The first time I decided to go and try on wedding dresses I wasnt even technically engaged.
My boyfriend had asked my father for his blessing, I knew he had the ring, and we even had a tentative date, so I figured it wasnt that big of a deal.
Also I was going back to school and probably wouldnt have the chance to look at dresses with my mom, so I wanted to take advantage of the opportunity.
This was my very first time ever shopping for this type of dress, and I was as excited and nervous as a professional football player before a big game.
I had my team with me, and we were ready to go.
However that first experience definitely did not go as planned, but I did learn some very important things that would have been good to know beforehand.
So here are some of my takeaways, and things that eventually led me to find my dream dress; and hopefully it will help you find yours.
1. Come well rested, groomed and fed
Finding the perfect dress takes a lot of time and energy.
For most people it involves trying on multiple heavy, but lovely giant gowns.
Looking your best and feeling your best will definitely help with the overall experience, and make you feel as gorgeous as you should in your beautiful gown.
2. Do your research, but have an open mind
I was definitely one of those brides who knew EXACTLY what I wanted my dress to be like, and I let the saleswoman know.
At the same time, when I tried on what I thought I wanted, I realized it might now work with my height and body shape.
So definitely know what you like, but also be open to try new things that might surprise you.
3. You might get frustrated
Because I had an idea of what I wanted, I got pretty frustrated when I realized that I might have to change that idea.
Also when the people you bring are giving you their thoughts and ideas, it might become frustrating as well.
But take a deep breath, understand that you can always come back another day, and just have fun with it.
4. Take your time
Most bridal places will let you make appointments lasting an hour or even longer, so dont feel rushed in finding a dress.
Finding your dream dress can take time and effort, and it is time and effort that will be well worth it on that special day.
If you dont find a dress that you are totally in love with that first time you go dress shopping, its totally ok. Go back as many times as you want, go to different shops, and do some more research.
5. Compromise, but also dont give up on your vision
Like I said before, I had an exact vision of what I wanted my dress to look like, and I wasnt willing to give up on it completely.
The good news was that although it took more time and a lot of looking, I was able to find something that fit my dream as well as having it look and feel fabulous on me.
So although your dream dress might have to be tweaked slightly, dont give up on what you want completely.
6. Dont be afraid to look online
The online world of wedding dresses is getting incredibly larger and more beautiful, so dont be afraid to look online for dress options.
I would definitely recommend going and trying on dresses in real life as well, just to see what fits and what you like. But I have had many friends who have successfully ordered gorgeous dresses online, and at super great prices.
7. Your mom might not be there
I know every girl has the dream of having their mother there when they finally find the dress, but honestly because of work, distance, or school there might be a chance shes not there. But dont let that hold you back!
Because of technology your mom can always be there in spirit, and you will still be able to find the perfect wedding dress.
As I found, finding the perfect wedding dress can be quite a quest, but one that is worth the struggle. When you see the face of the man you love light up at the sight of seeing how amazing you look, you will know every second was worth it.
My boyfriend had asked my father for his blessing, I knew he had the ring, and we even had a tentative date, so I figured it wasnt that big of a deal.
Also I was going back to school and probably wouldnt have the chance to look at dresses with my mom, so I wanted to take advantage of the opportunity.
This was my very first time ever shopping for this type of dress, and I was as excited and nervous as a professional football player before a big game.
I had my team with me, and we were ready to go.
However that first experience definitely did not go as planned, but I did learn some very important things that would have been good to know beforehand.
So here are some of my takeaways, and things that eventually led me to find my dream dress; and hopefully it will help you find yours.
1. Come well rested, groomed and fed
Finding the perfect dress takes a lot of time and energy.
For most people it involves trying on multiple heavy, but lovely giant gowns.
Looking your best and feeling your best will definitely help with the overall experience, and make you feel as gorgeous as you should in your beautiful gown.
2. Do your research, but have an open mind
I was definitely one of those brides who knew EXACTLY what I wanted my dress to be like, and I let the saleswoman know.
At the same time, when I tried on what I thought I wanted, I realized it might now work with my height and body shape.
So definitely know what you like, but also be open to try new things that might surprise you.
3. You might get frustrated
Because I had an idea of what I wanted, I got pretty frustrated when I realized that I might have to change that idea.
Also when the people you bring are giving you their thoughts and ideas, it might become frustrating as well.
But take a deep breath, understand that you can always come back another day, and just have fun with it.
4. Take your time
Most bridal places will let you make appointments lasting an hour or even longer, so dont feel rushed in finding a dress.
Finding your dream dress can take time and effort, and it is time and effort that will be well worth it on that special day.
If you dont find a dress that you are totally in love with that first time you go dress shopping, its totally ok. Go back as many times as you want, go to different shops, and do some more research.
5. Compromise, but also dont give up on your vision
Like I said before, I had an exact vision of what I wanted my dress to look like, and I wasnt willing to give up on it completely.
The good news was that although it took more time and a lot of looking, I was able to find something that fit my dream as well as having it look and feel fabulous on me.
So although your dream dress might have to be tweaked slightly, dont give up on what you want completely.
6. Dont be afraid to look online
The online world of wedding dresses is getting incredibly larger and more beautiful, so dont be afraid to look online for dress options.
I would definitely recommend going and trying on dresses in real life as well, just to see what fits and what you like. But I have had many friends who have successfully ordered gorgeous dresses online, and at super great prices.
7. Your mom might not be there
I know every girl has the dream of having their mother there when they finally find the dress, but honestly because of work, distance, or school there might be a chance shes not there. But dont let that hold you back!
Because of technology your mom can always be there in spirit, and you will still be able to find the perfect wedding dress.
As I found, finding the perfect wedding dress can be quite a quest, but one that is worth the struggle. When you see the face of the man you love light up at the sight of seeing how amazing you look, you will know every second was worth it.
