SHOPPING FOR YOUR WEDDING GOWN

So, you are ready to hit the stores in search of your dream dress. Before you grab your purse here are some tips on buying your gown.

Consider your wedding style. As with everything related to your wedding, we must start with the style. Are you having a formal evening wedding or an outdoor affair? Your dress should reflect or at least mesh with - your wedding style. That said you're the bride, which means you can stretch the rules just a bit when it comes to your ensemble.

Bring along one or two people whose opinions you trust. If you bring too many people, it can be very confusing as everyone has different opinions on what they like. Trust your instincts and you'll know exactly when you've found the dress.

When you go shopping for your dress - wear nylons and shoes and a strapless bra or bustier - this will make you more comfortable. Also fix your hair so you are better able to try on headpieces and veils.

Flip through magazines to get an idea of what styles are available. When you go to a bridal salon try to communicate as much as possible with the salesperson so that they can present you with appropriate styles. Be sure to try on as many different styles as you can. A wedding gown is unlike any other dress and sometimes you just can't tell which style is going to look best on you.

Keep an open mind. It is important to try on at least one dress that isn't like anything you ever thought you'd wear on your wedding day. It's amazing how many brides walk in thinking they want to wear something simple and straight and walk out looking like Cinderella or vice versa. In short, the dream dress you decide on may surprise you, and you won't have the chance to discover it if you swear off trying on styles you think aren't you.

Don't be alarmed, offended or disappointed when your salesperson makes you try on a size or two larger than you wear in ready-to-wear clothes. Bridal gowns can run small, and are ordered according to our manufactures' size charts. Also, the dresses in the store are not meant to fit you exactly -- they're just so you can get an idea of how you look.

Wedding Gowns, can take from three to four months to order. Give yourself plenty of time for your gown to arrive and for alterations.

Most importantly have fun. Buying a gown for you're wedding should be an exciting experience.