When it comes to planning your Big Day, there are countless decisions to make. As a bride-to-be, finding “the one” is one of the most fun. The bridal gown gurus at Maddison Row South have worked with countless brides and put together a list of their top 10 Tips for Finding Your Dream Dress. So, now that you have said “Yes!” to your sweetheart, it’s time to say “yes” to the wedding dress of your dreams.
Before the shopping begins, scroll down and take some advice from the pros.
1. Do Your Research
Doing a little research will help you feel more confident going into the gown shopping process. Peruse Pinterest and Instagram to get a sense of what you like. Once you have a sense of dresses you like, dig into the designers and see who your local boutiques carry – this will help you hone in on a starting point.
2. Know Your Body Type
All shapes and sizes should be celebrated. With infinite options across silhouettes, cuts, and fabrics, there is a gown that will flatter every inch of you and have you feeling like the leading lady you are on your wedding day. In order to find this perfect fit, it helps to know what you want to accentuate and downplay. Keep in mind that a benefit of a made-to-order is a gown is that it is commissioned based on your unique measurements – couple this with careful alterations and the end result is a gown fitting you like it was made for you…because it was.
3. Think of Your Venue
If you’re getting married on the beach, a big ball gown may not make the most sense for you – sand and tulle are not fast friends. If you already have selected the venue – or have your heart set on one – tell your stylist while trying on gowns so they can help you bring your whole vision together. Picturing yourself in your gown at your gorgeous venue makes choosing easier.
4. Consider Customization
It’s incredible how adding a sleeve or a sash can complete a look. Consider customization as an option – you may be delightfully surprised at how amazing and affordable some little tweaks or additions may be. Just ask and your stylist can help you understand potential options.
5. Allow Enough Time
Do yourself a great favor and be proactive in your bridal gown search. Yes, some designers offer rush orders (often with an up-charge), but this decision is not one you want rushed if it can be helped. Aim to start shopping and choosing your gown 6- 8 months before the Big Day. This leaves plenty of time for customizing, ordering, alterations and accessory pairing.
6. Know Your Budget
When it comes to any size wedding, planning a budget is a must because, as with most things in life, it is no fun to fall in love with something that is not attainable. When you sit down to plan your wedding, be sure to factor in your wedding dress. Pro Tip: Buffer a bit extra in your bridal gown budget to account for final alterations.
7. Be Selective With Your Entourage
Sometimes, less is more here. It may be tempting to bring the whole bride tribe with you when you shop, but many voices can make for noise, distraction and, ultimately, confusion. Consider choosing no more than 3 of your closest pals or family members whose opinion is really important to you. Many brides like to bring a couple friends for their first round of gown shopping and then come back with Mom and Grandma to narrow down their top choices.
8. Have An Open Mind
Almost every bride “knows” what she wants, but oftentimes, finds “the one” in an entirely different gown. Trying on a few different silhouettes and exploring fabrics is part of the fun, so don’t be afraid to expand your horizons. Challenge yourself to try on a wild card or two – who knows, you may just fall in love with something delightfully unexpected.
9. Focus On Feels
Even if you don’t have a specific look in mind, knowing the feeling you want your gown to elicit is helpful in finding your dream dress. Do you want to be light on your feet dancing the night away? Do you want to be the Disney princess you’ve dreamed about since you were three years old? Focus on that feeling and use it to find the gown that gives you all those warm, fuzzy feels.
10. Trust Your Instincts
Above all else, go with your gut. It’s always right. At the end of the day, if a gown gives you butterflies then it’s the one. Even if that means you’re rocking a ball gown on the beach – it’s your day, future Mrs.!
Looking for more scoop on how to make your Big Day dreams a reality? We’ve rounded up 7 Tips To Budget For Your Beautiful Big Day.
For More Charleston Wedding Inspiration Follow Along
FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | PINTEREST | TWITTER | GUIDE
