SEARCH CELEBRATE

Plan your event

More N49 sites

The Celebrate.ca Network

Searching for the Perfect Gown

One of your most important wedding decisions is your wedding dress. Wait a minute- your wedding dress IS your most important wedding decision. There is a good chance you had a dress in mind long before you had a fiancé in mind. Finding a dress is hard work. There are a million styles to choose from, alterations to consider, and of course finding your dream dress within your real life budget. Here are a few tips and tricks to help make the process easier.

Shop early and shop smart.
Most brides should begin looking for their dress six to eight months before their wedding day. There is a good chance that you will have to get your dress special ordered and of course, you will need some alterations. If you are having a dress custom designed for your wedding it is wise to give yourself even more time.

When you begin your shopping leave your credit card at home. This is a big decision and not one that you want to make lightly. Just because you fell in love with a dress does not mean that you should buy it that day. You may think differently after trying on a few more styles, or you may be able to get your dress at another store or online for significantly less money.

Buy the dress that suits you, not the model in a magazine.
Make an appointment at a bridal shop and bring along your mother, maid of honor, or other trusted friend. Bring with you undergarments and shoes similar to those you may wear to the wedding. Wear makeup and put your hair in a style that you might wear at the wedding to get the best idea of how the dress will look on your wedding day. Let the consultant know what you are looking for, take your measurements, and make suggestions. Try on everything that you can in a wide range of styles. Often you will try on a style that you had not previously thought of and find that it is perfect for you. If necessary, take Polaroids so that you may review some of your favorite dresses at home.

Dress for your wedding.
If you are having a church wedding check if there are requirements about the bride’s gown. Some churches prohibit gowns that are too low cut in the front; others will require women to cover their shoulders. If your wedding is extremely formal you will want your dress to reflect that, likewise if you are having a small, casual wedding you don’t want to buy an overly ornate ball gown. Of course, the most important thing is that you feel at your very best in your wedding gown.

Choosing a wedding gown may seem like a daunting task but relax and enjoy it. Your perfect gown is out there and with a bit of searching you will find it. Remember: shop around, try on everything, and trust your instincts. Buy a dress that makes you feel beautiful!