Shopping for your wedding gown should be joyous, fun, and fills you with excitement for the next momentous chapter in your life. Unfortunately, this happy occasion can have you leaving the bridal gown store with low self-esteem, broken relationships, and worst of all—no gown! To prevent these disastrous outcomes when buying your gown, follow these tips that will help you shop with a clear mind in a positive atmosphere.
Keep your entourage small
It would be wonderful to share your wedding plans with all of your friends and closest family members. But proceed with caution when choosing your entourage to go dress shopping with. Make a list of who you want to bring with you and evaluate their personalities because sometimes we have people in our immediate circle who we love for being outspoken and honest. Think twice about bringing loved ones who like to talk about themselves, seem to downgrade your ideas, or just seem unsupportive of your wedding. Sticking with about two or four loved ones that can be your parent, sibling, and a combination of a relative and friend.
Your opinion is the only opinion
Again, you choose your entourage because you want their opinion. But according to bridalguide.com, their input “can bring you farther away from what you actually want.” Remember, too many chefs in the kitchen can spoil a meal. So do not forget that your wedding is your moment, and you will be the center of attention, therefore make sure you are happy with your choice. It would be great to have everyone on board with your choice but it is difficult to have a group of people agree on one thing. Keep your head up and stay strong, and do not be afraid to speak up for your choice.
Stick to your budget
Make sure you factor extra expenses such as alterations, taxes, and delivery fees into your overall budget before you go dress shopping. When you get to your store of choice make sure “that the salon you choose respects your budget,” as recommended by bridalguide.com. Before visiting a store, call ahead and tell them you overall budget and see if they are willing to work with you. Once you have all your financial answers, you will be more comfortable going dress shopping.
Do not try on the entire store
Bridalguide.com suggests that you “shouldn’t try on more than 10, because it can lead to confusion.” In order to avoid being a confused or indecisive bride, narrow your selections down before you try dresses on. You do not want to seem like you are “just not ready to end the shopping experience and make a real commitment.” The point of dress shopping is to find your gown. Do not spend so much time at a salon and end up frustrated and without a gown.
Be open to different silhouettes
The best way to find your gown is to try on different styles to find a silhouette that is the most flattering to your body. Because it is “impossible to tell what a dress will look like on your body just from seeing it on a hanger,” do not limit yourself to a style that you think you want. Remember your consultant is there for a reason and that is to share their expertise on gowns to help you find the perfect one. So listen to what they have to say and be open to different silhouettes and you will not have to worry about missing out on the right dress.
