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.
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!
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.
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 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!
Find Your Dream Prom Dress at Gretchen’s Bridal