SEARCHING FOR YOUR DREAM DRESS Even if you’ve been dreaming about your wedding since you were a child, finding your dream gown can still be nerve-racking. The choice is immense nowadays, and having a whole new language about dresses to learn can be a daunting prospect. Here is a concise list of top tips that, as a bridal consultant with more than 30 years of experience, I think will help you navigate this wonderful adventure: Aim to shop for your gown around eight-12 months before your wedding, as this will give you time to place an order for a bespoke gown if you don’t want to buy an off-the-peg dress. Do your homework! Find independent shops local to you and check their reviews. Look at the images on their website, and if necessary, call them and make sure they have the look and size you want. Always make an appointment. Try to go on a weekday if you can, as Saturdays get very busy, which might make your time really limited! Make enquiries about the cost of the dresses that you like, then you can decide what your budget needs to be in order to get the look that you want. If your budget is less than £1,000, you might need to look at outlet bridal stores. Once you have made your appointment, think carefully about who you want to take with you. Too many differing opinions can make it very confusing, so take a couple of people whose thoughts you value. If you’re going to visit several shops, plan your travel route carefully. It would be ambitious to visit more than three shops in one day. To make your bridal shopping more efficient, visit your priority shops first. Wear a nude or strapless bra on the appointment day, unless you are happy to remove it completely when you’re trying things on. Keep an open mind about trying different styles, even if you think it couldn’t be the one. If you have any concerns, discuss them with your bridal consultant. They usually have many years of experience, so will be able to help you with any worries you might have. Relax and stop shopping. Once you’ve made up your mind and said yes to the dress, stop looking at styles or new looks. Whatever your personal style, size or your budget is, start your shopping early and keep an open mind and you will find your dream gown soon. Helen Biddulph www.junepeonybridal.co.uk Genesis C169 Keeley AS005 Keeley AS005 Margot C162 Mikayla JPS165 Sunflower AL111 PLANNING SOS 49
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