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Gretchen's Bridal Gallery

Midwest's largest boutique for bridal & bridesmaids dresses with a selection of prom, tux, and special occasion wear!

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  • Gowns
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Wedding Planning

The Truth About Bridal Sizing

June 27, 2022 By //  by Gretchen Reynolds

Your engagement ring is shining on your left hand as you stand in your undergarments in the fitting room of your first bridal appointment. Your stylist brings an array of beautiful options into your room. One of the dresses catches your eye, could this be one? You start to feel excited to try on your first dress. Suddenly, all of that excitement comes to a halt when you see the number on the tag. It is at least two sizes higher than your normal dress size.

As your stylist zips, clips, and pannels you into your first dress you start to feel a mix of emotions clouded by a number. You are not alone, almost every bride has had those exact thoughts. Even with the cautionary tales and warnings, your dress size can still come as a shock. Let’s demystify bridal sizing!

There are two main reasons for needing a larger wedding dress.

Reason #1

No, wedding dress designers aren’t purposefully making the dress smaller so you feel bad. Historically many wedding dress designers have been based out of Europe. It has become a common practice in the wedding dress industry. Even today many US-based designers tend to take on these sizing practices. European size charts tend to run smaller than American size charts.

Reason #2

Most wedding dresses are special orders, not custom-made. You will try on a sample of a special order gown. Wedding dress designers don’t keep a lot of stock, instead, they make the gowns as the orders come in. Those orders are given based on their design size chart.

Each designer has a unique size chart used for their dresses. Wedding dresses are typically made with only 1-2 inches of the seam allowance because of that it is standard practice to order to the highest size a bride measures to.

For example:

You could be a size 12 in your chest. Size 14 in your waist. Size 10 in your hips.

We would order you a size 14 wedding dress because it is much easier to take a dress in than to take it out.

Those two reasons make it common for brides to order a dress a few sizes larger than what they are used to wearing. Just remember that the number on your dress tag does not define you. If you don’t want to see it, simply cut the tag out. Your dress will be custom fit to you during alterations anyways.

Are you ready to find your dream dress? Gretchen’s Bridal Gallery has the biggest designer wedding dress selection in Indianapolis. Book your bridal appointment today at Gretchen’s Bridal Gallery.

Filed Under: Bridal, Wedding Dresses, Wedding Planning Tagged With: bridal gowns, bridal sizing, indiana bride, indianapolis wedding, weddin plannng, wedding dress

4 Mistakes To Avoid When Shopping For Your Wedding Dress

January 3, 2022 By //  by Gretchen Reynolds

Shopping for your wedding dress is an exciting time! We are going through the 4 biggest mistakes to avoid when shopping for your wedding dress.

Not having a clear budget.

Searching for your perfect wedding dress can be magical… but that magic can easily fade away if you fall in love with a dress out of your price point. Before you start searching for your perfect dress set a price point and stick with it. You can always allow yourself a little bit of wiggle room but set a firm stopping point. Bridal stores usually say what their gown price ranges are. Book appointments at bridal stores that line up with your price point. Gretchen’s Bridal Gallery has special order wedding dresses for $1,200-$3,500. Gretchen’s Takes has off-the-rack wedding dresses for $800-$1,200.

Not having an open mind.

We always recommend bringing some type of inspiration to your bridal appointment. Ultimately that inspiration is a starting point. We see bride’s all the time who are set on a fitted gown when they come in and walk out with a ballgown. It is ok to not like something that you thought you would. You try on gowns in person to see what you truly love. It is super common for stylists to throw in wild card dresses to see what you like.

Letting someone in your group control the appointment.

When you go into your bridal appointment you are assigned a stylist that will help guide you through your appointment. Even with a stylist YOU are ultimately in control. We want to support you and your decisions. Think of your stylist as your cheerleader. We will champion your feelings! Your opinions and our knowledge combined will make a great team! If someone in your entourage is challenging you and your opinions or making you feel less then your best, you might have to reevaluate their participation.

Being too hard on yourself.

Everyone wants to look and feel their best on their wedding day! It’s completely natural to be critical of yourself and how you look while wedding dress shopping. Ultimately you are trying on a sample dress that isn’t custom fit for you and just might not be your size. Remind yourself that it is about how you feel! You need to FEEL beautiful, confident, and like a bride in your dress. Just remember, regardless of what dress you choose your fiance and attendees of your wedding will think you are beautiful. If they don’t… maybe reconsider those people in your life (they might be haters).

Now that you learned the 4 biggest mistakes when shopping for your wedding dress, you are ready to book your bridal appointment. Gretchen’s Bridal Gallery Indianapolis has over 600 special order dress and Gretchen’s Takes has a wonderful selection of take-it-today gowns. We can’t wait to help you find your perfect dress!

Filed Under: Bridal, Wedding Planning

Bridal Terms You Should Know: Silhouettes

November 15, 2021 By //  by Gretchen Reynolds Leave a Comment

When you walk into your first bridal appointment it can feel like people are speaking a different language. Not knowing bridal terms can make things feel more intimidating. It can also make it harder for you to describe what you want. We are here to help! Today we are breaking down the bridal terms for the six basic silhouettes. 

Let’s start with the word silhouette…

A silhouette is simply the shape of the gown. 

A Line

Any dress that gets wider from the waist to the hem. The smallest point sits at or above your waist then flares out all the way to the hem (the bottom of the skirt). 

Justin Alexander a line gown with silk makado fabric thick straps and deep plunging neckline
Justin Alexander

Ballgown

A-line dress with even more volume. Ball Gowns have a wide and full skirt that is usually filled with layers of tulle or crinolines. 

Morilee Ball Gown with off the shoulder straps, sparkle skirt blush color, and sparkle vine appliques
Morilee

Mermaid

A fitted dress that dramatically flares out at or just above the knees. The dramatic flair is caused by layers of tulle or crinoline. A mermaid gown gives the illusion of an hourglass silhouette. 

morilee mermaid gown with tiered skirt and lace with open back lace detail deep plunge and encrusted straps gretchen's bridal gallery indianapolis
Morilee Signature

Trumpet

A fitted dress that is less fitted around the hips and flares out at the middle thigh. It typically doesn’t have tulle or crinoline under the skirt. Trumpet style gowns are still dramatic but also have a sleek look.

Trumpet style gown with cap sleeve and lace with plunging neckline and blush underlayer gretchens bridal gallery indianapolis
Allure Bridals

Fit-and-Flare

If an A-line dress has too much volume and the trumpet is too fitted, the fit-and-flare will be perfect for you. Fit-and-Flare dresses are fitted through the top and waist but are not fitted waist down. 

Maggie Sottero fit-and-flare gown crepe fabric with plunging neckline and laces on top and train gretchens bridal gallery indianapolis
Maggie Sottero

Sheath

Sheath wedding gowns are fitted in the waist and fall straight down. This silhouette doesn’t have any volume and is sleek and effortless. 

Maggie Soterro Sheath gown strapless staight across gown gretchen'd bridal gallery indy
Maggie Sottero

Knowing what silhouette you are the most interested in is a great starting point during your bridal appointment. Your stylist will help you find your perfect silhouette. At Gretchen’s Bridal Gallery Indianapolis we have over 800 special order gowns for you to choose from. Finding your perfect dress is easy when you book your appointment at Gretchen’s Bridal Gallery Indianapolis. Book your appointment today!

Follow Gretchen’s Bridal Gallery on Instagram and Facebook for more tips and bridal information.

Gretchen’s Bridal Gallery Instagram

Gretchen’s Bridal Gallery Facebook

Filed Under: Bridal, Wedding Dresses, Wedding Planning

Our Favorite Places To Get Wedding Inspiration

October 4, 2021 By //  by Gretchen Reynolds

Planning a wedding is no easy task, that’s why wedding planners are still in business. The hardest part of planning a wedding for some is getting the inspiration to start. There are so many ideas to consider. Do I want my wedding to be boho or classic? Do I want it to be during the winter or summer? Do I want it to be a micro-wedding or host the party of the year?  These are just a few questions you may be asking yourself. We have some amazing resources that can help you decide what your wedding vision is.

  1. Pinterest

Ah yes! Pinterest is the inspiration generator. It has photos of any theme you could think of from a French riviera-inspired affair to a full-out Star Wars-inspired event. Pinterest is a great place to get started when you are first dipping your toes into wedding planning. 

If you are conflicted with your theme or vibe, make multiple Pinterest boards with options. You can then use the dress to guide you in the final direction you want to go in. Check Gretchen’s Bridal Gallery on Pinterest for some great wedding inspiration. 

  1. Brides.com

Brides is one of the premier bridal publications. Their website features stories about real brides, gown inspiration, and even ideas for the bachelorette party. Brides is a wonderful place to go to look at other beautiful weddings and gain great advice. 

  1. Instagram

Instagram is a great tool to find bridal inspiration. Instagram is full of awesome wedding inspiration accounts. They show real brides and tips and tricks along the way.

Some of our favorite accounts are 

Gretchensbridalgallery

Carats & Cake

Green Wedding Shoes

The Knot

  1. Local Hashtags

Use hashtags to guide your search. Hashtags are a great way for you to find what you are looking for. Try searching your state or city paired with keywords like bride, wedding, bridal, or photographer. 

Some of our favorites are

#indywedding #indybride #indianabridalboutique

Don’t forget that your wedding is YOUR special day. Bring this inspiration to your appointment to find your perfect dress! Book your bridal appointment today to make your wedding dreams come to life.

Filed Under: Uncategorized, Wedding Planning

When To Start Shopping For Your Wedding Dress

August 4, 2021 By //  by Gretchen Reynolds Leave a Comment

Congratulations! You have a ring on your finger and are getting ready to walk down the aisle. There is just one catch… now you have to plan the wedding of your dreams. There are hundreds of wedding timelines online and every married person now wants to share their wedding planning experience.

If there is one thing that should be set in stone on your timeline it is that YOU should say yes to the dress 9-months in advance and here are some reasons why. 

Reason 1: More gown options!

There are hundreds of wedding gown options out there. A standard special order wedding gown takes around 6 months to get to you. Don’t forget that you need to add in a few extra months for alterations. When you shop 9 months in advance you allow yourself to have all of the beautiful wedding gown options available. When you wait too long to shop you begin to be restricted to off-the-rack gowns. There is certainly nothing wrong with off-the-rack gowns but your options are more limited. 

Reason 2: It will save you money!

Yes, shopping in advance can save you money! The longer you wait to find your dream wedding gown the more expensive things can be. Designers offer expedited shipping of gowns which is called a rush. That rush isn’t free though. A standard rush can range from $75 upwards to $300. Don’t forget… that is an additional fee to the current price of shipping. Additionally, many seamstresses charge extra for speedy alterations. During peak alterations season, you can be charged up to double to have quick alterations done. 

Reason 3: Shopping is more fun!

Wedding dress shopping can be stressful and sometimes a little overwhelming, add a time crunch to that and it can be less than enjoyable. When you shop 9-months in advance you are able to fully enjoy your shopping experience! It gives you time to relax and enjoy instead of feeling like a race against the clock.

For some brides, this article just gave you a sigh of relief and for others, we can feel your heartbeat picking up. Don’t stress though, at Gretchen’s Bridal Gallery we are here for YOU! No matter what your timeline. Well… what are you waiting for? Book your wedding dress shopping appointment today at Gretchen’s Bridal Gallery.

Filed Under: Wedding Planning

Tips for Choosing Bridal Hair Accessories

July 13, 2021 By //  by Gretchen Reynolds

Your bridal hair accessories have the power to transform your entire wedding day look. Whether you prefer a simple hairpin or dazzling tiara, choosing the perfect accessories involves a variety of important details. Here are a few of our best tips for brides searching for the perfect hair accessories.   

choose your bridal hair accessories

Choose your Hairstyle

Before you can begin choosing your bridal hair accessories for your wedding day, you’ll first need to know what hairstyle you’ll be wearing. This allows you to pick accessories that fit not only your hairstyle but your overall wedding day look. Your stylist can also try the hair pieces on you beforehand so you’ll know which works and which accessories may not be a good fit. 

Bridal Hair Accessories at Gretchen's Bridal
Photo Courtesy of Becky Lynn Photography

Consider Your Dress

Another important detail to consider before deciding on hair accessories is your wedding dress. This sets the tone for the rest of your bridal ensemble as it allows you to match your accessories to the dress itself. For example, if your dress has lace or embellished details, you may opt for a lace headband or jeweled hairpin. 

Floral bridal hair accessory

Know Your Options

There’s such a large selection of options when choosing bridal hair accessories. From classic combs and hairpins to statement headbands and flowers, every bride can find something she loves. The type of accessory will also depend heavily on your wedding hairstyle as many work best on specific styles. We recommend trying a few different options with your stylist to find which works best for you on your wedding day. 

silver wedding hair accessory

Change It Up

Having trouble deciding on a single hairstyle or accessory for your big day? Similar to your outfit changes, you can also switch up your accessories for each look. For example, you can wear a chic updo for your ceremony with a jeweled hair comb, then change to loose curls for your reception with a romantic tiara. 

Before you begin planning your bridal hairstyle for your special day, book an appointment to browse our full selection of wedding dresses in store! 

Filed Under: Wedding Planning

Summer Wedding Makeup Tips to Look Your Best

July 6, 2021 By //  by Gretchen Reynolds

With its warm weather, sunny days, and beautiful outdoor venues, summer is the ideal season for a gorgeous wedding. However, the heat can also quickly lead to a makeup meltdown for brides who are unprepared. Here are a few of our best summer wedding makeup tips to help you look and feel your best on your special day. 

Summer Wedding Makeup

Add a Pop of Color

Summer is the perfect season to include a pop of color in your wedding makeup. Add a touch of playfulness to your look with a bold lip in bright red or vibrant pink, or opt for a dramatic eyeshadow color instead. We recommend only choosing one statement piece in your makeup look to avoid too many contrasting colors. 

Keep it Matte

Avoid any additional oils on your skin for your wedding by opting for matte products instead. A matte foundation, powder and bronzer work great for keeping your skin light and dry all day long. Moisturizers can often make your skin appear oily as well so feel free to skip these and any extra lotions on your wedding day. 

summer wedding makeup tips
Photo Courtesy of Emily Wren Photography

Apply SPF

Protecting your skin is crucial at all times of year, but even more important during an outdoor wedding in the summer. Many foundations, creams and moisturizers have SPF included which make great options to include in your wedding day makeup routine. Sunscreen face mists are also an easy way to touch up your SPF as needed throughout your wedding. 

Use Waterproof Products

In addition to using waterproof mascara on the day of your wedding, we recommend using waterproof products for every step of your eye makeup. Not only with this help avoid streaks on a hot day, you can also shed a tear without having to worry about your makeup running in the moment. 

Have a Touch Up Kit

One of the most important details of your summer wedding makeup includes having a touch-up kit on hand for emergencies. Have a member of your bridal party or a family member keep the kit close by for any last minute touch ups. Some of our must-have items for your kit include blotting papers, face powder and lipstick for those moments you want to reapply.  

Still searching for the perfect wedding dress? Check out some of our favorite summer wedding gown styles and book an appointment with one of our bridal specialists today! 

Filed Under: Wedding Planning

Groom Tuxedo Ideas for Same-Sex Weddings

June 8, 2021 By //  by Gretchen Reynolds

There are nearly endless options to choose from when shopping for wedding day attire for two grooms. Whether you prefer to match or show off your individual styles, don’t be afraid to mix + match colors, prints, and even accessories. From the classic tux to bold blazers, here are just a few of our favorite groom tuxedo ideas for same-sex weddings.

Groom Tuxedo Ideas for Same-Sex Weddings

Bold Blazer

Let your personal style shine through on your wedding day with a bold blazer. Not only does it add a fun, unexpected pop of color to your attire, you can also coordinate with your partner. Look for a blazer in a bright color such as aqua or maroon, or even opt for a playful print or pattern. 

bold blazer tuxedo
Photo Courtesy of Steve Steinhardt Photography

Similar Color Combos

For grooms looking to coordinate their tuxedos for your special day, we recommend wearing the same suit color in different shades. This creates a cohesive look that isn’t too matching. Some of our favorite color combos are navy + light blue and lilac + pink. 

pastel wedding tuxedo
Photo Courtesy of Casey Brodley

A Classic Tux

If you want to keep your wedding day attire more clean and classic, you can’t go wrong with a traditional black and white tuxedo. They’re timeless yet modern, and look great on everyone. You also have the option to wear matching tuxedos, or mix it up with both black and white suit jackets. 

classic wedding tux
Photo Courtesy of Theo Milo Photography

Switch Up Accessories

One of the easiest ways to make same-sex weddings look unique to your own style is by switching up the accessories. Whether you’re wearing matching tuxedos or just want to add some individuality to your attire, change it up with different accessories. One groom can wear a tie while the other wears a bowtie, or opt for different colored pocket squares or boutonnières.

Still searching for the perfect tuxes for your wedding day? Book an appointment with our full service tuxedo shop located inside Gretchen’s Bridal! 

Filed Under: Wedding Planning

Belle of the Ball: Mother of the Bride Dresses at Gretchen’s Bridal

May 11, 2021 By //  by Gretchen Reynolds

the best mother of the bride dresses

The mother of the bride is included in so many important details on your wedding day. Once you’ve found your perfect bridal gown, it’s time to shop for mom and find her something truly special for your big day. Here are a few of our favorite mother-of-the-bride dresses we’re currently loving. 

embroidered bodice mother of the bride gown

This mother of the bride dress is elegant and romantic with ¾ sleeves. The embroidered bodice features a flattering floral pattern leading into a cinched skirt. The navy color also compliments a variety of different body types and skin tones.  

Morilee evening gown

Crafted with jersey fabric, this Morilee evening gown is perfect for any mother of the bride. The dress has beaded lace appliqués on the bodice, and short sleeves on a sheath silhouette. For a little added drama, there is also a subtle slit going just above the knee. 

mother of the bride dresses

This timeless design is one of our favorite options for mother of the bride dresses. It’s ¾ illusion sleeves lead to a scoop neckline and embellished bodice. The loosely draped skirt also offers a flattering silhouette in a gorgeous cream color. 

emerald Morilee formal gown

For mothers of the bride looking for a more dramatic style, this emerald Morilee gown has a stunning off the shoulder neckline with a beaded waist detail. The fit and flare silhouette is also stretchy, making it ideal for dancing the night away at the reception. 

Bring your entire bridal party to Gretchen’s so you can celebrate together while you shop! We can outfit everyone in your party, not just brides. Grooms, bridesmaids, flower girls, ring bearers, parents of the bride and groom: we can dress everyone in your group. Less time shopping means more time to plan your happily ever after. Stop by Gretchen’s to browse our full selection of mother-of-the-bride dresses, bridesmaid gowns and more. Or book an appointment with one of our bridal specialists today!

Filed Under: Wedding Planning

What to Expect at Your Wedding Dress Appointment

April 27, 2021 By //  by Gretchen Reynolds

Beginning the search for your wedding dress is one of the most exciting parts of the wedding planning process. From when to begin shopping to common mistakes we often see brides make, here are a few important details from our owner Gretchen to help prepare you for your wedding dress appointment.

what you need to know about wedding dress appointments

How early do you recommend brides begin dress shopping before their wedding?

Wedding dress shopping is exciting and a HUGE part of your wedding planning experience. I recommend shopping nine months to a year in advance. This timeline will give you access to all the dress options you could want. This timeline also makes the process less stressful and more relaxing.

What should brides bring with them to their dress appointment?

Brides should bring: 

  • Wedding dress inspiration (Pinterest board, designer pictures, etc.)
  • A select group of people who will make you feel supported and confident in making a decision. 
  • Water. Trying on dresses can get a little hot and a little sweaty. 
  • Undergarments that make you feel comfortable. We recommend something in a nude color but don’t even worry about a bra because most dresses have cups built-in!
she said yes to the dress at Gretchen's bridal

Is there anything a bride should do to prepare for her appointment?

The most important things to do before your appointment are:

  • Find inspiration for your gown. Your stylist uses the gown inspiration as a starting point.
  • Research the shops in your area to see who aligns with your style and price point.
  • Discuss and set a price point. We always want to respect your price point!

Do you recommend a weekday appointment versus a weekend date? Why?

I recommend a weekday appointment for people who want a more chill and quiet shopping experience. The weekdays are less busy, so they are ideal for people who want something calmer.

I recommend a weekend appointment for those people who thrive off of energy. We like to say that the weekend has a “party-like atmosphere”. The weekends are when we take most of our appointments, so they are energetic. 

Regardless of whether you want to visit us on the weekday or weekend, always make an appointment. When you book an appointment, we assign a stylist to help you through your shopping.

wedding dresses and wedding dress appointment

How many friends + family members should a bride bring to her appointment?

We recommend bringing only 3-5 guests. The people you invite to your wedding dress appointment should support you and what you want for your wedding.

What size range do your dresses come in?

At our Indy location, we carry special order gowns in the size range of 0-32 for all body types. Don’t forget alterations are what will make a dress perfect for you!

what to expect at your wedding dress appointment

What are some mistakes you often see brides make when shopping for a wedding dress?

Brides not being open to new styles. Brides come in with a vision of what they want, and sometimes when they have on that “dream dress,” it doesn’t match what they had in their mind. We see brides all the time coming in with one look in their mind, and then they fall in love with another. That is why you have a stylist who can help you through the process. 

Brides are bringing the wrong people. Bring the people who make you feel confident and loved to your bridal appointment. Your appointment is a time to celebrate you! Include the people you don’t want at your appointment in other ways, like bringing them to your first fitting and have a dress reveal. 

Brides are setting their expectations too high. Not every bride is going to cry when they find their dream dress. Not every dress will fit perfectly. Not every bride will fall in love with the first dress they try on. That is okay! Your shopping experience is special because it is YOURS. And just remember you only need to love one dress!

Read more of our best wedding dress shopping tips and schedule an appointment with us today. You’ll also receive $100 off your entire purchase when book and buy during the week!

Filed Under: Wedding Planning

The Best Place for Bridesmaid Dresses Isn’t Online

March 23, 2021 By //  by Gretchen Reynolds


While shopping online for bridesmaid dresses may seem like the easier option, it can often lead to poor fitting gowns and more money spent on alterations. Here are just a few reasons why the best place for bridesmaid dresses isn’t online.

best place for bridesmaid dresses

Better Quality

We’ve heard all the horror stories of brides purchasing their bridesmaid dresses online, only to have them arrive looking completely different than the photos. The quality of online dresses simply does not match store quality a majority of the time. The cost difference between online and in-store shopping is also small.

shopping at Gretchen's Bridal

Less Alterations

More alterations means more money. Save your bridesmaids both time and money by shopping in-store for gowns that will have a better fit versus online dresses with incorrect size charts. At Gretchen’s, you’ll be measured and sized in store by our bridal specialists, which also leads to a better gown fit.

bridesmaids gowns at Gretchen's Bridal

More Flattering 

Not only do online bridesmaid dresses often not fit correctly, they are also not usually the most flattering for all body types. When you shop in-store, you’re able to see the gowns in person as well as trying them on for yourself to ensure they’ll look great on everyone in your bridal party. Trust us, your bridesmaids will thank you! 

best place for bridesmaid dresses is Gretchen's Bridal

Looks Better in Photos

Your wedding photos are images that you’ll look back on for years to come. Ill-fitting bridesmaid dresses are sure to stand out in pictures – and not in a good way. Shop in-store to avoid these cheap looking gowns and help your bridesmaids feel beautiful when taking photos on your special day. 

Rest assured that you will find the best place for bridesmaid dresses is Gretchen’s Bridal! Skip the online shopping and book an appointment with us today to browse our collection of bridesmaid dresses, or fill out our easy-to-use Measurement Form!

Filed Under: Wedding Planning

Best Wedding Hairstyles to Match Your Dress

February 9, 2021 By //  by Gretchen Reynolds

When choosing a hairstyle for your wedding, it’s also important to consider the style of your dress. While some necklines look better with a tight updo, others might pair well with a softer hairstyle. From chic buns to loose waves, here’s an easy guide on how to pick the best wedding hairstyles to match your dress neckline.

how to choose the best wedding hairstyles

Low Back

Low or open-back dresses can be breathtaking, and are meant to be shown off. Instead of hiding the details, we’ve found that some of the best wedding hairstyles for a low back dress are textured braids and low ponytails. Depending on the design of your dress, half up/half down styles are great as well – especially for shorter hair. You can also pull your hair back into a relaxed fishtail braid to accentuate the low back neckline. 

low back wedding dress hairstyle tips
Photo Courtesy of Erich McVey

Strapless

Perhaps the most popular neckline is a strapless wedding dress. It’s also incredibly versatile and allows you to be more creative with your hairstyle. Opt to wear your hair down with loose waves, or even wear it half-up if you can’t decide on an updo. For brides who want to show off their shoulders, we recommend a high ballerina bun for added glamour.

elegant updo wedding hair
Photo Courtesy of Emily Delamater

High Neck

Not only is a high neck gown one of the more dramatic necklines, it also draws the eye directly up to your face. This is ideal for a chic updo to let your neckline be the main focus of your dress. Sweeping your hair back into a textured bun or sleek ponytail can also help keep your wedding hairstyle simple yet elegant. 

Off the Shoulder

An off the shoulder neckline is both feminine and romantic, just as your hairstyle should be to match. Similar to a strapless dress, an off the shoulder gown allows you to style your hair in numerous ways. Keep it soft with loose waves that are side-swept with a beautiful hairpin or floral headpiece. This neckline also works well with textured braids or a charming braided updo with a few floating curls. 

off the shoulder bridal gown
Photo Courtesy of Nicole Aston Photography

Boat Neck

A boat neckline, also known as a bateau neck, is a classic design that stretches across your collarbone creating a horizontal neckline. We recommend pulling your hair back into a  low bun or chignon to frame your face. Keeping the hair off your shoulders will highlight your shoulders, as well as making your face the center of your wedding day ensemble. For a more modern look, you can also opt for a high pony or low side bun balanced with a fun hair accessory. 


Are you still searching for the perfect dress for your big day? Book an appointment with one of our bridal specialists today and browse our 600+ wedding dress styles!

Filed Under: Wedding Planning

Small Wedding Bouquet Ideas That are Simply Stunning

February 2, 2021 By //  by Gretchen Reynolds

Not only is a smaller bridal bouquet easier to carry and often more affordable, it can also help accentuate your wedding dress to show off your flattering silhouette. Here are just a few small wedding bouquet ideas to help inspire your florals on your special day.

beautiful small wedding bouquet ideas

Pomanders

Photo Courtesy of Alice Keeney Photography

A classic pomander bouquet is a sphere-shaped flower arrangement usually suspended by a ribbon on your wrist. While this is traditionally carried by the flower girl, it also makes a beautiful and unexpected bridal bouquet. You can customize to your liking such as adding colorful jewels, or suspending the flowers with a string of pearls or twine instead.

All Greenery

One of our favorite trends for a small wedding bouquet is an ensemble made up of all greenery. This is an especially great option if you’ll be hosting a backyard or outdoor ceremony, or for a rustic wedding theme. There’s a large selection of greenery you can choose from such as ferns, ivy, eucalyptus and more. 

Single Stem

Photo Courtesy of Jordan Brittley

Keep your wedding bouquet simple and choose only one elegant, large bloom flower such as a single hydrangea to make up your bouquet. While this is more minimal, it can also be far more eye-catching. Don’t forget to keep the stem long so you can easily carry it down the aisle, and finish the look with a satin ribbon tied around the stem. 

Floral Hoop 

Photo Courtesy of Mecca Gamble

Skip the traditional wedding bouquet all together and instead opt for a beautiful floral hoop. This one of a kind bridal accessory is sure to make a statement – and you can decorate the hoop with whatever flowers you’d like. We recommend white roses and a bit of greenery for an added romantic touch, or flowers that match your wedding colors are great as well. 

Dried Flowers

One of the newer trends we’ve seen emerge in recent months is dried flowers in place of a fresh bouquet. You can find them in a variety of textures and colors, which makes for a truly unique small wedding bouquet. Some of our favorite dried flower options include pampas grass, palm leaves and seed pods. And since they’re already dry, you’ll be able to keep your wedding bouquet as a keepsake long after your ceremony! 

Still searching for your dream dress to match your small wedding bouquet? Book an appointment with one of our bridal specialists today to find the dress style that works best for you! 

Filed Under: Wedding Planning

Why Colorful Bridal Shoes May Be the Accessory You Need

January 26, 2021 By //  by Gretchen Reynolds

Creating your dream wedding day look doesn’t end with just your dress. Add a playful twist on tradition with a pop of color for your shoes, whether it’s a bold hue or pretty pastel. Here are a few details to consider when choosing colorful bridal shoes for your wedding day.

wedding day colorful bridal shoes

Consider Shoe Style

The style of your bridal shoe is very dependent on your dress’ style, along with your own personal style as well. Do you prefer a classic strappy sandal, or something more bold such as a peep toe pump? You can also match the fabric of your dress to your colorful bridal shoes such as silk or satin, or add extra details such as beading, florals or lace designs. 

Compliment Your Color Palette

When choosing a shoe color, it’s important to keep in mind your overall color palette. This includes your wedding colors, decor and style of your dress. Don’t be afraid to add a surprising pop of color with your shoes such as electric blue, a classic red or a metallic jewel tone that pairs with nearly everything. 

Playful Patterns

Another great option to consider when opting for colorful bridal shoes is a fun, playful pattern or print. This is most ideal if your wedding dress style is more simple and won’t clash with the pattern of your shoes. Florals are a popular go-to design, or you can choose a more bold print such as a geometric design, nautical stripes or animal print. We recommend matching some colors of the pattern to your wedding colors as well for a more cohesive bridal look.

Timeline

While you do have more time allotted to shop for bridal shoes, you should aim to have your chosen pair in-hand for your very first alterations appointment. Not only does this allow you to see your full bridal ensemble together with your dress, shoes and any accessories, it’s also important for the tailor to hem your dress accurately with your heel height.

In the end, you should feel comfortable and beautiful in whichever colorful bridal shoes you choose for your special day. Looking for a dress to match your shoes? Book an appointment with us today and shop our selection of more than 600 dress styles! 

Filed Under: Wedding Planning

2021 Wedding Colors That You Must See

January 12, 2021 By //  by Gretchen Reynolds

One of the first and most important steps in the wedding planning process is choosing your overall color scheme. From old school brights to classic blue, here are some of the trending 2021 wedding colors that you’ll be seeing this year.

trending colors for 2021 weddings

Powder Blue

While blue has always been a classic wedding color, light blue is rising in popularity for 2021. This playful color works especially well for spring and summer weddings, but can also be combined with darker hues such as navy for winter and fall ceremonies. We recommend creating a beautiful fresh bouquet with some of your favorite blue flowers such as hydrangeas, sweet peas and delphiniums.

Papaya Orange

papaya orange is a hot 2021 wedding color
Photo Courtesy of Kristen Weaver Photography

This is one of our favorite 2021 wedding colors! Bright and vibrant, papaya orange is a more trendy version of the traditional coral and peach colors you often see at weddings. This accent color looks great with other vibrant hues and earthy tones alike so style it how you see fit with your own wedding decor. 

Champagne 

Not only does champagne make a great celebratory beverage, it’s also a trending wedding color for the new year. Neutral colors have become increasingly popular and are expected to remain for 2021. We recommend champagne colored dresses for your bridesmaids for an elegant touch, along with a neutral color palette for your wedding invitations, florals and more. 

Greenery

green is a trending wedding color in 2021
Photo Courtesy of Charlotte Jenks Lewis Photography

From deep forest green to a lighter pistachio, green is one of the most universally flattering colors on all skin tones. We expect to see green hues make a comeback as one of the most prominent 2021 wedding colors. Since your bouquet and florals will already include some greenery, bring a fresh feel to your wedding colors by mixing darker and lighter greens together throughout your decor. 

Old School Brights

color palettes for weddings
Photo Courtesy of Elizabeth Burgi

The 80’s and 90’s had some of the most fun colors throughout the decades, and they’re here again for 2021. With bold colors such as fuschia, cerulean and cherry red, this color collection makes creating your color palette a piece of cake. We recommend adding a few statement pieces as well such as a customized neon sign with you and your partner’s names or even a brightly colored tux for the groom!  

Book an appointment with us today to find the perfect dress to match your 2021 wedding colors! We also have bridesmaids dresses and tuxedos so you can ensure a coordinated color palette. 

Filed Under: Wedding Planning

A Christmas Themed Wedding: Everything You Need to Plan Your Big Day

November 17, 2020 By //  by Gretchen Reynolds

Christmas is one of our favorite times of year, from festive decorations to the holiday music and overall good cheer. It’s also one of the most fun seasons to plan a wedding! Here are a few of our best tips for planning your own Christmas themed wedding to get you in the holiday spirit.

tips for an unforgettable christmas themed wedding

Send Early Invites

Since your wedding will be hosted in the middle of the holiday season, we recommend sending out your invitations as soon as possible. People are generally busier this time of year and the sooner they have your wedding invite, the sooner they can save the date. This is especially helpful for anyone who may be traveling to your wedding so they can make accommodations early as well.

Find a Festive Venue

The holidays are the most festive time of year, which also means beautiful decorations. Whether you’re looking for fresh pine trees, snow, string lights or wreaths, try searching for a venue that has all of the above! Many venues will put up full holiday decorations that fit perfectly with a Christmas themed wedding. It also takes a lot of the stress off of you when it comes to finding and planning decor.

christmas theme wedding

Create a Themed Playlist

What better way to get down on the dance floor than with your favorite Christmas songs? There are almost endless songs to choose from when it comes to creating a holiday playlist for your wedding. Curate your own playlist on an app like Spotify or simply ask your DJ to create their own playlist of Christmas tunes. Some of our upbeat favorites include “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” and “Run Rudolph Run”.

Choose a Holiday Palette

While the traditional Christmas colors are red and green, don’t be afraid to stray from these and find a holiday palette that fits your wedding. Warm colors look great with holiday decor such as maroon, emerald or navy. Or go more frosty with whites and neutral colors to recreate the look of snow. You can also add in some pops of shine with silver and gold accents, or even velvet.

wedding theme christmas

Have a Dessert Bar

Some of our favorite desserts come out at Christmas, so why not treat your guests to some holiday goodies as well? Set up a bar full of the traditional favorites such as spiced apple cider or hot chocolate. Guests can then add their own garnishes such as peppermint, cinnamon sticks, toffee and marshmallows. You can also make it adult friendly by having some alcoholic beverages on the side.

Give Fun Wedding Favors

Everyone loves going home with a great party favor! Not only do they serve as a fun souvenir of your special day, you can also get creative with your gift bags – especially for a Christmas themed wedding! Add a few seasonal treats such as an ornament with your wedding date or initials, mini bottles of eggnog, jingle bells or a mini wreath they can hang at home. You can also raffle off your centerpieces at the end of the night so a few lucky guests can go home with a beautiful floral arrangement or centerpiece of your choice.

Don’t forget one of the most important parts of the wedding planning process – finding the perfect dress! Book an appointment with us today and come browse one of Indiana’s largest selection of wedding gowns!

Filed Under: Wedding Planning

Planning a Small Intimate Wedding: Your Ultimate Guide

October 20, 2020 By //  by Gretchen Reynolds

While small weddings have become the new normal this year, they also have a few advantages such as a less expensive budget and a more stress-free planning process. Here are some of our best tips for planning a small intimate wedding that you’ll never forget.

learn how to plan a small, intimate wedding yourself

Limit the Guest List

Our first tip for planning a small intimate wedding is to look at who you are planning to invite. An easy way to keep your guest list down for a small intimate wedding is to limit your guests’ plus ones. Depending on how small you’d like to keep it, you can choose to allow plus ones only for guests who are in long-term relationships or even have an age limit of 18 years or older. We recommend including this on your wedding invitations as well so guests can plan ahead and give you an accurate RSVP.

Make It Personal

With a smaller guest list, you’ll also be able to add some personalization where you can. Get creative with some fun welcome boxes for your guests or party favors that they’re sure to love. If your guest list is under 10 to 20, you can even consider monogramming a few of their favors with their initials or names, such as a warm blanket or glassware for them to bring home.

Sit Family Style

Another simple idea to create a more intimate atmosphere for your wedding day is to setup family-style banquet tables. Not only does it make it easy to have great conversations with all the guests at your table, it’s also more cozy with everyone all together instead of separated at different tables. If your wedding will be taking place in the warmer months, we recommend setting up your table outside along with some romantic string lighting and candles for the table.

Stay the Weekend

Since you’ll have a much smaller guest list, it can be fun to make your wedding a weekend-long affair and invite your guests to stay on-site. When searching for the perfect wedding venue, be sure to check if they offer accommodations as well to make it easier. You can even leave some fun personalized goodies in your guests’ rooms before they check in.

Splurge a Little

One of the best parts of having a small intimate wedding is it gives you more room in your budget to splurge in the areas you really care about. Since you’ll be saving money on things like a large catering order, you can use that money for things like a beautiful ice sculpture, extra special florals or a great photographer!

Still searching for the perfect dress for your small intimate wedding? Book an appointment with us today and get 10% off your first appointment!

Filed Under: Wedding Planning Tagged With: wedding planner

Unexpected Bridesmaid Dress Colors That Might Surprise You

October 6, 2020 By //  by Gretchen Reynolds

We know choosing a great color for your bridesmaid dress can seem overwhelming. While your bridesmaids may have different preferences, finding a color that looks great on all doesn’t have to be a challenge. Here are a few unexpected bridesmaid dress colors that may just surprise you.

how to choose bridesmaid dress colors

Sunshine Yellow

While yellow may be intimidating to some, a bold sunshine yellow looks surprisingly good on a wide variety of skin tones. We recommend pairing the color with some fresh greenery in your bouquets. Yellow is also an especially great bridesmaid dress color for the spring or summer months, or for an outdoor wedding.

Jewel Tones

Jewel tones are one of our favorite color schemes for bridesmaid dresses. They’re chic and sophisticated, yet still allow you to have fun with the rich colors. Some of our favorites are emerald green, deep purple or even a shimmering gold.

Shades of Gray

Simple yet elegant, a classic gray is a great choice of bridesmaid dress colors if you’re looking for something more minimal for your bridesmaids. Whether you opt for a darker gray or go a bit lighter, the color will also go well with nearly any and all accessories as well.

Mix + Match

Another truly unexpected bridesmaid dress color is mixing and matching your favorites. Choose a color palette that goes well with your wedding colors and theme, then let your bridesmaids choose different shades within that palette. This also allows your bridesmaids to wear a color they feel comfortable in for your special day.

Not sure what florals you want for your special day? Check out some of these trending bridal bouquets that are perfect for your wedding! Don’t forget that in addition to bridal gowns we offer a huge selection of bridesmaids dresses for you big day. Come see us so we can help you find the dress of your dreams!

Filed Under: Wedding Planning Tagged With: bridesmaids

How to Have an Online Wedding and Still Make it Special

September 15, 2020 By //  by Gretchen Reynolds

While large gatherings have been put on hold for the time being, many couples have turned to online weddings to say their “I do’s”. Some states have even made virtual wedding ceremonies legal, such as California, New York and Iowa! Here are a few ideas to help you have the best online wedding and still make it special for you and your guests.

the best way to have your online wedding

Do Some Decorating

Whether you’re having your online wedding in the outdoors, your backyard or even in your living room, don’t forget the decorations! Opt for some fun wedding-themed decor such as banners, ring-shaped balloons and a custom photo background to really set the mood.

Live Stream Your Wedding

With so many couples opting for a virtual wedding, live streaming your ceremony is a great way to include all your friends and family who can’t be there in person. It’s also incredibly easy as long as you have a good internet connection! Choose from a variety of platforms like Zoom or Facebook Live, and anyone who tunes in can watch you say “I do”.

Virtual Reception

An online wedding can still have an amazing after party! Invite your guests to get dressed up for the event and celebrate with your closest family and friends. You can use the same streaming platform as your live stream with all the same fun as an in-person reception. Create a playlist of your favorite tunes, invite guests to make toasts, cut your cake and sip on cocktails together to celebrate your new marriage. 

Take Photos

Your wedding day is something you’ll remember for the rest of your life – don’t forget to take time throughout your ceremony and reception to capture the moment as well! Whether you have a friend, family member or photographer who can take photos (at a safe distance) or if you take them yourselves with self timer, these are memories you’ll cherish forever!

Still need to find a dress for your online wedding? Book an appointment with us today to shop our full collection of bridal gowns in sizes 0-32!

Filed Under: Wedding Planning

Fall Bridal Bouquets: Trending Floral Arrangements for Your Big Day

September 1, 2020 By //  by Gretchen Reynolds

With so many beautiful blooming flowers, fall is full of options to include in your wedding day bouquet. Dahlias, sunflowers and roses are just a few of our favorites in season during this time of year. They can all come together to create a gorgeous floral arrangement! Here are a few trending ideas to draw inspiration from when making your own fall bridal bouquet.

fall bridal bouquets that you will love

Monochromatic Colors

Can’t decide on a favorite flower? Go with a simple yet elegant monochromatic color scheme for your bouquet! Choose as many flowers as you’d like in the same color palette. We recommend using no more than four different shades of the same color to create this effect so your bouquet isn’t too overwhelming. 

Dry Flowers

A big trend we’re seeing for fall is brides choosing dried flowers for a more neutral, rustic look to their bridal bouquets. Dried lavender and daisies are two of our favorites to add as an accent to your arrangement! You can even press and dry the flowers yourself, and keep them long after your ceremony for the memories. 

Go Green

With so many fall weddings taking place outdoors in the nice weather, go all natural with a simple all green bouquet. Incorporate green leaves and vines along with a few floral additions such as baby’s breath, ferns and eucalyptus. 

More Than Flowers

Your fall bridal bouquet doesn’t need to be limited to only flowers! The season is known for its bright foliage and you can take advantage of that in your own bouquet. Add in a few autumn leaves, some small branches and even berries to create more texture in your floral arrangement. 

Will you be hosting your wedding outdoors this fall? Check out some of our outdoor wedding ideas for the season when planning your own ceremony!

 

Filed Under: Wedding Planning Tagged With: bouquet, flowers

Fall Outdoor Wedding Ideas: How to Plan Your Ceremony

August 25, 2020 By //  by Gretchen Reynolds

If you can’t decide between a winter or summer wedding, fall is the perfect compromise. Not too hot or too cold, you can also move your ceremony outdoors and enjoy the crisp autumn air. From seasonal flowers to tasty desserts, these are a few of our favorite fall outdoor wedding ideas to make your day extra fun.

beautiful fall wedding ideas for your big day

Outdoor Seating

Fall is a great time to take advantage of the nice weather and have outdoor seating for both your ceremony and reception. Create your table settings and centerpieces with your wedding colors while adding a few seasonal touches such as gourds, apples and autumn leaves. You can also use hay bales or wooden chairs to add to the outdoor ambiance for your ceremony. 

Plan for Weather

While fall is known for its more temperate weather, it’s also good to have a backup plan in case Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate on your wedding day. Outdoor space heaters and heat lamps can help keep your guests warm in the later hours when the sun goes down, or you can opt for a tent if you feel more comfortable. You can also have some throw blankets on hand as your wedding favors for extra warmth. 

Seasonal Flowers

Use your outdoor venue to its fullest by adding some fresh seasonal flowers to your decor. Dahlias and roses are two of our favorite in-bloom flowers during fall. Add them to your centerpieces or bouquet for some extra special floral arrangements. You can even combine all your favorites together to create a beautiful flower arch for when you say “I do”. 

Dessert Bar

As you get into the cooler hours of the day, a dessert bar is a great way to warm up your guests. A hot chocolate bar is a fun way to keep everyone warm and cozy with all the best garnishes like peppermint and cinnamon. You can even add some hot toddies for the adults. We recommend choosing some easy to grab desserts as well such as a donut tower, cupcakes or mini apple pies as well. 

Need some more fall wedding ideas inspiration to get you started? Check out some of our favorite outdoor wedding venues in Indianapolis for your special day!

Filed Under: Wedding Planning

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