Finding your wedding dress is like no other shopping experience. And it's one most of us will only do once! So even if you have a vision of what you want, make sure to leave yourself enough time to find it.
Searching
Browsing the web is a hassle-free starting point, but it's also wise to check out some salons too in order to get an overview of what's available. Once you've seen the collections and narrowed down your choice a
little, take along a trusted friend or relative to help make the final
selection.
Be open-minded
Many high street shops (such as Monsoon, M&S, Next, Debenhams and Frasers) sell bridal wear, and this is a good option if your budget is very limited. However, for the full bridal experience and the widest choice of styles, you can't beat the salons. You may have always envisaged yourself in a strapless dress but find that a halterneck is more flattering for your shape. Likewise with colour, white could be draining but a warm ivory may suit your complexion; basically, you can't be certain until you try a few dresses on.
Buying
Some bridal boutiques operate on an appointment-only basis and guarantee a one-to-one service; others welcome browsers and experienced staff are on hand should you need assistance. It's worthwhile travelling to splaces off the beaten track; very often they stock individual, beautiful dresses and have time to be more attentive. Most salons require a deposit of 20-50%– each salon has its own policy on credit arrangements and many now have credit payment facilities.
The arrival
A dress can take up to 16 weeks to be made and delivered, so don't leave it until the last minute if you can help it. Once the dress has arrived, you will be contacted and another fitting is made to ensure it fits. Most salons provide in-house alterations and you may need two or three additional fittings to get these done.
