Shopping for Your Wedding Dress: Dos and Don’ts to Find “The One”
Shopping for your wedding dress is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that every bride dreams about. The process can be overwhelming for some if you’re not prepared. To help make this journey enjoyable and stress-free, here are some essential dos and don’ts from the stylists at Sandra D’s Bridal Boutique to keep in mind while searching for “the one.”
DO Start Early
Wedding dresses often take several months to order and require time for fittings and alterations. Start shopping at least 9-12 months before your wedding date to ensure you have ample time to find your dream dress and make necessary alterations. For those short engagements, do not fear! We are here to help! Gowns can be purchased off-the-rack and there are times when designers may have dresses in stock for quick turnaround.
DO Research while Keeping an Open Mind
Come prepared to your appointment by having a vision of your wedding look or create a Pinterest board of your favorite wedding dress photos to show your stylist. This will help narrow down your options and make the appointment more productive. On the other hand, while it’s great to have a vision, be open to trying on styles you may not have initially considered. Sometimes, the dress you least expect can turn out to be the one that makes you feel like a bride!
DON’T Forget Your Budget
Establish a budget before shopping so you can discuss your price range with your stylist to avoid falling in love with a dress that’s out of reach. Remember to account for alterations, accessories, and undergarments in your overall budget.
DO Invite a Trusted Friend or Family Member to Come With
Bringing along someone who knows your style and tastes can be helpful, but be sure to limit the number of people to avoid too many opinions. Too many voices can make decision-making more difficult. Bring people along who are going to support you and your vision for your wedding. If you prefer to shop by yourself, that works too! No matter who you bring, the stylists at Sandra D’s Bridal Boutique will support you throughout the entire process.
DON’T Try On Too Many Dresses
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by options if you try on too many gowns. Limit yourself to 5-10 dresses per shopping trip. Trust your instincts and focus on styles that align with your vision and make you feel beautiful.
DO Wear the Right Undergarments
Wearing nude, seamless undergarments can help you visualize how a dress will look on your wedding day. Bring a strapless bra and shape wear if you plan to use them, as they can affect the fit and appearance of the gown.
DON’T Forget About Comfort
While aesthetics of a dress are important, you’ll want to ensure your dress is comfortable for walking, sitting, and dancing. Consider factors like fabric weight, mobility, and whether you can wear the dress for an extended period of time.
DO Plan Ahead for Alterations
Almost every wedding dress will need some level of tailoring to achieve the perfect fit. Schedule your fittings well in advance and bring your wedding shoes and accessories to ensure a cohesive look. At Sandra D’s Bridal Boutique, we offer in-house alterations. We begin the alteration process two months before the wedding.
DO Trust Your Gut
When you find the dress that makes you feel confident, radiant, and like a bride, trust your instincts. Don’t second-guess yourself or feel pressured to continue shopping if you’ve already found “the one.” At Sandra D’s Bridal Boutique, we’ve helped a multitude of brides who said yes to their dress at their first appointment!
Shopping for your wedding dress should be an exciting and memorable experience. By keeping these dos and don’ts in mind, you’ll be well on your way to finding the gown that’s perfect for your special day.
Sandra D's Bridal Boutique, established in 1989 and located in the heart of Watertown, Wisconsin, has been a trusted destination for brides and their families for over three decades. Specializing in a wide selection of bridal gowns, bridesmaid dresses, prom attire, and tuxedo rentals, Sandra D's offers a personalized shopping experience to ensure every customer finds the perfect fit for their special day. With a commitment to exceptional service and timeless style, Sandra D's Bridal Boutique continues to be a cornerstone of wedding and formalwear in the community.
