Choosing Your Wedding Gown

For most women, finding the gown of their dreams is essential to make their storybook wedding come true.

Falling in love was easy for Brandy Beech, but finding the perfect wedding gown was a challenge. After going through a wide selection of gowns, she finally found the perfect fit. She says, "You try it on and you look at yourself in the mirror and it’s just, that’s it, that’s the one."

Jenneifer Jerke, bridal consultant for Brides by Demitrios in San Diego, says to use your own distinct style when choosing your gown. She says, "Choose something that really says yes, this is you. This is what everyone would expect you to be in."

Be sure to know the particulars of your wedding to simplify your search. Sharon Naylor, author of "1001 Ways to Save Money and Still have a Dazzling Wedding" says, "You’ll need to make sure that the formality of the gown works in tandem with the formality and style of your entire event."

Naylor says to allow yourself plenty of time to find the perfect gown. She says, "If you allow yourself 9 months to a year, you're in good shape. It’s that last minute rushing around and looking that can cost you a fortune."

In her book, Naylor offers additional tips for brides-to-be:

Try on 12-15 different gowns to make sure you know what styles suit you the best.
Check out www.bridaldiscounters.com to save you time and money.
Go to designer trunk shows offering gowns at 60-70% off normal prices.
Order your size according to the specific measurements of the manufacturer. You’ll pay less for fewer alterations.
Don’t order a gown before setting a date. The time of year may affect the style of gown you choose.
Check out department stores in the holiday formal wear sections during sales.
Comparison-shop and don’t be fooled by red tags.
Shop early in the day since you’ll have more energy.
Keep a notebook to keep records of stores’ policies on alterations, ordering time, refund rules and flexibility. Also include the sales receipts as a record of the date you ordered the dress, the specifics of the dress, size, salesperson and promised date of delivery.
During your fittings, wear the bra, slip and shoes you’ll wear on your wedding day.

Jerke says, “The trends for this year basically are comfortable elegance. The brides would like to be able to look their best, feel their best, but also more importantly get through the night.”

After finding the gown of her dreams, Brandy says, “So, finally I found the one I wanted and it was basically nothing like I imagined. As soon as you try on that dress, you know for sure.”

Related Links: www.sharonnaylor.net http://www.demetriosbride.com/