Once you have the ring it is time to start your bridal gown research. Start by purchasing a magazine or flipping through gown pictures on the internet. Rip out or print gowns that interest you even if you do not like everything about the gown. Be open minded. You will not know how they will look on you until you try them. Be realistic about your body and the types of gowns that will flatter you. It is also important not to eliminate too many styles before you actually get a chance to try them on.
Time to go shopping! When possible get personal recommendations of shops to visit in your area. Make plans to try on gowns at two or three bridal shops. Call or check out the shop’s website before visiting to get an idea of the type of gowns and price ranges they carry. You may also need to make an appointment. Some tips to remember when planning your shopping trip:
- Bring only a few well trusted friends or family members – the type of person who will be honest with you but also respect your vision.
- Bring your gown ideas – the pictures you’ve torn from magazines or printed from the internet.
- Bring your camera. Photographs will come in handy when you are comparing your favorite gowns. However, not all shops will allow pictures.
- Don’t visit more than two or three shops in a day. Gown shopping is supposed to be fun, not torture.
- Make sure to take time for a lunch or snack break during your day of shopping.
- Don’t settle on a dress you don’t love or a shop you don’t feel comfortable with. Shop until everything feels right. If you’re in love with a dress but don’t care for the store you’ve found it at, find another store that can get the dress and offer you the service you want.
Have fun!!
Jeri
