How to Make Wedding Dress Shopping Memorable Instead of Stressful

Though wedding planning, in general, is stressful, wedding dress shopping is one of the most stressful tasks a bride faces, even when it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Filled with emotion and fun, it can be overwhelming to find ‘the one dress’ that’s perfect for you.

Many brides often choose to ultimately order bridal ensembles and wedding dresses online to cut down on the tiring work. But that doesn’t mean they won’t have to physically try on dresses beforehand. So regardless of which avenue you think you may choose, make time to spend at least one day dress shopping. At the very least, it can be a memorable day with your bridesmaids.

Ask Your Maid of Honor to Plan It

One of the easiest ways to make your wedding dress shopping a smooth experience is having your maid of honor plan it. Ask if she is up for it and if she says ‘yes,’ well, that stress is entirely lifted off your plate.

Call Ahead

Most bridal boutiques require appointments to be made in advance. So, make sure to call ahead to the stores you want to visit and set up an appointment so the stylist can give you her complete attention and help you find the dress of your dreams.

Aim to start shopping at least eight to 10 months before your wedding date. This will give you enough time for a few alteration appointments. Also, be sure not to overbook the day. Trying on wedding gowns is both emotionally and physically exhausting. So, only schedule two or so appointments in one day.

Glam It Up

Get ready for your bridal dress appointment like you would for a date night. Looking glam will help you feel confident while trying on gowns. It will also give you a better idea of what you’ll look like on your wedding day. So, take your time in the shower, style your hair, wear some makeup, and head out to the boutique.

When it comes to undergarments, wear nude-colored underwear without embellishments or seam and a well-fitting nude strapless bra. Don’t have a strapless bra? Don’t worry; most boutiques keep some to wear when trying on dresses.

Make a Day of It

If you have visitors come in to help you shop, make sure to make a day out of it. You can even have your bridesmaids go as it will give them a chance to get to know each other if they have never met before. Plan to do things like grabbing coffee or lunch, hitting up some shops, or anything else you love (well, don’t forget to ask your guest’s opinions too!).

Keep Your Group Smaller

More guests mean more drama. Each person you bring to your appointment will put forward various ideas about how your wedding dress should look. So, instead of having a large bridal party joining you for your appointment, just bring your maid of honor/matron of honor or anyone else whose opinions you trust for the initial shopping. Later on, you can bring your entire bridal party to your first fitting.

A smaller group means fewer opinions clouding your judgment. While feedback is important, you are the bride—the star of your wedding dress appointment. Ultimately, it’s your decision. So think about your vision, individuality, and style without pressure from others. After all, you want something you love. 

Celebrate!

Once you have found your dream dress, it’s time to celebrate! It’s a big deal to find the wedding dress of your dreams, and it’s one more thing checked off your wedding planning list. End your day of dress shopping with a celebratory lunch or dinner, champagne, flowers, noisemakers, etc.

Go Inspired!

Regardless of how tiring you may find wedding dress shopping to be, go prepared with inspiration and must-have details. Make sure you and your consultant are on the same page about what you want in a dress. 

Be mindful of what time of the year you are getting married, keep the weather in mind, and think if you want a formal or a casual wedding. Also, consider your personal style, but remember to have an open mind. You never know which dress you will come to love!