Before You Say ‘Yes’ to the Dress: Essential Tips You Need to Know
Your wedding dress is one of the most important garments you’ll ever wear, and finding the perfect one can be a thrilling yet challenging journey. Before you embark on your “Say Yes to the Dress” moment, here’s a list of essential tips to ensure you make the right choice for your big day:
1. Set a Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on your wedding dress before you start shopping. This will help you narrow down your options and prevent you from falling in love with a gown that’s way over your budget. Most gowns at Archive Bridal range between $2500 – 3500. 4PAY Payment options are available and only a 50% deposit is require to place your gown order.
2. Start Early: Wedding dress shopping should begin at least 6-9 months before your wedding date. Some dresses require alterations, and you’ll want to leave enough time for fittings and adjustments.
3. Do Your Research: Browse bridal magazines, websites, and social media platforms to get an idea of the styles you like. Create a mood board or Pinterest board to gather inspiration and prepare to show at least 3-5 photos with your bridal consultant to help her get a sense of your style.
4. Make sure you have decided on your Venue: Your wedding location and season will influence your dress choice. Especially in San Diego where year round weddings and various locations are available. A ball gown may be perfect for a grand cathedral wedding, but a lightweight sheath dress could be ideal for a beach ceremony.
5. Be Mindful of your wellness journey: Will you be the same size when it’s time for your wedding day? Make sure you consult with your stylists about your body wellness journey so together you can order the most appropriate size and be prepared when it comes to alteration time.
6. Try Various Styles and TRUST your stylist: Be open to trying on different dress styles, even if you have a particular vision in mind. You may be surprised by what looks best on you.
7. Bring Supportive Companions: Bring a few trusted friends or family members to your appointments. They can offer valuable feedback and emotional support, but avoid bringing a large entourage as too many opinions can be overwhelming.
8. Wear Suitable Undergarments: Wear nude or white undergarments that are similar to what you’ll wear on your wedding day. This will give you a more accurate representation of how the dress will look. Be prepared to undress as your stylists will need to help you get dressed in the fitting room as most gowns require assistance.
9. Comfort Is Key: Ensure you can move, sit, and dance comfortably in your dress. Consider factors like weight, fabric, and ease of mobility.
10. Ask About Alterations: Many dresses can be customized to fit your preferences and body shape but beyond that most wedding gowns after the ordering process will require some type of alterations to make it just fit right.
11. Trust Your Instincts: When you find the dress that makes your heart skip a beat, trust your instincts. Don’t let others’ opinions sway your decision if you truly feel it’s the one. Sometimes it’s all about “the feelies”
12. Capture the Moment: Take photos and videos in the dress you love from different angles. It will help you visualize how you’ll look on your wedding day.
13. Sleep On It: If you’re unsure about a dress, sleep on it before making a final decision. This will ensure you’re confident in your choice.
Remember, your wedding dress is a reflection of your unique style and personality. Keep these tips in mind as you embark on your dress-shopping journey, and you’ll be well-prepared to find the gown that makes you feel like a bride-to-be beyond your wildest dreams.