One of the most exciting (and sometimes daunting) parts of wedding planning is finding the one—your wedding dress! This is the dress you’ll wear when you walk down the aisle to marry the love of your life, and it’s bound to be one of the most memorable and beautiful moments of your wedding day.
The process of finding your wedding dress is both thrilling and sometimes overwhelming, with so many styles, fabrics, and designers to choose from. But don’t worry, with a little guidance and preparation, you’ll be ready to find the perfect gown that makes you feel like the best version of yourself on your special day.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the wedding dress shopping process with confidence and excitement!
Step 1: Start Early (But Not Too Early)
Wedding dresses typically take between 6 to 9 months to be made and shipped from the designer to the bridal boutique. Additionally, alterations may take several weeks to complete, so it’s ideal to start shopping at least 9-12 months before your wedding day. This will give you enough time to find your dress, order it, and schedule fittings without feeling rushed.
That said, don’t start too early—many bridal shops release their new collections a year in advance, and you want to make sure you’re not overwhelmed with too many options. Starting your search around the 12-month mark gives you plenty of time to find your dream dress without starting to feel stressed.
Step 2: Set a Realistic Budget
Before you head to bridal shops, it’s essential to establish a realistic wedding dress budget. Wedding dresses can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, so having a clear budget in mind will help narrow down your options and prevent you from falling in love with a dress that’s out of your price range.
Your wedding dress budget should include not just the cost of the dress itself, but also alterations, accessories (such as a veil, shoes, or jewelry), and any necessary undergarments (like shapewear). A common rule of thumb is to spend about 5-10% of your total wedding budget on your dress, but of course, this varies from couple to couple.
Step 3: Know Your Style and Preferences
Before you step into a bridal boutique, think about what kind of dress you envision for your wedding day. Here are a few questions to help you get started:
- Do you want a formal or casual dress?
- What silhouette do you prefer? A-line, ball gown, mermaid, sheath? Each style flatters different body types and offers its own unique look.
- What fabrics speak to you? Lace, satin, tulle, chiffon, and organza are just a few options. Think about the season of your wedding and what fabric feels most comfortable.
- Do you want sleeves, straps, or a strapless design?
- How important are the details? Are you drawn to intricate beadwork, simple elegance, or dramatic embellishments?
While it’s great to know your preferences, stay open-minded. Sometimes the dress you least expect might end up being the one.
Step 4: Research Bridal Shops and Designers
Start by researching bridal boutiques and designers in your area. Look for stores with good reviews and reputations for customer service, as this experience can make a big difference in how you feel during your appointment. Some bridal shops offer exclusive lines, while others may carry dresses from multiple designers, so choose one that aligns with your style and budget.
You can also check out bridal magazines, Instagram, and wedding websites like The Knot or Bridal Guide for inspiration. Make a Pinterest board or save your favorite gowns to help you visualize your style.
Some popular wedding dress designers include:
- Pronovias
- Vera Wang
- Amsale
- Lazaro
- Justin Alexander
- Hayley Paige
- David’s Bridal (for more budget-friendly options)
Don’t forget to call ahead or schedule appointments with bridal shops, as many boutiques require bookings and may have limited availability.
Step 5: Bring Your Support Squad (But Keep It Small)
When it’s time to go dress shopping, bring a small group of people whose opinions you trust. While it’s tempting to invite every friend or relative, having too many voices in the room can make the decision-making process more stressful.
- Bring your mom or a trusted family member: If your mom or a close family member is important to you, invite them for their emotional support.
- Consider bringing a maid of honor or close friend: Choose someone who knows your style and will give you honest feedback while being encouraging.
- Keep it small and intimate: More than 3-4 people can feel overwhelming. Too many opinions can muddy the decision-making process.
Remember, you’re the one who has to love your dress, so it’s important to choose people who will respect your choices and be supportive.
Step 6: Try on Different Styles
While it’s tempting to go straight for the style you think you want, be open to trying on a few different types of dresses. Many brides end up loving a style they never considered. Bridal consultants are experts at helping you find what flatters your body type and matches your vision, so trust their advice and try on a range of dresses.
- Take your time: Wedding dress shopping should be fun, so enjoy the process! Allow yourself to try on different styles and don’t rush through the appointment.
- Look at the details: Pay attention to the fabric, the neckline, the hemline, and how the dress fits your body. Think about how comfortable you feel and whether you can imagine yourself wearing it on your wedding day.
Step 7: Trust Your Instincts
You’ll know when you’ve found your dress! Trust your instincts and how you feel in the gown. When you try on “the one,” you’ll likely experience an emotional reaction—it might be tears, excitement, or even a calm confidence that this dress is it. Don’t overthink it!
If you’re still unsure, take photos and give yourself some time to reflect. Sometimes, the perfect dress might take a little while to grow on you.
Step 8: Finalize Your Decision and Order Your Dress
Once you’ve found the one, it’s time to make your purchase! Be sure to ask the boutique about the ordering process, delivery times, and any fitting adjustments needed. Most wedding dresses require at least one or two fittings to ensure the dress fits perfectly.
You’ll also need to pay a deposit when ordering the dress, with the final payment typically due when the dress arrives or closer to your wedding date.
In Conclusion:
Finding your wedding dress is a journey of excitement, exploration, and personal expression. While the process can feel overwhelming at times, with the right approach and a little patience, you’ll find the perfect dress that makes you feel beautiful, confident, and ready to say “I do!”
Remember, the best dress is the one that makes you feel like the most incredible version of yourself on your wedding day. Enjoy the process and trust that your perfect gown is out there waiting for you!
Happy shopping and happy planning,
Montanna Penland
