Katie Micha Photography

WEDDING DRESS SHOPPING TIPS

Planning + Advice, Weddings

August 21, 2023

Wedding dress shopping is such a fun experience that brides really look forward to!! You get to play around and feel like a bride / princess all day – how awesome is that!

You want to make sure you have a great experience and also find the dress of your dreams! As a photographer, I really understand the importance of your wedding dress AND veil. You want them to go together perfectly and match the vibe of your wedding (ex: boho, classic, fun, sexy, elegant, etc.)!

Wedding dress shopping is a significant and emotional experience for many individuals preparing to tie the knot. Here are some reasons why it holds importance:

Symbolism and Tradition: The wedding dress is a symbol of love, commitment, and the beginning of a new chapter in one’s life. It carries cultural and traditional significance that can be deeply meaningful to the couple and their families.
Personal Expression: A wedding dress allows the bride to express their personal style, preferences, and individuality. It’s a chance to showcase their unique taste and personality on their special day.
Memories and Sentimentality: The process of shopping for a wedding dress often involves close friends, family members, or loved ones. These moments create lasting memories and emotional connections that can be cherished for years to come.
Boosting Confidence: Finding the perfect wedding dress can boost confidence and make the individual feel beautiful on their big day. Wearing a dress that makes them feel comfortable and confident enhances their overall experience.
Creating Anticipation: Wedding dress shopping is a step in the planning process that builds anticipation for the upcoming wedding. It helps couples visualize themselves as a married couple and sets the tone for the celebration.
Photographic Memories: The wedding dress will be featured prominently in photographs and videos, which will be cherished by the couple and their families for generations. Having a dress that matches the vision for the day can contribute to stunning visuals!!
Fulfilling Dreams: Many individuals have dreamed about their wedding day and the perfect dress since they were young. Wedding dress shopping offers the opportunity to turn these dreams into reality.
Social and Emotional Support: Friends and family often accompany individuals during wedding dress shopping. Their presence provides emotional support and adds to the excitement of the experience.
Reflection of Commitment: Selecting a wedding dress is a reminder of the commitment the couple is making to each other. It symbolizes their dedication to creating a beautiful life together.

Overall, wedding dress shopping holds importance not only as a practical aspect of wedding planning but also as an emotional and symbolic experience that contributes to the overall joy and anticipation surrounding the wedding day!!! So make sure you take in the moment, enjoy it, and find that perfect dress to represent you on your big day!!

Here are some wedding dress shopping tips to help you make the most of your experience and find the perfect dress:

Start Early: Begin shopping for your wedding dress well in advance. It can take several tries to find the right dress, and then additional time for alterations!
Research Styles: Look through bridal magazines, websites, and social media platforms to gather ideas and identify the styles you’re drawn to. Having a clear vision of what you like will help you narrow down your options.
Set a Budget: Determine your budget for the dress and accessories before you start shopping. This will help you avoid falling in love with a dress that’s out of your price range.
Shop at Reputable Stores: Visit bridal boutiques and stores with good reputations. Experienced consultants can provide valuable advice and assistance (I have a blog post connected that gives my clients top 5 favorite shops)!
Keep an Open Mind: While having a style in mind is great, be open to trying on different styles. You might be surprised by what looks flattering on you.
Bring a Few Trusted People: Limit the number of people you bring to the appointment. Too many opinions can be overwhelming. Choose people whose input you trust and who understand your style.
Look the Part: Wear make up and fix your hair… this will make you feel more confident and actually give you a better idea of what you will actually look like on the day of your wedding (ex: if you plan on wearing your hair half up, wear it half up when you go shopping)!
Consider Comfort: Remember that you’ll be wearing the dress for an extended period. Choose a dress that not only looks great but is also comfortable to move and sit in! OR opt for a second dress for your reception!
Think About Venue: Consider your wedding venue and theme when choosing a dress. A ball gown might not be suitable for a beach wedding, for example.
Trust Your Instincts: Pay attention to how you feel in each dress. If you feel like a princess or feel incredibly confident, those are signs you might have found the right one!!
Take Pictures: Take photos of yourself in each dress you try on. This will help you remember the details and compare options later.
Consider Alterations: Most dresses will require some alterations to fit perfectly. Factor alteration costs into your budget and time frame!
Don’t Rush: Take your time during each appointment. Don’t feel pressured to make a decision on the spot if you’re not ready.
Ask About Customization: Some dresses can be customized to your liking, such as adding sleeves or changing the neckline. Inquire about customization options so that you can have the perfect dress for you!
Celebrate the Moment: When you find your perfect dress, take a moment to celebrate! It’s a big decision and a special moment to remember <3

Remember, wedding dress shopping is supposed to be an exciting journey, so enjoy the process and trust your instincts. Your dress should reflect your personality and make you feel like the most beautiful version of yourself on your special day, all while fitting the theme / vibe of your wedding!

I hope this was helpful for all the brides out there wedding dress shopping <3