Wedding Dress Shopping

A few tips for anyone wedding dress shopping:

1. Look at magazines and websites to find out what style you like. Bring pictures with you to the bridal salon. The sales associates are very helpful in finding the same or similar dresses. You don't want to waste your entire appointment figuring out what style you like.

2. Tell the bridal salon your budget. You don't want to look at anything you can't afford or else you will be tempted to overspend.

3. Bring one of two people with you - not any more. I didn't go with a large entourage because I didn't want to be influenced by too many opinions. I took my mom and sister - the people that know my style and are brutally honest with me.

4. Start early. Most wedding gowns (unless you are buying off-the-rack) take 6-7 months to arrive and then another month to alter.

6. Research shops before you go. You don't want to waste your time and your friends' time browsing a shop that isn't your style or in your budget.

7. Keep an open mind. I ended up buying a dress that had some lace and beading on it - something that I didn't think I wanted. Try things that people (especially the sales associates) recommend. You might be surprised!

Happy shopping!