Shopping for a wedding dress is an exciting time, but can also be stressful. Between all the styles, materials, stores, prices – how do you know which dress to choose? As a photographer we get to spend time at a lot of different styles of weddings, and we pick up a few tips along the day when it comes to weddings.
Before you get your heart set on a specific dress, here’s a few things to consider when shopping for your wedding dress.
Your Wedding Venue
Think about the venue you have – is the style elegant and glamours, or rustic and earthy? Is the venue indoors or outdoors? If it’s outside, will it be in the heat in the middle of summer, ocean side with sand in your toes, or will you be catching snowflakes in the mountains? All of these questions matter. If you’re looking for a hot summer day, it would be best to try and find a dress that is light weight. Some dresses can feel so heavy and hot, you’ll feel like you’re trapped in a furnace – sweat dripping down your face might not be the look you’re going for.
Your Personality
How do you imagine celebrating your wedding? Truly think about how you are as a person. Are you going to be casually sitting with guests chatting throughout the night, or are you going to be busting some moves on the dance floor. If you’re wanting to dance, have a good time, and party into the early hours of the morning – you might want to rethink that super long train. Ultimately, pick something that’s a reflection of you – don’t think about trends – being yourself will always reflect so much better.
Set a Budget and Do Your Research
Plan out your budget before going shopping. Think of what’st most important for you on your day. Setting a budget and doing your research will help you avoid disappointment if you go in blind and find your dream dress but realize it’s out of budget.
Don’t Focus On Size
Whatever you do, don’t focus on the size! Sometimes dress sizes are a few sizes bigger than your normal clothing size. Don’t let the numbers get in your head. Trust us, you’re beautiful and will rock that dress!
Shop Early
In order to avoid disappointment, and a stressful situation, start shopping early. Some dresses can take a few months to order, then it can take another month or so for alterations if needed. It’s best to start looking early, just in case your dream dress might take a little while to come in.
Shop on a Weekday
Popular bridal salons can get crazy during the weekend, especially if you’re shopping during the busy season. If you can, try to book your appointment during the week. Chances are it’ll be much slower in the store, and you’ll have your own space and more attention from the bridal consultants.
Pick the Right People to Go With You
This comes back to knowing your personality. Do you like shopping? Are you ok with big groups? Great, bring your whole crew. Would you rather a more intimate setting? Maybe only select one or two people. Weddings can bring out a lot of opinions – while everyone means the best, sometimes it can get overwhelming. Make sure you have the right people with you that will allow you to be yourself in a pressure free environment.
