I’m Engaged! Now What?
November 27th, 2024 | Ashton Clark
How to Prepare for Your Dress Shopping Journey
Finding the perfect wedding dress is an exciting adventure, and proper preparation can enhance your experience. Here’s how to get ready for your dress shopping journey:
1. Determine Your Timeline
Start Early: We recommend beginning your search about one year in advance. Aim to purchase your dress no later than nine months before your wedding to allow for customizations, alterations, and bridal portraits.
Order Time: Bridal gowns typically take 4-6 months to arrive once ordered. If your wedding is in six months or less, don’t worry! Some designers offer rush options based on style and size, and our sample sale section lets you purchase off the rack.
2. Identify Your Wedding Dress Style
Think about the style you envision: Is it a garden party floral dress, a classic ball gown with sleeves, or perhaps a romantic chantilly lace gown? While you may start with an idea, be open to exploring different options during your appointment.
3. Limit Your Shopping Appointments
Once you find a boutique that aligns with your style, you don’t need to schedule multiple appointments elsewhere. Our carefully curated showroom offers a wide range of bridal styles, ensuring you have a comprehensive shopping experience.
4. Determine Your Budget
Wedding expenses can add up quickly, so it’s essential to establish a budget for your dress early on. Tesori’s bridal gowns range from $2,000 to $10,000, with the majority falling between $3,500 and $5,500 (excluding alterations or accessories). Always check with boutiques about their price ranges before scheduling.
5. Gather Your Bridal Entourage
Bring along key people whose opinions you trust. Whether it’s just one person or a small group (ideally, Bride + 5), make sure they’re supportive and honest. If someone can’t be there, we can set up a FaceTime call to include them in the moment!
6. What to Wear Wedding Dress Shopping
Undergarments: Wear skin-tone undergarments and a strapless bra or petals.
Hair and Makeup: Arriving with your hair and makeup done helps you envision your overall look on your wedding day. This makes it easier for your stylist to suggest accessories that complement your gown. (Check out our Glam & Glo Private Bridal Appointment)
7. Communicate with Your Stylist
Your bridal stylist is your biggest ally in this process. Share any feelings of anxiety, preferences, or must-haves. Open communication ensures you’re comfortable and helps the stylist understand your vision better.
8. Have Your Inspiration Ready
Create a Pinterest board or album in your phone filled with wedding dress ideas, color schemes, and venue inspirations to share with your stylist. This will guide them in selecting dresses that align with your vision.
9. Questions to Ask Before Scheduling a Bridal Appointment
Do you require an appointment to shop?
How long does the appointment last?
Is there a cost for the appointment?
Is there a cancellation fee?
How many dresses can I typically try on?
What is the maximum number of guests I can bring?
Do you offer private bridal appointments?
By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared for a delightful and memorable dress shopping experience.
We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
With Love from Arkansas,
Ashton
