Wedding Dress Shopping | What You Need To Know
By Jada Parrish
Posted: 02/26/14
Category: Wedding Tips
For some reason, I wasn't a huge fan of wedding dress shopping. It just seemed so overwhelming to me. There were so many dresses to choose from, and I just didn't feel pretty in most of the dresses I tried on...until I put on THE dress. It took me a while to find my perfect dress, but eventually I found it and instantly fell in love with it.
I learned a lot of things from wedding dress shopping. If I would have known some of these things before hand, the whole process would have been so much easier. I hope this helps some of you with your search!
Try on Lots of Different Styles
I went into my wedding dress search thinking I wanted something flowy and bohemian looking. The dress I ended up choosing could not have been more opposite. After trying on lots and lots bohemian dresses, I realized that style really didn't look great on my body type. I broadened my search to include some different styles and that was when I found the PERFECT dress. I ended up choosing an all lace mermaid gown with cap sleeves that had a vintage look to it. Totally different from what I thought I wanted!
Avoid Saturdays
Most people don't have to work on Saturdays, which means EVERYONE goes wedding dress shopping on Saturdays. You have to schedule appointments at every store you go to. It is a zoo. There are so many brides searching for the perfect dress that lace and tulle are flying everywhere. If you are able to, make an appointment to go try on dresses during the work week. It will be signifcantly less crowded. You will be able to take your time, and they will focus all of their attention on you.
Look Your Best
This is something I messed up on. I went wedding dress shopping for the first time on a day when I was feeling frumpy...so of course I didn't feel pretty in any of the dresses. If you know what type of wedding hairstyle you want, get your trial run done before you go wedding dress shopping. The same goes for makeup. It will help you put the whole picture together.
Bring Your Undergarmets
Make sure you bring a strapless bra with you and anything else you might be considering wearing under your dress. If you have an idea of what shoes you might wear, bring those too! The height of your shoes plays a large role when it comes to making alterations.
Take Honest People
Make sure you bring friends or family members who will be completely honest with you. You want to look your absolute best on your wedding day and finding the perfect dress is crucial. If a certain style or color tone doesn't flatter you, they need to tell you!
When You Find it, You Will Know
I promise that when you find your perfect dress you will know. You won't want to try on other dresses. You will feel beautiful, you will look beautiful, and you'll be ready to "Say Yes to the Dress!".
Richmond has some really great options for wedding dress shopping. I found my dress at Bridal Elegance in Shortpump. Bellarosa Bridal, Tiffany's, Jingles, David's Bridal, and Alfred Angelo are some other great options. Best of luck on your wedding dress search!
