WHEN SHOULD YOU START SHOPPING FOR YOUR WEDDING DRESS?
You’ve recently become engaged - congratulations! Now, when should you start dress shopping? Here is a little checklist of tips we put together to help you find out when the best time to start looking for your dream dress! 1. CHOOSE YOUR WEDDING DATE
Many brides have a specific date in mind, like an anniversary or significant date to the couple. Setting a wedding date is important to dress shopping because it allows you know how much lead time you have when it comes to ordering a dress. Most designer’s dresses are made-to-order, and can take an average of 3-6 months to arrive after purchasing/placing your order.
2. FIND YOUR VENUE
In the wedding industry, finding your venue and wedding dress are two of the most important parts of planning. Once you secure your wedding venue, you have a set date and now it may be time to go dress shopping.
3. DRESS SHOPPING
Typically, we recommend a bride begin her bridal shopping 10-12 months before the wedding date. As we mentioned briefly, all designer’s dresses are made to order and can take anywhere from 5-9 months to arrive after you “Say Yes!”. Alterations for your gown will take place 3-4 months before your wedding, with an additional month needed if custom work is required.
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES
Something to keep in mind - not everyone will have the amount of time we usually recommend. Many, but not all, designers will offer rushes on their gowns for an additional fee. This is generally for brides that have a closer wear date and need a dress a lot sooner. At Olive & Ivory we have a selection of gowns that are discontinued and able to be purchased off the rack and go home with you that day! If you are a special circumstance bride or feel like off the rack would be a better option for you, give us a call!
We hope this gives you a better idea of when you should start your bridal dress shopping journey. Happy shopping, brides!