Your best friend is your bridal boutique

You read about them in the newspapers and hear about them in the local news: Bridal couples who have been left in the lurch with their plans – and especially the bridal gown – when things have gone awry. Sometimes it’s because the bride purchased her gown online. When it arrived it didn’t fit. Or it wasn’t the dress she ordered. And she finds that she has no redress. Sometimes, she has been working with a fly-by-night ‘expert’ who is new to the business and suddenly goes bankrupt, with the down payment for the dress going down the drain.

Golden rule #1

NEVER buy a dress that is smaller than your normal size because you intend to lose weight.

Golden rule #2

It is easier to have a gown made SMALLER, but often impossible to find a way to make it larger.

Experience counts

Relying on an established boutique when you go gown shopping will pay off. You may think you are certain of the style you want, but an experienced eye often can check you out and suggest an alternative that you suddenly realize is perfect!

Rule Number 1

Don’t be dismissive of an expert’s suggestions. You won’t get the feel of the gown unless you can closely approximate the look you will have on your wedding day.

Rule Number 2

Wear shoes with the correct heel height. Wear your hair approximately the way you will wear it on your wedding day. The gown is just the beginning. Get advice about all the accessories you need to complete the ensemble.

Rule Number 3

Try on a variety of veils with your gown. And check out suitable undergarments. Do you need a strapless bra? Jewellery must be chosen with care. If you want strong chandelier earrings, you likely should not wear a necklace.

Rule Number 4

Try on a variety of jewellery to get a better understanding of what works best with the style of the gown.