Saying yes for a second time?

Don't let any one (even your opinionated bridesmaid) talk you out of a dress just because they don't like it. If you find a dress that you absolutely love, listen to your gut. That happened to me. I put on a dress, fell in love with it, and then my FMIL and my mom told me they thought it was too plain. I picked and bought a different dress. I ended up going back 3 months later and exchanging the dress I bought, and ordering the dress that I loved.

Hey Maddie! So, first off, I would definitely start looking around online for examples of what you like. Bringing those pictures in will help your consultant start off in the right direction! But you should also be open to trying on different silhouettes and styles, because you never know what you will love once you put it on! For example, I knew I wanted mermaid, but I also wanted tons of lace. However, I did end up with a mermaid but it was satin with a tulle/horsehair train! No lace at all! So, be open minded for sure! I also would say not to set your expectations too high, you may not find "the one" on this trip, and that's okay! Try to go in with the mindset that it will be fun and exciting and then if you find "the one" it'll be even better, but if not there are tons more places to go! You are bringing a pretty big crowd, so be mindful that the opinions you get are just that - someone else's opinion. All that truly matters is that YOU love it and feel beautiful and comfortable in it. If it ends up being too frustrating, tell everyone you are going to think on it and then go back with just one or two people. That tends to be easier. Finding your dress can be so much fun - enjoy it!

Stand your ground and remember that it's your dress - not anyone else's! What's most important is finding a dress you love!

DRESS SHOPPING:

Here goes, long but:

1) HAVE FUN!!! And go to a few places!

2) Try on ALL the styles to see what actually does look good on you. And try on white as well as ivory/cream.

3) Bring the underwear, bra, shape-wear, pantyhose, heels and jewelry options for a high and low neckline you will most likely wear.

4) Bring snacks: gum, mints, candy, crackers. As well as water, juice or clear soda. As well as bring any meds you take, even if you don’t think you’ll need them. Aspirin and ibuprofen can be a life saver for you, And your girls/guys!

5) Bring only the top 3 people. Too many can make it not a fun experience. Remind them they don’t have to be catty/petty, but can give advice & comments.

6) Go in with Pinterest, magazine or printed out dresses that you like.

7) What does your closet have more of? Slinky and sexy or full and romantic styles of dresses/gowns? That can always be a good indicator of what you are likely to lean towards.

8) Remember, and why they do this I have NOOOO idea, the dress they put you in is going to be one to three sizes BIGGER than what you normally wear. And the sample is not going to fit the same, as it’s been handled and tried on, many, times before.

9) Tell the stylist what the wedding vision is: Church, barn, beach. Winter, summer, indoor or outdoor. Small or large wedding.... That way they can help guide you and your people...

10) Wear the spray on or clear deodorant and limit perfume/lotion. As well as being the deodorant and feminine pads with you. Light days can double as armpit sweat stoppers.

11) Wear limited makeup- no lipstick!- so as you don’t get it on the gowns. If you MUST be full faced bring a clear shower cap to hold over your face when they are putting the gowns over you head( I model and that is a trick we use!).. Trust me the stylist will love ya for it!

1. Also, remember that the size you wear is going to differ from what they put you in. Meaning if you wear a size 8 they will put you in a 10-12. It can be disheartening to see that larger number, but remember that you are NOT the number, you are the beautiful soul inside that gorgeous gown!

Definitely enjoy the process for what is! Try on a lot of different styles and go to a few salons. Even if you love the first dress you try on. You want to be 1,000% sure. Listen to constructive criticism but also know yourself and your style. Trust your gut and go by how you feel in a dress. Only you will know which dress makes you feel beautiful. Definitely wear nude or white undergarments, no black! Strapless bra is important. Be open minded and trust your consultant. Have fun!


Questions to ask: how much money do you have to pay upfront and what kind of payment plans do they have?What's a ballpark figure for the cost of alterations? How long will it take a dress to come in? How long does alterations take? What if you lose/gain a significant amount of weight? Can they exchange the dress or will you have to have a lot of alterations? What if you change your mind? Will they give you a store credit towards another gown or a refund?
Good luck!

View Quoted Comment Thank you for the advice!

View Quoted Comment I definitely have a type of dress that I want to try on and I would love to “find the dress” at that appointment but I love your advice about keeping an open mind and trying on different styles! If I don’t find the dress that day I still have 10 months so I need not to worry!


You’re advice has been quite helpful! Thank you!

View Quoted Comment Idk why I feel like I need other people to approve of my dress. But you’re right, it’s MY dress and if I love it then it’s right for me 💕


Thank you for making me feel like my decision is important.

View Quoted Comment So much I didn’t even think of! Thank you for tips and tricks as well as advice! I definitely feel less nervous since I now have a good idea what could or will happen. ❤️

View Quoted Comment I didn’t even think about having a list of questions! Thank you so much for your advice!

View Quoted Comment Welcome! I have been a model for David’s Bridal and have gone with friends shopping- and the food/drink/meds are always one that they are happy I have! Lol