your fittings. That way, you'll feel the love without the opinions!
~ Don't try on a gown that's out of your price range. It's too emotionally painful to fall in love with a dress that you just plain can't have. Let the salesperson know your price limits before you even look at a gown. Keep in mind that embellishments like lace and pearls drive up the price. You may want to consider something plainer that drapes lovely and doesn't need all the bells and whistles.
~ Be aware that the salesperson will be in the dressing room with you. Bridal salons have to purchase the samples that they have in stock, so they will want to help you into the gown to avoid damage to the dress. At some point, they will want to sell it, so they want to keep it in good shape. Not only that, getting in a gown usually requires some help. Don't get creeped out - they help brides out on dresses every day.
~ Listen to the salesperson! They see hundreds of brides, and they often can recommend things that you maybe didn't think of or didn't consider. They WANT to sell you a dress - they will help you in any way they can!
~ If the salesperson makes you uncomfortable, you don't have to work with them. Ask for another salesperson, or shop at another store.
~ Bring the right stuff to the shop. Wear nice but modest underwear (can you imagine being a salesperson having to look at a thong? Ick!), a strapless bra, and a shoe with the heel height you prefer. Make sure you shave both your armpits and your legs, that way you won't be embarassed. If you're thinking of wearing your hair up, a barette or clip would be great to have on hand. A good idea is to call ahead and ask if you are allowed to take photos of the dresses you like - some shops are okay with it, some are not. It's best to find out ahead of time.
~ If you're a plus sized bride, don't fret. There are shops that cater to larger sizes, and most shops have clips and such to help you try on the dress you like, even if it's a size or two too small. Don't limit yourself because of size - be open to everything!
~ Avoid a spontaneous decision. Salespeople often work on commission, so they'll want to close the sale that day. It's a good idea, even if it's THE dress, to think about it overnight, and talk about it with your mom. Then, when you put down the non-refundable down payment, you'll be confident that you made the right choice!
Next time, at this blog..."Why On Earth Are Wedding Dresses So Gosh Darn Expensive?"
There's more to a wedding than just a dress. If you need some guidance and help jumping the hoops of planning an unforgettable wedding, please give me a call or send me a text at 513-407-7165. I can help you as much or as little as you like! You can also respond to this post, or send me an e-mail at innobrations@yahoo.com. I'd love to chat!
Information based on an article in Bride's Magazine, February, 2011
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