Holy Guacamole you just got engaged!!! You’ve celebrated and booked your venue and now it’s time to find your dream dress (it’s the best part). But what do you need to do to prepare for wedding dress shopping? Don’t be afraid that you aren’t an expert at this whole bride thing (it’s probably your first time!). We will make sure your appointment is everything you imagine it will be and more, but here are a few pointers to get you started and make this process fun and easy.
1. Focus on a vibe
The inspo and resources available to brides today is infinite. From Pinterest to blogs and YouTube videos you can basically plan your entire wedding in the palm of your hand. This is a huge advantage to getting to see what’s out there before you actually go out shopping. I say, use these resources to their fullest extent, but focus on an overall vibe, look, or feeling rather than specific dresses, colors, or photos. Not every dress you see online is attainable for the average bride (or even real for that matter). Just use them as ideas and inspiration and be open to the gorgeous options available to you. What's most important at the end of the day is that you capture the vibe & feeling that's most important to you.
2. Bring whoever the heck you want
Your mom might tell you just to bring her to your appointment. Your friends will all ask to come. Pretty much every bridal professional will tell you to keep your group size super small. I say, this is your experience and you should bring whoever the heck you want! If you have a huge family and a group of supportive friends and you can’t imagine saying yes without them, then you go girl! If you need space to think for yourself and only want one or two guests, you go girl! As long as you feel fully supported and that you have whoever you need with you to have the best experience, I think you are on the right track. Just make sure to call ahead and confirm that the store can comfortably accommodate your group. If not, ask about private or after hours appointments. You will likely have to pay for these, but having your crew by your side might just be worth it!
3. Wear something you are comfortable being VERY close to your Stylist in
This is one of the number one questions we get from brides before their appointments. I’m just going to be real with you. You are going to be very close with your consultant very fast. Trying on wedding dresses is a two person job for sure, and you are going to need a trained professional with you every step of the way! Wear whatever undergarments will make you the most comfortable getting in and out of dresses with the help of your consultant. Many brides wear a strapless bra or nipple covers, but many also don’t wear a bra at all. Either way is fine with us. YOU MUST wear some type of underwear. Whether it’s Shapewear or a nude thong is up to you!
4. Schedule your appointment at the right time
All appointment times are not created equal. While you will still receive the same level of service and same length appointment no matter when you visit, the vibe of the store around you can be vastly different on different days and times. At Miss Ruby, our weekends are BUSY. This means lots of energy, lots of stylists, and lots of brides. It can be so fun when different groups are interacting and cheering together when a bride says yes! Weekdays on the other hand are usually a little quieter and more relaxed. You will likely have more space and more privacy and the boutique will just be quieter in general. There is no “better” option here, it just depends on what sounds more like your style.
Hit us up if you have more questions prior to wedding dress shopping. We are here for you every step of the way and our goal is to give you the most exceptional and comfortable experience. Just let us know when you are ready to say yes to the dress, because we can't wait!
