Page 13 - HDG1173 - CWD Fall 2015

Wedding Wise GOWN SHOPPING MADE EASY

A wedding gown is probably the most meaningful and expensive piece
of clothing you will ever buy.

Here are some tips to make the process easy and enjoyable:

Do your homework. Take the time to check out bridal websites and magazines.
Take notes and bookmark the styles that appeal to you. Ask friends for bridal-store
recommendations, and get detailed information about their experiences. Obtain
information about the bridal stores from the Better Business Bureau. You want to
visit the stores that have good reputations for service and that can provide you with
stress-free experiences.

Make an appointment. Some bridal shops welcome walk-ins, but schedule an
appointment, if possible, to ensure better attention. Bridal shops are very busy on the
weekends, and if you don’t have an appointment, they may only allow you to browse.
Weekday appointments are ideal if you need more time trying on dresses and talking
with your bridal consultant.

Shopping crew. Shopping for your gown can be overwhelming. Try to bring no
more than two or three guests shopping with you since too many opinions can be
confusing. Allow only the people who will have your best interest at heart. After
purchasing your gown, you are welcome to bring your whole bridal party to the
boutique to show off your gown.

Shop early. Bridal gowns usually take four to six months to order. Make sure you
start your search early so that your dress can be ordered and altered in plenty of time
before the big day. Shopping anywhere from nine to 12 months ahead of your wedding
will allow you plenty of time to order your gown and to have it fitted by a seamstress.

Know your budget. Be prepared to discuss your wedding-gown budget with your
bridal consultant. This will help her find the perfect dress in your price range.

Take notes. Once you’ve picked out the dress, or even a few dresses, be sure to get
all of the information you can about the dress. If the store allows, take pictures of
yourself in your favorite dresses.

Get fitted. Once you’ve decided on a dress, a bridal consultant will take your
measurements to determine which size to order. Keep in mind that bridal gowns are
sized much smaller and fluctuate from one designer to another. Also, it’s unlikely
that your measurements will be an exact match with the designer’s size chart. The
goal is to match as closely as possible and then to make the necessary alterations.

Custom order. Each designer offers a custom hem, which is an additional charge.
This allows the consultant to order the dress according to your height. Standard
bridal gowns are designed for brides that are 5’7’’ and wearing heels, so any bride
shorter than that should expect to order a custom hem.

Order with care. Most bridal shops require a non-refundable fifty-percent deposit
per gown. Pressing and steaming are usually included in the price of the gown;
however, alterations are not. The cost will vary depending on the extent of the
alterations, so try to maintain a steady weight after ordering the gown. Most gowns
will need a bustle, as well as minor adjustments.

Read the fine print. Many stores will require you to sign a contract. Make
certain that you understand all of the agreements and terms before signing. Have the
consultant put everything in writing, and make sure to obtain a copy before leaving.

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