8 Tips to Find Your Perfect Wedding Dress

Your wedding day is one of the most special days of your life, and choosing the perfect wedding dress is an essential part of making your day unforgettable. But where do you start? From the style to the budget, there are several factors to consider. In today’s blog, I’ll share my top eight tips to help you on your wedding dress journey!

Start Early

Your dress or outfit is a vital part of the planning process so I always recommend starting early! Starting early will give you enough time to browse through various styles, designers, and shops to find the perfect one that was made for you. Ideally, you should start looking for your dress at least 9 to 12 months before your wedding day. This way, you have enough time to order, make any necessary alterations, and make sure it fits perfectly.

Set a Budget

The cost of a wedding dress can vary from a couple hundred to a few thousand dollars. Before you start shopping it’s important to consider your budget. Your budget will determine the type of dress you can afford and the designers you can work with. It will also help the wonderful sales associates at the store you’re browsing to bring you options that fit your budget. Now, remember, that a beautiful dress doesn’t have to cost a fortune. There are so many affordable options available that are just as stunning.

Research Styles

There are several wedding dress styles to choose from, including ball gowns, A-line, mermaid, sheath, and more. Each style has its unique features and fits different body types. It’s important to do some research on the styles that interest you and see how they look on your body type. This will help you narrow down your choices and find a dress that flatters your body shape. I always recommend starting on Pinterest to give you an idea of the type of dress you’re looking for! It can be helpful to save these “inspiration” photos to bring with you when you start shopping.

Consider the Venue

Your wedding venue can influence the style of the dress you choose. For example, if you’re having an outdoor wedding, you may want to consider a lightweight dress that won’t weigh you down. On the other hand, if you’re having a formal wedding in a ballroom, a full-length ball gown may be more appropriate. 

Shop with an Open Mind

While it’s important to have an idea of the style of dress you want, it’s also essential to keep an open mind when shopping. You may find that the dress you thought you wanted doesn’t look as good as you thought it would, or that a dress you could never picture yourself in looks stunning and hugs your body in all of the right places. This is exactly what happened to me when I was wedding dress shopping! Try on different styles and designs to see what works for you. You may be surprised at how a dress you never considered could be the one.

Bring a Trusted Friend(s) and/or Family Member(s)

Shopping for a wedding dress can be overwhelming, and it’s always helpful to have a trusted friend or family member with you. They can offer a second opinion and provide support when making a decision. But remember, ultimately this is your decision. It’s great to have input but choose the dress that’s right for you! 

Consider Customization

When you start to try on dresses, you might not love all of the features or you may feel like something’s missing. Customization is usually an option so talk to the sales associate working with you! Many dresses allow you to add sleeves, customize the length of the train, and more!

Pay Attention to the Fabric

The fabric of a dress can significantly impact its look and feel. It’s important to choose a fabric that’s comfortable and fits the occasion. For example, if you’re having an outdoor wedding, you may want to consider a lightweight fabric that breathes well. On the other hand, if you’re having a winter wedding, a heavier fabric may be more appropriate. It’s important to choose a fabric that not only looks good but feels good too!

Courtney’s Recommendations:

There are plenty of wedding dress shops in Edmonton, each with its own unique style and selection. I thought I’d share a few shops with great reviews to get you started!

Delica Bridal

I purchased my wedding dress from Delica Bridal and the experience was great! They were so easy to work with, made it fun, and I felt amazing in the dress I chose (with the help of their wonderful team). The shop is located in the south end of Edmonton and they offer a wide range of designer dresses with a vast price range as well. I recommend visiting Delica Bridal when you start your wedding dress journey.

Novelle Bridal Shop

Novelle Bridal Shop is located in the heart of downtown Edmonton and is known for its exceptional customer service and designer dresses. The shop has a variety of wedding dresses from designers such as Hayley Paige, Lazaro, and Watters. The shop’s consultants will work closely with you to understand your vision and help you find a dress that fits your style and budget. This is a great shop to start at due to its wide variety of styles ranging from classic, modern, and bohemian.

Pure Bridal

Pure Bridal is a family-owned bridal boutique that has been in business for over a decade. The shop has a beautiful selection of wedding dresses from designers such as Maggie Sottero, Rebecca Ingram, and Mori Lee. Pure Bridal also offers an exclusive collection of plus-size wedding dresses for curvier brides. 

Trust your instincts and consider alterations to ensure the perfect fit. With these tips and the shops mentioned above, you’re sure to find the perfect wedding dress for your special day.