How do I choose the perfect wedding dress?
Introduction
Choosing your wedding dress is one of the most exciting parts of planning. With endless styles and options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Here’s how to make the process stress-free.
Steps to Find Your Dream Dress
Set Your Budget: Start with a clear spending limit.
Research Styles: Look at magazines and websites for inspiration.
Book Appointments: Visit bridal boutiques to try different options.
PROTIP - Always raise your arms up and stretch out when trying on a dress. Whether it’s throwing the bouquet or dancing, there will inevitably be a point in the day when you raise your arms, and this is so important to do when trying on a dress!
STORYTIME - (this is a true story) A Bride had done a first look, organised her Bridesmaids into order, the doors were about to open to the Isle, when the music started. She got so excited that she threw both her arms out and did a little squeal. (This is a great way to losen any ‘this is happening’ nerves) but she hadn’t tested this movement in the dress, so it tore right down the back and PINGED off her. She was standing next to her father. All her bridesmaids were so shocked that no one really moved, and she nearly cried. The Wedding Host was there and immediately stepped in. He asked the Bride not to move, Bridesmaid 1 to stand infront of her to make sure she was ok and to shield her incase the door opened, told an Usher to run around to the side of the room so they wouldn’t open the doors until they were ready, then stand on the other side of the door until he heard the knock to signal that she was ready. He asked Bridesmaid 2 and 3 to hold the back of the dress together, Bridesmaid 4 to bunch up the train and hold it to the side, and the father to calm down. He then stood behind her and sewed her back up until she was comfortable and could move in it. It was a temporary fix, but it did the job, and she was able to make it through the whole ceremony without another hitch.
Consider the Venue: Match your dress style to your wedding setting, but don’t let this dissuade you from having exactly what you want.
Bring Supportive People: Limit your entourage to avoid conflicting opinions. This entourage doesn’t have to be just females, men can have a very good eye for what looks right which, unfortunately, is often overlooked.
Tips for a Stress-Free Experience
Shop 9–12 months in advance for plenty of time.
Be open to trying unexpected styles. Ask each of your entourage to pick a dress for you to try. This can be a lot of fun, and you may end up loving something you would otherwise have never of picked.
Factor in time and cost for alterations.
Final Thoughts
Your dress should make you feel confident and beautiful. Trust your instincts and enjoy the process of finding “the one.”
