By Sharon Townsend
Perhaps you’ve dreamt of the perfect gown for that glide down the aisle since you were a little girl. Or maybe it’s a recent phenomenon now that there’s a rock residing on your left hand. Whatever the case may be, these visions are light and lovely. Regardless of your style, envisioning your dream wedding dress brings out your best self.
For that reason, you may have some pretty high standards when arriving to the appointment. No doubt you’ve formed a more concrete image of the gown. Maybe you want sleeves, or you’re set on an illusion back. Even a specific style might be a must-have for some. Unfortunately, you may get into that “perfect” gown and get a chiller instead of chills: the perfect gown doesn’t look perfect.
“Who can get me out of this nightmare? Maybe it’s my entourage of 12 bridesmaids?” The reality is, it’s best to leave them home.
Pro tip: only bring two to three of your closest allies to the appointment.
A good bridal stylist knows the boutique’s gowns and how they fit. Share your vision with the stylist, and they can point you in the right direction keeping style, body type, and budget in mind. Keep an open mind. Try on that gown you passed on twice – if the stylist pulled it, it just might pleasantly surprise you. Then there’s that other terrifying topic: “What if the gown of my dreams has a price tag that makes me wake in a cold sweat?” Again, open and honest communication with the stylist is key. Be realistic about the budget.
Pro tip: remember to include alterations in the calculations.
You may really want to try that gown from your lock screen, but if it’s not in budget you’ll feel like screaming when you can’t have it. Show the stylist the gown or explain the features you like, and they can help find similar styles that fit the budget.
So don’t let that sea of white in a bridal boutique make you feel like you’re drowning. Don’t be afraid to try silhouettes and styles not previously considered, and make use of the stylist’s knowledge. You’re looking for a flattering fit and an expression of your style, not trying to make a specific gown work because it’s what you thought you wanted. Often a dream has an unexpected, although beautiful, ending.
Sharon Townsend is the Owner/Manager of Tiffanys Bridal, a Richmond tradition since 1969. She purchased her own gown from Tiffanys, and after 20 years of freelance wedding planning, she made the boutique her own in 2008. Now she dedicates her time to ensuring all brides remember finding their gown as fondly as she does. To learn more visit tiffanysbridal.com.