LOCAL BRIDAL BOUTIQUES: They are the locally owned shop that is usually near your neighborhood. While they often have fewer dresses to try on, they can provide a personal touch and are on top of what brides in your area are wearing. If you let them know your florist, venue, etc, they will be familiar with it and this gives them a sense of your style.
DESTINATION SALONS: These are the places girls travel from all over to shop at, like Klienfeld's in New York (ever see "Say Yes To The Dress"?). They are massive, and they offer a well-trained staff as well as lots of designer dresses. Sometimes, the designers are even on site! If you decide to travel to choose a gown, make sure you book your appointment early, since these shops are very popular.
MASS-MARKET RETAILERS: These are the David's Bridal-type shops. Because they can mass-produce gowns, the prices are often very reasonable. They also carry gowns in your size, which are not samples. This is good for anyone who is not a size 8-10 (the usual sample size). They also have some great sales, so if your budget is thin, this might be a good place to look for your gown.
DEPARTMENT STORES: Nordstrom, Lord & Taylor, Macy's, even JCPenney have a bridal dress selection. The advantage to these stores is that you shop in a familiar surrounding, and they have folks who work there that are versed in both ready-to-wear and bridal. But before you rush out to your local department store, call and find out if they have a bridal department, so you don't waste a trip!
DESIGNER-OWNED BOUTIQUES: If you are interested in a specific designer, this might be the route for you. They have luxurious studios and personalized service. But be prepared to pay a high price for a gown from one of these studios, but they do have sample sales on occasion!
ONLINE RETAILERS: Purchasing a dress that is delivered right to your front door, and sometimes at a really inexpensive price sounds like a dream come true! But then again, think carefully; avoid any company that's not an authorized dealer, and remember you won't get to try it on or check it over before you buy it. Also, finding someone to alter it might be tricky, since many tailors aren't experienced in altering gowns. But if you're interested in a simple gown, or even a vintage gown, you might be able to find your dream online!
LOCAL DRESSMAKERS: Ah, a custom dress! You bring in your ideas, pictures and photos, and you talk with the dressmaker who works up a dress just for you! It's great, but beware: you could be disappointed. Make sure your dressmaker has experience making wedding gowns and check her references. It's not a bad idea to ask to see samples of her work, too.
So take some time to make some decisions before you shop. Some things to consider:
~ Is having a "one-of-a-kind" gown important to you? Then consider a designer studio or a dressmaker.
~ Do you really, really want a designer gown? Then you'll want to try either a designer studio or a destination salon.
~ Is your budget very tight, and you're looking to save money? Then you may want to check out a mass-retailer or shop online.
~ Do you dread looking in bridal shops? Then shopping at a department store may be for you.
~ Is it important for you to have personal service and want to stay close to home? Then you'll probably want to shop at a local boutique.
And one last tip, from Bride's Magazine: If you can swing it, shop on a weekday. Because the staff won't be so busy, the rhythm of the shop will be calmer, and you'll probably get much more personal attention.
Some information for this blog was taken from Bride's Magazine, February, 2011.
Shopping for a gown is just one component of a fabulous wedding! If you want a wonderful day without the worry, give me a call or text at 513-407-7165. If you've got it under control but just want someone there on the big day to keep things running smoothly, I'd love to help! You can comment on this post, text or call, or e-mail at innobrations@yahoo.com.
NEXT TIME: What every bride should know about marriage licenses and changing her name.
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