Starting off with the right mindset, and prep, will make all the difference when looking for ‘the one’!
Trying on wedding dresses is typically one of the most exciting parts of the big day journey. And since you’ve been engaged, you’ve probably been asked an array of confusing wedding dress questions. What kind of gown are you going for? When will you start shopping? Who’s going with you? Can I come…? Everyone is excited for you, but in all the excitement do you actually have the answers to their questions? In celebration of Felicity Rose joining The Kent Wedding Centre, and having their impressive collection now available in our showroom, we thought we’d share some super useful wedding shopping advice.
The kind of advice that’ll help you prepare properly for your first appointment, and ensure a successful experience. Keep reading to brush up on what to keep in mind as you're preparing to shop for wedding dresses for the first time.
How to Prepare for Wedding Dress Shopping
Starting the wedding dress shopping process as early as possible is the most vital advice we can give. One year before the event is ideal, but at least 6 months should be set aside to avoid any kind of rush. This’ll give you 2–3 months for browsing, trying on dresses, and making a selection. And then 4-6 months for the dress to arrive, and for fittings.
Choose an Appointment Carefully
If you can attend an appointment midweek, you’re much more likely to have a relaxed experience. At The Kent Wedding Centre, we have a large, well spaced out showroom that allows multiple brides and bridesmaids to use the area without it feeling busy. But at other, smaller shops you may not have that luxury, and could be sharing the space with other clients. Not ideal.
Aside from the timeslot, consider your guests carefully too. Don’t bring with you more than 3 people, and make sure the guests you invite will offer you positive, constructive advice. The last thing you need during an appointment is someone present who just says yes to everything, or is extremely negative. Bring cheerleaders who’ll help you find a dress you love, not that they love.
Do Some Research
Doing some wedding dress shopping research before you start visiting boutiques will give you an idea of what styles are available, and what you may or may not like.
However, this is just a starting point, a task that will help both you and your consultant during the appointment. Don’t discount anything in your mind before trying it on. If you are not sure about a certain silhouette or embellishment, ask to try it! Every so often a certain design or style will surprise you.
Make Yourself Feel Good
Don’t go crazy with your makeup, and risk ruining the gowns with stains. But be sure to get yourself ready for the appointment in a way that makes you feel good. By having your hair done and makeup en pointe you’ll be in a much more positive mood when trying on dresses. When looking in the mirror everything will just look better, and more in line with how you’ll feel on the day.
Do your hair in a way that resembles the hairstyle you’re thinking of wearing for the wedding. For example, if you know you are going to have your hair pulled back in a low bun, tie it up in that style while trying on dresses. By doing this, you will get a more realistic image of how you will look, and your consultant will be able to find you the perfect accessories to complement your gown.
Eat Before, and Celebrate After
Wedding dress shopping is exhausting! And your mind will be in a million different places. So be sure to eat something before you head out. Whether it’s a complete breakfast, a bowl of something, or some yogurt, get something in your system. Trust us, it will make the shopping trip go much smoother.
Being hangry can affect your mood and attitude towards the dresses and everyone around you. It can make you feel very unmotivated, unexcited and just plain ‘meh’ about shopping, let alone trying on wedding dresses. We’d even recommend bringing a snack for a boost when needed.
Plan something nice for after your appointment too. It’s not everyday you get to try on wedding dresses! Even if you didn’t find the perfect gown, it’s lovely to decamp with your friends/family and share how you felt about the experience over a few wines/pints/cocktails and a well-deserved delicious lunch.
Be Open to Suggestions
This is one of the most important tips for wedding dress shopping! You’ve done your research and know what dress styles you want to try. You may even think you know what style you will end up purchasing. Despite all of this, walk into every appointment with an open mind.
Bridal gowns are created in silhouettes not worn in everyday life, so the only way you’ll know if you like something is to try it on. Be prepared with must-have styles you know want to try on, but also be open to suggestions. Stylists will help you during your appointment, and they’ll know what different styles, shapes and silhouettes will suit you best. Objectively.
Keeping an open mind will make the appointment more enjoyable for everyone. Don’t be afraid to try things outside your comfort zone, but also be honest when you really don’t like something! Otherwise the consultant or stylist will have no idea how to help you. The feedback you give will help them locate your perfect wedding dress!
Ready to start wedding dress shopping? Book your appointment with The Kent Wedding Centre and let us help you find the perfect bridal gown.