So you’ve se the date. The cards are all addressed and mailed, and if your internet service provider checked your browsing history, it would look like an explosion of tiered cakes and white dresses. But it’s one thing to look at dresses online and quite another to get out there and start the fitting process. Before the heroine sets out on her long journey, it’s best to be armed with some basic knowledge.
- Start Early.
I know. I know. It sounds like someone advising you to get up early for a final exam or job interview, but this cannot be stressed enough. It can take up to 6 months for a dress to be made-to-order. The farther you put your dress up on your “To Do List” the better.
- Make a Budget.
How much do wedding dresses cost? I take no pleasure in telling this to you, but the average costs are actually going up. In 2013, the national average brides spent on wedding dresses was 1,281 (breath). Know the costs and what to spend and stick to it.
- Season Equals Fabric.
Ever hear a bride describe how they’re freezing or sweating in their dresses? There’s a reason for that and it isn’t just nerves. Choose thicker woven fabrics like brocade for the Fall and Winter, and softer, lighter fabrics like batiste for the warmer seasons.
- Bring a Friend. Avoid The Entourage.
It’s great to bring along a friend for the usual suspects of reasons (second opinion, we’re social creatures, etc.). Bring along a friend or two, but crowds of four or more cause problems. You’ll get so many opinions, you won’t be able to hear yourself think, and the boutiques may not appreciate the crowding.
- Wear Appropriate Underwear and Shoes.
You’ll spend the day being fitted in and out of dresses. Wear a strapless bra, and bring along heels of similar height that you’ll wear down the aisle.
- Don’t Cheat Your Complexion.
If you want to find a color or tone that truly fits you, you’ll need to have a base. Don’t pile on the make-up and avoid fake tans.
- Embrace Your Inner Paralegal.
Don’t be afraid to go over the contract like an overzealous legal student about to take their Bar Exam. Make sure the color, fabric, designer, number of fittings and deposit are agreed upon and in print before you jot down your Jane Doe.
- Calling Boutiques Saves Time and Stress in The Long Run.
Before you head to each boutique, call. Make sure if there is a service fee for trying dresses on. If you want to take pictures, know ahead of time of they allow it (most don’t). Book an appointment, if you have to. Weekends can be insanely busy.
- As You Walk Through The Valley of The Shadow of Boutiques, You Shall Fear No Rentals.
You may not have a dress to show or pass along to future generations, but your checking account will thank you. Rentals can be anywhere from 200 to 800 dollars. Nothing to scoff at, but still better than the rising costs of buying.
- Perseverance Yields Greater Rewards
Make peace with the fact that you may go through dozens upon dozens of fittings before you find your dream dress. Don’t get discouraged.
