How Many Months Before Your Wedding Should You Get Your Dress? A Helpful Guide for Brides-to-Be
Knowing when to shop for your wedding dress can make your planning much smoother. Experts recommend starting your wedding dress shopping around six to nine months before your big day. This timeline allows you to explore various styles and options without rushing, making it easier to find your dream wedding dress.
As you plan your wedding, it’s essential to also think about your budget early on. Understanding your financial limits helps avoid surprises later. By starting your dress search with a clear idea of your budget and timeline, you can enjoy the shopping experience without added stress.
Getting engaged is an exciting time, and diving into wedding planning can be overwhelming. By knowing when to shop for your dress, you set yourself up for success in other areas of your planning, ensuring everything falls into place for your special day.
Starting the Dress Shopping Journey
Beginning your journey to find the perfect wedding dress can be exciting. Knowing your style, setting a budget, and creating a vision board can help you focus your search and make the process enjoyable. Here’s how to get started.
Determining Your Personal Style
To find the right wedding dress, you should first think about your personal style. Consider what dresses you’ve liked in the past and what makes you feel good.
You can start by looking through bridal magazines and checking out websites like Pinterest and Instagram for inspiration. Create a list of styles you admire, such as A-line, ball gown, or mermaid.
Think about fabrics too—do you love lace, satin, or tulle? Your personal style will help you describe the bridal look you want to your dress consultant.
Setting a Realistic Wedding Dress Budget
Before you dive into shopping, it’s vital to set a wedding dress budget. This will prevent any heartbreak later on. Start by determining how much you can afford without stretching your finances.
A good rule is to allocate about 10-15% of your total wedding budget for the dress. Remember, additional costs might include alterations and accessories.
When setting your budget, research average dress prices in your area to get an idea of what to expect. This way, you can find a beautiful dress that fits both your style and your wallet.
Creating a Vision Board
Creating a vision board can be a fun way to visualize your wedding dress journey. Start by gathering images from bridal magazines, Pinterest, and Instagram.
Select pictures that showcase styles, colors, and details that you find appealing. You can create a physical board or a digital one. This will help you focus on specific elements like neckline shape or embellishments.
Your vision board acts as a helpful reference when you go dress shopping. It allows you to communicate exactly what you’re looking for, making the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Understanding the Timeline for Dress Shopping and Fittings
Getting your wedding dress is an exciting part of planning your wedding. Knowing when to start shopping and schedule fittings helps ensure everything goes smoothly as your wedding day approaches. Here are important details about timing.
Ideal Time to Begin Shopping for Your Gown
You should start shopping for your wedding gown about 10 to 12 months before your wedding day. This allows you time to explore different styles and options.
If you want to customize your dress, starting even earlier is wise. It typically takes around four to six months for a gown to be made, especially if it’s a designer piece.
Always set a budget before heading to the stores. This will help you focus on dresses that fit both your style and your wallet. Remember, falling in love with a gown outside your price range can lead to disappointment.
Scheduling the First, Second, and Final Fittings
Plan your first fitting about three to four months before your wedding. At this fitting, you’ll try on your dress, and the seamstress will make adjustments to ensure a perfect fit. Bring your undergarments, shoes, and any accessories you plan to wear.
A second fitting usually happens about six weeks before the wedding. By this time, most alterations should be complete. You’ll also have a chance to make any final adjustments.
Your final fitting should be scheduled for about one to two weeks before the big day. This is your last chance to check the fit and ensure everything looks just right before you walk down the aisle. Make sure to bring everything you plan to wear on your wedding day for this fitting.
Selecting the Right Bridal Salon and Crew
Finding the perfect bridal salon and choosing the right people to join you can make your wedding dress shopping experience enjoyable. It’s essential to consider the salon’s reputation and the support of your dress shopping crew.
Choosing a Bridal Boutique or Salon
Start by researching local bridal boutiques or salons. Look for places that have good reviews and a wide range of styles. A visit to their website can help you understand the types of dresses they offer.
Consider these points:
- Designer Selection: Check if they carry designers you like.
- Price Range: Make sure their pricing fits your budget.
- Sample Sizes: It’s helpful if they have a variety of sizes available for trying on.
Scheduling a bridal appointment is a great way to see firsthand what the salon offers. You may also want to call ahead to ask about the shopping process and how many dresses you can try on during your visit.
Deciding Who to Bring Along
Choosing trusted friends or family members can make your dress shopping more fun. Select people who will support you and provide honest feedback. Consider these tips when deciding who to bring:
- Limit Your Group: Bringing too many can make it overwhelming. A small group of 2-4 people is often best.
- Mix of Opinions: Seek a balance of supportive friends and those who will give helpful critiques.
- Schedule Together: Ensure your crew can make it to your bridal appointments.
With the right people by your side, you can feel more confident during the shopping process. Their support can help you focus on finding the dress of your dreams.
Final Preparations for Your Dream Dress
As your wedding day approaches, it’s time to focus on making your dress absolutely perfect. You’ll want to ensure it fits you beautifully, accessorize thoughtfully, and prepare for the day ahead. Here’s what you need to consider in your final preparations.
Planning for Alterations and Perfecting the Fit
Your wedding dress needs to fit you like a glove. Start by scheduling dress alterations about 2-4 weeks before the big day. You may need two or more fittings to adjust the hem, bodice, and other details.
Communicate clearly with your tailor about what adjustments you want. Discuss how you prefer the gown to feel, so you can move comfortably. Keep in mind the latest wedding dress trends that might inspire your adjustments, ensuring your gown is both stylish and flattering.
Accessorizing Your Bridal Gown
Choosing the right bridal accessories can elevate your wedding dress. Think about what you want to add—jewelry, veils, or even a stunning belt.
Don’t forget about your wedding shoes. They should match your dress style and be comfortable enough for all-day wear. Look for shoes that offer both flair and support. This will give you the confidence to walk down the aisle with ease.
Preparing for the Wedding Day
Preparation is key for a smooth wedding day. Pack an emergency kit with essentials like a needle and thread, safety pins, and extra makeup for touch-ups. This will give you peace of mind, knowing you’re ready for anything.
On the day of the wedding, make sure to store your dress correctly. Keep it in its garment bag until you’re ready to wear it. This helps prevent wrinkles or damage. Being well-prepared allows you to enjoy your special day without worry!