Who knows more about buying a wedding dress than bridal salon owners? So what better way to get advice than to listen to an expert? Here are some valuable wedding dress shopping tips from the bridal salon owners themselves, to will help you avoid the main mistakes and make your shopping experience enjoyable.
What you need to take with you: Take the kind of underwear you’ll be wearing on the big day. Don’t wear anything that will show through your dress. Wear or take a comfortable strapless bra if you indent to try on strapless gowns. Think about what type of shoes you will be wearing on your wedding day. If you plan to wear heels, make sure you take some with you to the bridal store. It really helps if you wear your hair in the same or a similar style as you intend to for the wedding. This will give you a much better perception of exactly how the neckline will look.
What to expect from your first shopping trip: Typically a bridal salon appointment lasts for one and a half hours. Most bridal store owners recommend you book no more than two or three per day, otherwise, you’ll find it exhausting. Prior to your appointment, look at bridal magazines and online stores to get an idea of the style and shape of dress you prefer. Also think about the color, sleeves, and neckline. What is the overall feel you’re aiming for – classic, contemporary, beach-style or vintage? If you want an easier way to shop for a bridal gown, check out PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com.
Who to take with you: One of the biggest mistakes brides-to-be make is taking the wrong people shopping with them. There is really no need to take more than two or three people with you. Invite your mother and maybe your sister or best friend. You don’t need to take all your bridesmaids with you. If you take the whole entourage you’ll end up with mixed messages and you’ll never decide on a dress. Keep it simple.
What to ask when you’re in the bridal salon: First of all, you need to find out if there are any hidden extras, such as alteration fees. You also need to know how long you have to pay for the dress. For example, some stores require you to pay in full at least six months in advance. Because most salons wish to secure a sale, they will usually need a deposit from you, and this can be up to 50 percent of the full price. They may also put pressure on you have a fitting there and then so alterations can be started straight away. It’s much better to come back six months prior to the wedding to be measured.
These are some things to think about when you go bridal gown shopping. Take your time and try not to feel too overwhelmed.
Phoebe Harrison is a wedding planner and thinks she has the best job ever! She shares her top tips and tricks with brides to be around the web with her articles.
