Buy dress from bridal shop or get it made by a local designer?

Hello guys,

Just wanted to get some advice on where to purchase my wedding gown. I recently met with a local designer and went over my design wish list. After trying on some of her dresses, I finally narrowed it down and had a clear idea of what my dream wedding dress would look like. Her shop does customized dresses and told me she had no problems making my dress. I went home pretty content, excited and would sleep on this decision before I made any deposit. That night, I was curious if a similar dress to what I had envisioned already existed... so I turned to Google and entered a few keywords and lo and behold, I found a very similar dress to what I had in mind! I quickly looked up if this particular dress was available in my area and yes it was! At 1am, I scheduled an appointment to this bridal salon and that same afternoon, I tried on the gown! The design of the gown I had in mind was so close to this gown and I freaking loved it!!!! I felt good about it and knew it was the one! My problem is now where to purchase it??? Both have pros and cons. So for me it’s so tough to make a decision. Anyone had any experience on this?

Designer Shop-I met her at a Bridal Expo and wanted to support local businesses, here are my pro and cons:
+ made to fit (no alteration needed)
+ 100% customized, one of a kind dress
+ production is between 6-5 months and is local
- a little pricey but still within budget ($1550)
- I’m still unsure of the lace she has on hand
- new shop in town (from her dress collection, I could tell her dresses were well made; but not enough review from previous clientele so unknown final product look)

Bridal Shop gown
+ I know exactly what I’m getting
+ slightly cheaper ($1350)
+ Bridal shop is well known in town and has lots of good reviews
- might need alterations (will end up costing the same as the customized gown)
- Production unknown; owner of bridal shop mentioned Hong Kong and their holiday; she estimated 7-8months (this issue was mentioned a lot in their lowest reviews; lots of delay in the delivery of the dress)
- Design is pretty close to what I have in mind and was happy with it, however, I’m still unsure of very minor details

i hope I gave enough info... let me know what you guys would do. And any tips if you guys have any experience on this. TIA!