Shopping for your wedding dress is undeniably one of the most exciting parts of planning your big day. But before you step into a dreamy bridal boutique filled with tulle, lace, and sequins, there are a few essential things to remember to make your appointment a success. Whether you’re weeks away from the search or just getting started, explore these things to consider before your wedding dress appointment.
Schedule Appointments in Advance
Once you’ve narrowed down your boutique choices, make bookings in advance. Bridal shops often operate by appointment to provide a dedicated, personalized experience. Planning your visit ahead also gives you and the stylist enough time to work together to find (or maybe even design) the perfect dress.
Bring Inspiration
Walking into an appointment with visuals of dresses you adore makes a difference. Save some screenshots, create vision boards, or even tear magazine pages. Having those inspirations handy helps your stylist understand your taste and guide you to options you’re bound to love. If you’re considering designing a custom wedding dress, visuals also give you a starting point to discuss ideas.
Decide Who To Bring
Carefully thinking about who to invite to your appointment goes a long way. Some people prefer a crowd, while others thrive with just one or two supportive family members or close friends. Whoever you bring, make sure they’re honest but kind, as their opinions can heavily influence how you feel about your choices.
Set a Budget and Stick to It
Getting swept up in the excitement of wedding dresses is easy, so it’s important to establish a budget before your appointment. Remember, you’ll also want to factor in additional costs like accessories and wedding dress alterations. By knowing your limits, you’ll save yourself from falling for a gown that isn’t realistically attainable.
Be Open to Different Styles
While having a particular silhouette in mind is great, staying open to trying on various styles can lead to surprises. You might think you’re all about A-lines, but find yourself falling for a dramatic mermaid cut instead. Part of the fun is exploring different looks and finding the one that makes you light up.
Consider the Venue and Theme
Before you get attached to a certain dress, think about the vibe you’re going for on your wedding day. Are you getting married in a rustic barn, on a sunny beach, or at a fancy ballroom? Your venue and theme can influence what kind of dress feels right. A flowing bohemian gown might suit a garden party, while a sleek satin number could complement a city-chic affair.
Ask About Alterations and Lead Times
When you’ve found “the one,” ask the boutique about their process for wedding dress alterations and how long the turnaround time is. Dresses often require adjustments to fit perfectly, and knowing the timeline allows you to plan fittings without the stress of cutting it too close.
Don’t Be Afraid To Say No
If a dress doesn’t feel perfect, saying no is okay. Trust your instincts and how a dress makes you feel. The right one will look stunning and feel like an extension of you. Remember, you deserve nothing less than a dress that you adore.
Finding your dream dress doesn’t have to be stressful. With these wedding dress appointment tips in mind, you’ll feel confident and prepared to make the most of your appointment. Now, it’s time to go say yes to the dress.
