Going to the Chapel

My dear darling bride-to-be cousin is soon to be dress shopping for the dress...that's her wedding dress for those few men who actually read this. She recently sent me an email asking for some advice and ideas. Having been through this fun, but extremely overwhelming experience about two years ago, I have a few tips for Cynthia and for other brides looking for the perfect wedding day duds.

1. Make an appointment! Most bridal salons require it, particularly for weekends.
2 Look through bridal magazines before you go. This way, you'll have an idea of what you like when you arrive at the bridal salon. Bonus points for tearing out pages to show to your bridal consultant.
3. Know your budget and don't hesitate to be firm when being offered dresses that don't meet it.
4. Bring your nearest and dearest. This is a special occasion and it's nice to have your fondest family and friends in tow. My Mother and 3 bridesmaids accompanied me on our whirlwind bridal and bridesmaid dress shopping weekend.
5. Wear comfortable undergarments that won't make you blush if your mother, grandmother, friends, bridal consultant and 10 other brides in the salon see as you parade around trying on dress after dress!
6. Bring a strapless bra.
7. Know the timing and season for your wedding. For a summer wedding, you probably won't want a heavy fabric and likewise, for a January wedding, chiffon just won't do.
8. If you find a designer that you love, look for locations when they may be hosting a trunk show. You can usually find discounts from 10-15% which can be substantial when looking at a pricey dress.
9. Try on different accessories if you find a few dresses between which you cannot decide. A veil, crinolin or necklace might make your decision for you.
10. Keep an open mind. You never know...that the beaded mermaid cut your maid of honor picks might turn out to be drop dead gorgeous on you!
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