For many brides, finding the perfect wedding dress is an essential part of planning their special day. As a loved one or friend accompanying the bride during her wedding dress shopping, it’s important to make the experience a memorable and enjoyable one. This article aims to help you understand how to make wedding dress shopping special for the bride, by providing you with valuable insights and tips.
Wedding dress shopping can initially feel overwhelming and stressful for the bride, with numerous styles and designs to choose from, and often high expectations to meet. By offering a supportive role and understanding the bride’s needs, you can assist in alleviating that stress. Keep in mind that the bride’s emotions can be heightened and sensitive during this time, so focus on keeping the shopping experience positive, comforting, and confidence-boosting.
Along with the bride’s needs in mind, it’s crucial to create an atmosphere that enables her to enjoy the process and feel comfortable making decisions. This might involve encouraging her to try on a range of different styles, offering constructive feedback, and allowing her space to form her own opinions. Remember that making wedding dress shopping special for the bride takes teamwork, communication, and empathy. Now, let’s delve deeper into practical ways you can make this day unforgettable.
Setting the Date and Budget
Choose the Right Time
When planning your wedding dress shopping experience, picking the right time is essential. Allow yourself a window of 9-12 months before the wedding to start your search. This time frame will let you explore various styles, visit multiple boutiques and accommodate any alterations that may be needed.
Consider the time of year when making appointments. The peak seasons for bridal shopping are generally January through March and July through September. If possible, try to schedule appointments during off-peak times to benefit from a less crowded and more relaxed experience.
Determine a Budget
Setting a budget for your wedding dress is important to avoid unnecessary financial stress. Consider the following aspects when determining your budget:
- Dress cost: Research the average prices of wedding dresses in your area to get an idea of what to expect.
- Alterations: Factor in the cost of potential alterations, which can be a significant part of the overall expense.
- Accessories: Include accessories such as veils, jewellery, and shoes in your budget.
Here’s a breakdown of possible costs:
| Item | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Dress | £2,500-£7,000 |
| Alterations | £500-£1000 |
| Accessories | £300-£800 |
Having a clear and realistic budget before starting your wedding dress search will help you navigate the process more efficiently and ensure you find the perfect dress without breaking the bank.
Selecting a Bridal Shop
Research Stores
Before you begin the wedding dress shopping, it’s important to research various bridal shops to find the one that best suits your needs and preferences. Check their websites and social media platforms for reviews, photos, and information about the designers they stock. You can also ask friends or family members for recommendations based on their own experiences.
It may be helpful to create a list of shops that offer the styles and price range you are looking for. This will save you time and effort in visiting stores that don’t suit your requirements.
Book Appointments
Once you have narrowed down your list of potential bridal shops, it’s time to begin booking appointments. Keep in mind that some shops may charge a fee for appointments, particularly during peak wedding seasons or weekends.
When booking an appointment, inquire about any specific policies or limitations they may have, such as the duration of the appointment or the number of guests allowed. Additionally, ask about any ongoing sales or special events that might be happening on your preferred appointment date.
Remember to book your appointments in advance, as popular shops can fill up quickly. By planning ahead, you’ll ensure a smooth and enjoyable shopping experience for the bride.
Preparing for the Appointment
Gather Inspiration
Before you head to the bridal shop, spend some time gathering inspiration for your dream wedding dress. Browse through wedding magazines, blogs, and social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram. Save your favourite styles, materials, and details to create a mood board. This will help narrow down your choices and give you a clear vision to communicate with the shop stylist.
Dress Code and Comfort
Consider the venue, theme, and dress code of your wedding when selecting a gown. For a beach wedding, opt for lightweight fabrics like chiffon, while for a winter wedding, consider warmer materials such as velvet. Keep in mind the level of comfort you desire; you’ll be wearing the dress for several hours on your big day, and you want to feel your best. Discuss your preferences with the stylist, who can suggest gowns that meet your requirements.
- Lightweight fabrics:
- Chiffon
- Lace
- Tulle
- Heavier fabrics:
- Satin
- Velvet
- Brocade
Scheduling a Fitting
To make the most of your appointment, book it well in advance to avoid conflicting schedules. Keep in mind that you might need multiple fittings to ensure the perfect fit for your chosen gown. It’s important to have enough time for any necessary alterations, especially if your wedding date is approaching fast. Bringing supportive friends or family members can make the experience more enjoyable and provide you with valuable feedback.
Who to Bring Along
Choose the Right People
When it comes to wedding dress shopping, it’s essential to choose the right people to accompany the bride. Be selective about who to invite, considering close family members and friends who genuinely have the bride’s best interests at heart. These individuals should be supportive, honest, and positive throughout the process.
Limit the Numbers
Keeping the group small is crucial for a stress-free experience. A smaller entourage allows the bride to focus more on her preferences and prevents an overwhelming amount of opinions. Generally, it’s advised to limit the number of people to three or four key individuals who understand the bride’s taste and can provide constructive feedback.
By carefully selecting the right people and limiting the entourage size, a bride can make her wedding dress shopping experience enjoyable and memorable.
During the Appointment
Trust the Consultant
During the appointment, it’s essential for the bride to trust the bridal consultant. After all, these professionals have experience in assisting brides in finding their perfect dress. Listen to their advice and be open to trying on dresses they suggest as they have a keen eye for selecting gowns that suit your body type, budget and personal taste. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, as they are there to guide and support you throughout the process.
Try on Various Styles
When attending the appointment, make sure to try on a variety of wedding dress styles. This is an excellent opportunity for the bride to experiment with different silhouettes, fabrics and embellishments, which can help her to get a feel for what works best on her body and complements her personality.
- A-line: Flattering for all body types, creating a slimming effect
- Ball gown: Adds drama and emphasizes the waist
- Mermaid: Accentuates curves, suitable for confident brides
- Sheath: Follows the natural shape of the body, ideal for minimalist brides
Remember to keep an open mind as some dresses may not look as impressive on the hanger, but turn out to be stunning once worn. Trying on various styles will ultimately help the bride make an informed decision and find the ideal wedding dress for her special day.
Making the Final Decision
Customisation Options
When making the final decision, it’s important to explore potential customisation options that can enhance the chosen wedding dress. Here are a few suggestions:
- Consider adding lace or beading to make the dress more intricate and personalised
- If the gown requires alterations for a perfect fit, consult with a professional seamstress or dressmaker
- Explore the possibility of adding a belt, sash, or ribbon to accentuate the waistline
Keep these factors in mind when making the final decision, and remember that a wedding dress can be part of the creative expression of the bride’s unique personality and style.
After the Purchase
Schedule Fittings
Once the wedding dress has been purchased, it is essential to schedule fittings. Begin by arranging the first fitting about 2-3 months before the big day. This allows sufficient time for any alterations. It is best to attend the fitting with your bridal shoes and accessories, including the appropriate undergarments, so you can get an accurate idea of the final look.
Next, schedule a second fitting about 4-6 weeks prior to the wedding, so any further adjustments can be made. However, if there have been significant changes in the bride’s bodyweight, it is necessary to communicate with the boutique or seamstress earlier to ensure any required alterations can be accommodated.
Remember to keep the dress in a protective bag and store it in a cool and dry place to maintain its pristine condition leading up to the wedding.
Preserving the Memory
After the event, it’s important to preserve the memory of the wedding dress. Consider getting the gown professionally cleaned by a trusted specialist, as they have the expertise to remove stains and restore it to its original beauty. Following the cleaning, it is crucial to store the dress in a specially-designed preservation bag, which will defend against damaging elements such as moisture, dust, and light.
Lastly, storing the dress in a well-ventilated, cool, and dark space will ensure its long-lasting preservation. Avoid areas of extreme temperature or humidity, as these can cause deterioration. By taking these steps, you can maintain the dress’s beauty, allowing it to be cherished for years to come.
