You may have started dreaming about what kind of wedding dress you'd like to wear down the aisle long before you were presented an engagement ring. And now that you've said, "Yes!" you may find yourself scouring the bridal websites looking for the perfect gown.
But hold up. Before you actually walk into a bridal salon or press the purchase button, keep a few things in mind.
Here are five things you should do before wedding dress shopping.
1. Create a Budget -
Your wedding dress budget doesn't just include the actual gown, but things like accessories (jewelry, sash, shawl, etc.), a veil or headpiece, shoes, and undergarments. If you fail to allot some of your budget to these items, they may add up (hidden costs) and create chaos for the rest of your budget down the wedding planning road.
Creating a budget for your gown and extra pieces will provide you with a guide so that you don't go overboard when you find a dress you think is "the one," but doesn't quite hit the acceptable numbers. You'll also be able to filter your searching so that you get a dress you love, as well as one that fits within your budget.
ieie Bridal has a variety of wedding dresses to fit every budget. You can filter your search from low to high or vice versa.
2. Pick Your Venue -
Before you wedding dress shop you should have a good idea of where your wedding will be held. Knowing the kind of venue you'll say your vows in will help you find a wedding gown style that fits the venue's standards and vibe.
A charming chapel might call for a more modest wedding dress, whereas a beach wedding might allow for something a little more sexy.
3. Do Some Research -
While wedding dress shopping, you might come across a plethora of terms within categories like silhouettes (a-line, mermaid, ball gown), necklines (sweetheart, v-neck, illusion), and fabric (taffeta, tulle, chiffon). Brush up on your vocabulary before you head to the bridal salon or read gown descriptions so you know exactly what everything means.
4. Shop for Your Body -
Don't worry about your weight. Even if you plan on losing a few pounds, choose a wedding dress that flatters your body as it looks now. Chances are, your body won't change that much between now and the wedding. So ask yourself which silhouettes and necklines not only look good on you as you are now, but feel good on you.
5. Shop Early -
Most wedding dress experts recommend shopping at least 8 to 10 months in advance. Shopping as early as possible will ensure that you get the dress you want on time. Plus, the more time you have to make possible changes and alterations, the better. No one wants to stress over their dress a few days before the wedding.
