When should I start looking for my wedding dress?

The day, the venue for the wedding and reception, a theme, and budget has been selected. Now it should be time to select a wedding gown. One that will express the joy of the occasion, a tangible reminder of the love you both will pledge.

The point to begin planning for the dress is about a year before the nuptials. Suggestions from family and friends should be sought. Keep in mind the theme you have chosen and the color scheme. I bought a bunch of bridal magazines to get ideas. I then cut out pictures of the gowns I loved and saved them.

After a month of seeking ideas, set up appointments at a few bridal salons. Allow some time at each shop, about an hour and a half. There are so many styles and designs available, you should try on a lot of gowns. Even the ugly ones; they may look beautiful on. Know what feels comfortable. Bring along some of your bridesmaids. They will help by advising you on what designs look the best, and what do not. This will help to narrow the search to the styles that are the most flattering.

Don't make a rash decision. I shopped for about four weeks before I found the perfect dress...on sale, no less. But when you feel relaxed and confident in your choice, do it. Have a friend with you to confirm your good judgment. The shop will require a deposit, usually 50% of the price of the gown..

Most bridal shops expect that a specially made gown will take about four months to come in. Then there will be alterations, which could take another two months at least.

In fact, three fittings were required to make me the beautiful bride I was. It is wise to start your search for the perfect gown about 10 months earlier. I was advised that if I had delayed my decision, a rush order would have cost an additional $350. That was stress and money no bride can afford.