Yes wedding dress shopping is a big deal, but remember, your wedding should be about you as a couple. After all, you are marrying the person of your dreams, right? It should be a fun and exciting experience! Here are a few tips from Paar to help you with your special day.
Be Prepared
Whether you are looking in magazines or creating a board on pinterest, collecting images and designs that you love is a great way to let your bridal consultant know what YOU like. Also, know what your budget is and be clear with your consultant. I had a client that tried on a gown that she fell in love with only to find out it was way out of her budget. Sad face.
The Right Bridal Boutique
You know that feeling you get when you walk into a place and it just feels right? Cozy maybe? Warm and comforting? Or, maybe just plain old happy with a pinch of excitement?! You should feel this way when you enter your chosen bridal boutique. Finding the right bridal consultant or stylist is important as well. As you start choosing and trying on dresses, you will need to build trust with your consultant and feel comfortable during the fittings. They are there to help and guide you through this process- remember they are the experts and are a wealth of knowledge. You just never know, they may end up becoming your Anthony to your Charlotte.
Your Fitting
Who do you want with you when you say yes to the dress? Family? Friends? Be thoughtful in your decision, as you most likely will not want the pushy sister, your opinionated mother-in-law, or your entire 10 person bridal party. Although a big bridal dress shopping party may sound fun, too many opinions can be confusing and annoying. Bring your mother or one or two trusted friends. This is your day, and you can do whatever you want.
And Another Thing
Try, try and try again…I cannot stress the importance of trying on dresses. Yes, that is plural;) DRESSES. Even the ones that might not be ‘love at first sight’, because you never know what a dress will look like on YOUR body, until you try it on. Go in with an open mind and try on things you might not have. The worst that can happen is that you find out the dress isn’t for you and you move on to the next dress.
Timelines and Tiaras
Start thinking about this a year before the big day. Look at what you are drawn to and what you would like. You should have your dress purchased 6-8 months before your wedding. We recommend that you start looking to get your dress altered at least 3-4 months before your wedding (if need be). This can be a large expense, (especially for a dress that you only wear once!), so enjoy the process so that you don’t put yourself in a position where you might have to compromise. This should be one of the most enjoyable and memorable experiences you have while planning your wedding.
And Last but not Least
Your wedding dress should be an extension of your style and who you are. Have fun and do not fall pressure to trends and others expectations. Think about what you want and what is important to you. Choosing the right style, design and fabric, can be easy when you listen to your inner voice and choose something that makes you feel special. Comfort is paramount, as when a bride feels comfortable, this translates into confidence and then to beauty. So if you feel good, you’ll look beautiful too!
Ask yourself, what do you wear day-to-day? Now take that and elevate it. Any questions? Send us a note in the comments. Want to show us your dream dress? Send us a picture- we just love the inspo.
Paar 