It’s remarkable how many times I hear brides say it was easier to find “The guy” than to find “The Dress.” That comment doesn’t really surprise me anymore, but since I started working at my store I have become well familiar with all the factors involved in finding the right dress for the big day. Obviously most girls don’t know what they are getting into when they start the hunt for their wedding gown. It is like beginning a journey into the unknown. The sizing chart is different, at least  6-8 different silhouettes to consider, countless types of fabrics, french or american bustle, haute couture or “just” couture and the list can go on!

Then, I remembered that just like finding prince charming, the quest to find the right wedding dress these days is not easy, especially with so many different options out there. Often times girls are unprepared to travel the bumpy road. I tell you, I see it everyday in the store: self image insecurities, freight of commitment to one particular gown, unrealistic expectations, unwillingness to try something new and these just to point out a few.

It is clear to me that brides need to have an idea of what to expect when shopping for their gown, a road map! So from a professional in the business of Bridal fashion to the Brides out there here goes:

In my opinion the first thing you need to know is that you are beautiful inside and out and the fact that another human being wants to spend the rest of their life with you should be a good indicator of that. The key to finding the right dress for you has to do with being sure of who you are and what you have to offer. Be aware that the wedding dress size chart is very different from the regular clothing one. So you can expect the wedding dress size number to be larger than what you’re used to hearing and you shouldn’t be intimidated by this!

Second, identify what kind of wedding you are having. It doesn’t matter if it is a low budget wedding. I am sure that every bride wants her wedding to have a certain feel, determine that early!    For example: if you having a garden wedding with a semi formal indoor reception this will help you determine the style of dress that will make you most comfortable throughout the entire event.

I have also had brides come in through the shop that have a difficult time committing to a gown. I understand because there are so many beautiful options out there. However, this might be a tricky situation to be in because there is a great potential of ending up with two or more dresses. This can really screw up a wedding budget. So my suggestion is know that all wedding dresses are beautiful and of coarse you are allowed to try on as many as you please but set some very clear goals and expectations to select your gown and stick to them . Do have your dress ordered at least 6 months prior to the wedding date. NOTE: Once you buy your dress stop looking, there is no point in that.

It is important that brides do a little research about the industry and vendors in their area. Things such as average costs for services and articles related to the wedding. Be savvy and ask questions when you don’t understand and most of all for alternatives, don’t settle for what vendors offer to you the first time. In this industry almost anything is customizable, however, be realistic about your expectations. Particularly in the Bridal Fashion industry know that silk gowns will always be more expensive than satin or chiffon. And like in any other aspect of fashion whatever is most in style will always have a higher price tag.

In the end it is all about keeping your options open and being clear about what your needs are, very much like when you were looking for prince charming! Then it is not such an unfamiliar path after all.