YAY! You are engaged! You’ve had a minute to celebrate and now it’s time to get to work. Before you do anything else, be sure to do these two things first. Once you’ve completed them, it’s time to go wedding dress shopping! This experience is fun, exhilarating, and honestly, emotional. I remember when I first put on a wedding dress it was such a surreal experience. I never dreamed of a “perfect” dress or what I would look like in white, but needless to say, it was an emotional experience.
I went to two different shops to try on dresses. The first shop was filled with beautiful lace dresses with a variety of styles. I asked my stylist to put me in one of every style and cut. I wanted to be sure I tried on every style before deciding what I liked best. By the time I got to the second shop, I knew what kind of dress I was looking for—strapless, lace, a-line. The last dress I tried on was the dress.
I walked out of the dressing room and immediately the people I was with started to tear up and we all knew. This was my wedding dress.But, I didn’t buy it that day. Here’s why.
First of all, my mother-in-law wasn’t able to make it to the second appointment and I really wanted her to see it before I bought it. Second, I wanted to sleep on it to make sure I was firm in my decision. I tend to be a very emotional person and I wanted to ensure I wasn’t buying this dress just because it was a pretty white dress. I wanted to be sure it was my wedding dress.
I went back a few days later to show my mother-in-law and not only did she love it, but I felt at peace that I loved the dress. Here’s my biggest piece of advice:
Don’t buy your wedding dress right away. Take a few days, re-look at pictures, and take time to make sure you’re sure it’s your dress. I’m not saying to second-guess yourself, but it’s always good to take some time to think before you make a big decision.
Bonus tip?Take some time in front of the mirror for yourself. Before I went out to show the people who were with me, I took a moment in the fitting room to think about what I thought. This helped me ensure I was processing my thoughts and my emotions, not anyone else’s. It’s great to get input from family and friends, but ultimately—this is your decision.
It’s important to order your dress early so that you have time for alterations, but it’s more important that you are sure about your decision. I love it when my brides text me their different wedding dress options—I am always honest, I hype them up, and remind them that it is ultimately their decision.
As your wedding photographer, I am here to not only take photographs on your wedding day but also be a resource for you. If you’re ready to inquire, click on the form below and let’s chat!
