5 Tips For Finding the Perfect Wedding Dress

​You've saved a few bridal dresses to a Pinterest board. Your friends and family bought you a few wedding magazines which you have dogged eared pages of potential wedding day looks. Now you feel like you have a general idea of your dream dress. We can't tell you how many of our clients have said "I thought I wanted lace but when I tried on that style it wasn't me" or "I wanted a big poofy princess dress, but when I had it on in the shop I thought I wouldn't be able to sit down". Our biggest advice is to try on many different styles even if you don't think its what you want, and you might surprise yourself! We've rounded up our top 5 tips for finding the prefect wedding dress.

​When to Buy 

​The dress should be one of your first purchases when planning a wedding. We recommend starting your search 12 to 9 months before your big day. These gowns are typically custom made and made to order. Once your gown arrives, it might need alterations. Usually, you'll have two to four fittings depending on what alternations you need or want. 

​Budget

​Make sure you have a budget in mind. Call around to different bridal boutiques and make sure they carry dresses in your price range. Falling in love with a $10,000 dress when your budget is $1,500 is not a good way to start your big day gown search. 

​Your Body Type 

​When looking for a dress search for styles that will flatter and accentuate your best features. You should also try on different cuts to see what you are most comfortable with, and you might surprise yourself and choose something completely different than you initially thought you would. 

Dress for the Season

​Are you having a summer wedding outdoors in 80 degree heat? Then you might want a light and breathable gown with short sleeves. Having a winter wedding in Tahoe? A heavier fabric dress with sleeves might be more suitable. Weigh out your options and comfort level when choosing your dress. 

​Who to Bring

​Who do you want by your side when trying on wedding dresses? Everyone is different, some brides bring both their parents while others have their bridesmaids. The choice is 1000% yours. We do recommend bringing people who will make the experience fun, memorable and give you advice in a nice way! 

A Few of Our Favorite Bridal Gown Shops 

Bride to Be Couture - Carmichael, CA 
The Bridal Vault - Jamestown, CA 
Grace Loves Lace  - Los Angeles, CA 
Lovely Bride - San Francisco, CA 
Wilde Bride - San Francisco, CA  

​Remember at the end of the day picking your dress is about how YOU feel and what YOU like. You'll want to feel your best and be comfortable on your wedding day. Like Marie Kondo would say "Does this dress spark joy?" 

Let us know if you have additional tips or share your favorite bridal dress shop.

Until next time lovelies!

xoxo, 

​Tin & Twine