Quest for the Best

Beginning your search for the perfect wedding dress can be overwhelming but it doesn’t have to be that way. There are, however, many different things to remember before you start looking. Here are some tips to make your “quest for the dress” an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Before you head out…

~ As mentioned in the previous blog entry, have in mind a specific style of dress that you want – this will help narrow down your search before you even begin.

~ Ask only one or two people close to you (like your mother or one of the bridesmaids) whose opinions you trust to go with you to try dresses on…this way you aren’t getting caught up in too many different opinions

~ Don’t plan to try on dresses while you are on your period or PMSing. Many women experience bloating during this time and are maybe not their normal size.

~ If you have a certain piece of jewelry, an heirloom such as a veil, or some other item that it is important you wear on your wedding day, take that along with you when you try on dresses. You will want to make sure everything coordinates.

~ Make appointments at the different stores or boutiques where you plan on shopping for your gown. This assures that you have the attention of a sales consultant who may be very helpful in your “quest”. Just don’t put too much stock into their opinions – many are paid on commission and may be more intent on getting you to buy the more expensive dress rather than the one that is the most flattering on you.

~ Do not wear make-up when you’re going to try on dresses or at least call ahead to see if the stores will allow you to wear it. Some do not because they don’t want to risk the make-up getting on one of the gowns.

~Most importantly, give yourself as much time as possible to find the dress of your dreams. If you can, allow yourself nine months because fittings should begin at six months before the big day.

While you’re there…
~ Figure out which kind of dress looks best on your body type and narrow your search down to those dresses (as long as you like the style, of course!)

~ Take a look at bridesmaids dresses…not for your bridesmaids but for you. You may find one in white or off-white that would work just as well as a wedding dress but it will be much, much cheaper.

~ For goodness sake, find a dress that you FEEL COMFORTABLE in! This is so important! If you don’t want to be pulling up your dress all night, don’t buy a strapless gown. If you want to breathe easily, watch out for too much boning. You wouldn’t want your day to be ruined because of your dress!

~ This is so important too – buy a dress that feels like you. Don’t let yourself get talked into a dress you don’t like or isn’t your style by someone else. Find the dress that you love and that conveys your own personal style. You want to feel confident in your dress!