Don’t Stress the Dress

You’ve been asked the

question, answered “yes,” and are now on the prowl for the perfect dress. Shopping for a dress should be fun, but unfortunately it can seem a little overwhelming. Here are some tips for stress-free dress shopping.

Store Rules

There are likely going to be guidelines for your store. Make sure you know what those are by asking the questions when you make the appointment. Also, double check how long you have for your appointment and be sure to adhere to that schedule. The consultant will appreciate your respect for her time and the next bride is less likely to run you down.

Your Entourage

Let’s be clear: you do not need to have an audience while dress shopping. But if you do choose to invite a few people to tag along, make sure you’ve got the right ones. While guilt is an actual reason many brides choose who they do, know that there are no rules for who has to be there. Choose people who will offer valuable opinions, not make you cry (unless they are happy tears) and who are genuinely interested in being there for you. Whether you plan to take your bestie or the whole fam, make sure you’ve clearly communicated that with the store so they can be prepared for your group.

Budget Busters

Make a budget and stick to it. If you start out in the $800 range and then find yourself buried in the $2,500 dresses, back up slowly and find the nearest consultant. Nothing hurts worse than trying on that dream gown, falling in love, and learning it’s definitely out of your budget. Be honest with your consultant and explain your budget is firm. Be open-minded in your dress search. Now more than ever, there are tons of beautiful accessories and alteration options, which can help take a simple dress from ordinary to extraordinary.

Use Your Voice

You have a voice. Use it. This is the gown you will wear on the day you marry the love of your life. It’s the single most viewed dress you will ever wear and likely the most expensive. If you don’t like something about it, speak up. If you do like something, let the consultant know too. Communicate how the dress makes you feel and remember your opinion is really the only opinion that matters.

Finally, use that voice to choose your dream dress; the one that will make you feel your best on your wedding day.