Shopping for your DREAM wedding dress is supposed to be magical and unforgettable, yet it can be still be super stressful and overwhelming. It’s been a while since I posted a “Bride’s How To” so I’m sharing a quick overview of how to find the perfect dress, while staying stress free.

To me, this is the most amazing part of wedding planning. Finally trying on a wedding gown after years of dreaming of this day is surreal. Although you may not find your perfect dress right away, the experience is one of the most special moments of my life. I hope this cheat sheet of tips for shopping around for your gown is helpful to any bride-to-be.

1. DO YOUR RESEARCH

I am a firm believer in knowing what you want before you are asked or in a situation where you are going to be asked what it is you are looking for. Call my Type A if you will, but I like to be prepared in all aspects of life, especially something as important as this.

First, know what silhouettes best suit your body. Start by researching gowns that are essential for your body type, and would allow you to feel comfortable and glamorous. Ask yourself what will make you look the most divine on your big day? I did plenty of dress stalking prior to trying on one single dress. I created a secret Pinterest board, complete with about 100 looks I wanted to try. Then I went back through, and narrowed it down to my favorite styles. This process allowed me to see what style I was most fond of. You may find it helpful, or you may find that you like the complete opposite when you’re in the dressing room.

From there I began to research the designers I liked and which stores carried the designers that I wanted to see. I found it pointless to go to a bridal boutique that didn’t carry at least a few designers that I liked during my research phase. It paid off in the end to do this. The stores I went in, all had more than a few dresses that I loved.

Lastly, research price point. I could have / should have mentioned this first, but nobody likes to look at the price tag. I HIGHLY suggest not going in a store you already know is over budget. It’s heartbreaking to try on a dress that you love, but you can’t afford. Just don’t even do it to yourself. Trust me. Researching the boutiques before you confirm an appointment can be so helpful with knowing what price range they carry and you can begin to prepare yourself for sticker shock.

2. PLAN YOUR DAY

Who do you plan to take with you and what do you want to accomplish? These are two very important questions to ask yourself before you make your appointments. I knew I wanted my dress shopping day to be a small crowd, as I am very critical of myself in a dressing room. I also am very aware of styles I like and I didn’t want too much commotion or distraction.

This day is supposed to be fun and relaxing, because when you hear the cash register adding up, the stress begins. If you are just planning to look and not shop, don’t bring a million people with you. It’s just too much on everyone. If you plan find your dress, be patient yet persistent in your search. Prepare a few days before by circling back with your ideas and inspiration, and make sure your party of guests for the day know where they are going and the plans for the entire day.

(Above: Emily, My Future Mother-in-law & Terri, My Mom)

3. TRUST YOUR GUT

We’ve seen it a million times on Say Yes To The dress, so don’t let someone else’s opinion stand in the way of your perfect dress. Trust your gut, as you would any major decision in life. This is a pricey decision that you truly don’t want to second guess or settle for less. You will also hear this about a million times, but this you and your fiance’s day. When and if that ever gets lost in the planning process, bring yourself back to that. What dress or look achieves what you picture as the best day ever? If it suits you and your budget and your vision, girl GO FOR IT!

(Above: Not My Dress, Just One I Tried On!)

4. KNOW YOUR BOUTIQUE

I firmly believe in making good relationships wherever I go. When it comes to planning a big event like a wedding, this statement could not ring more true. These relationships are formed on trust that they share in the same vision and hopes that you do as a bride. It can be anyone from the linen company to your dress designer. I think that trust is a huge component of being a stress-free bride. I LOVE my dress designer and her staff. I couldn’t be more thrilled to work them. I can’t imagine buying a dress and not knowing who to call or speak to when it comes to crunch time. I have worked in retail before, and I know the importance of this on both ends. Feel comfortable with your experience in their store and feel comfortable once you leave the store. This is huge!

(Above: Olia Zavozina, My Wedding Dress Designer)

5. TAILOR TO PERFECTION

Don’t be afraid to ask for your dress to fit like a glove. It’s supposed to. Know that you are wearing your dress, and that the dress was made for you. I think this definitely relates to confidence on the day of. You want to be comfortable, confident and 100 percent yourself as you embark on a brand new part of life. If something doesn’t feel right or fit right, it’s hard to be relaxed. At least I feel that way anyways. I am thrilled that my designer will also be altering my dress and fitting my dress for me. Knowing that, I am at ease with the process. It makes me feel more confident as a bride and in the purchase I made.

(Above: Inside The Olia Zavozina Flagship Store)

INTERESTED IN MORE WEDDING POSTS?

Comment below or email me your suggestions. As wedding planning and the parties begin this summer for our big day, this is a great time to share with you all my personal experiences and advice. Let me know what you would like to see next!

XO, Alex