It's All About the Gown

Every bride knows she has to eventually venture into the world of wedding gowns.  Depending on the bride this can cause a sense of barely containable excitement or overwhelming fear and dread.   No matter which side of the fence she is on the dress is an important (if not most important) detail of the wedding. How you come down the aisle will be a part of your guest’s memories for several years.  It will also be a important factor in whether your wedding is a success or a flop.  There are tips for wedding dress shopping to make your important decision a little less cumbersome.

1. Have a budget and stick to it.  Nothing is worse than falling in love with a dress you can’t afford; if you have a budget in mind the consultant won’t pull dresses that you can’t afford.  This small step can help you avoid a world of disappointment.  
2. Know your body type.  Buying a wedding dress is similar to buying any other piece of clothing.  Dresses are made to flatter certain figures and knowing your body type can make a world of difference.  This website http://www.style-makeover-hq.com/body-shape.html can help you determine your body type if you don’t know it. 
3. Wear the proper undergarments.  Undergarments can make a world of difference in the fit of your wedding dress.  Most dresses are made with built in corsets or body slimmers, but it doesn’t mean you can skimp on the proper bra and underwear.  Be sure to get fitted for a bra that fits correctly and compliments your dress style. ( i.e strapless dress-strapless bra) If it has been more than a year since the last time you were fitted for a bra make sure you get fitted again to ensure a proper fit.  To find a bra fit specialist near you: http://intimg.3by400.com/images/stories/intimacy-retailers.pdf 
4. Have an open mind.  How it looks on the hanger is no sign of how it will look on you.  Be open to trying on different styles and designers.  The dream dress you found in the bridal magazine may not be the perfect dress for you. 
5.  Less is more.  Try to limit your entourage to a 2-4 people who truly have your best interests at heart.  Taking a gang of people dress shopping can make a overwhelming experience almost unbearable.  There are several events that will take place during the course of your planning where you can invite friends and family.  Dress shopping is not the best environment for family gathering if puts unneeded pressure on you and your dress consultant to please such a large group.  Remember you’re the bride and you must be happy even if others are unhappy.  
6. Ask about policies and guidelines.  Ask the bridal salon where you are purchasing the gown what is their payment policy, how long will it take for your dress to arrive from order date, how much are alterations, if there is a flaw with the dress what is their return exchange policy.  If the store has their policies in writing be sure to obtain a copy.  
7.  Avoid crash diets or extreme weight loss techniques.  Once you purchase your dress try not to go on a diet.  Losing or gaining weight can affect the fit of your dress and add additional costs later for alterations.  If you want to lose weight do it before you go wedding dress shopping. 

If you follow these guidelines dress shopping should be a happy and joyous occasion.  I hope all of you knock em’ dead with your dress selections.