When Should You Start Wedding Dress Shopping?
So, you’ve finally said “yes” to the big question, and now you’re ready to say “yes” to the dress. But when should you start wedding dress shopping? As a bride-to-be, you want to ensure you have enough time to find the perfect dress while staying ahead of the game. Fear not, because I’ve got all the scoop on when to start your wedding dress shopping journey!
Timing is Everything: The Early Bird or the Fashionably Late?
One of the first things to consider is how far in advance you should start looking for your dream dress. While it might be tempting to rush into bridal boutiques the day after your engagement, starting wedding dress shopping about 9-12 months before your wedding day is recommended. This may seem like a long time, but trust me, it flies by when you’re juggling wedding planning and Pinterest boards!
Why Start Early? – I Have So Many Options!
Starting early gives you the advantage of having a wider range of wedding dress options available to you. Bridal boutiques often carry a limited stock of dresses, and other brides-to-be can quickly scoop up popular styles. By starting early, you’ll have plenty of time to visit multiple stores and try on different styles until you find “the one.”
It’s All About Alterations
Another important factor to consider is the time it takes for alterations. Wedding dresses are often customized to fit perfectly, which can take several weeks or even months, depending on the complexity of the alterations needed. Starting early ensures you have enough time to find a skilled seamstress and that your dress will be ready well in advance.
Flexible and Stress-Free Wedding Dress Shopping
Starting early also gives you the luxury of a more relaxed wedding dress shopping experience. You won’t have to worry about rushing to decide or settling for a dress that’s just “okay.” Instead, you can take your time, try on different styles, explore various designers, and make an informed decision without the pressure of an impending deadline.
A Few Final Tips
- Schedule appointments at bridal boutiques in advance to secure your spot and ensure you get the attention you deserve.
- Do your research beforehand and come prepared with some dress styles and designers you want to try.
- Don’t forget to consider additional time for accessories, such as shoes, veils, and jewelry, when planning your wedding dress shopping timeline.
It’s best to start wedding dress shopping 9-12 months before your big day to ensure you have enough time to find the perfect dress, make alterations, and have a stress-free shopping experience. So, grab your entourage, put on your best bridal vibes, and enjoy the process of finding the dress that will make you feel like a million bucks on your wedding day.
References:
