Congratulations, bride-to-be! You’re officially entering one of the most exciting (and occasionally overwhelming) seasons of your life — wedding planning. While it’s full of joy, it’s also common to wonder… now what?

We’ve got you covered. Here’s your complete guide to wedding dress shopping — from first steps to saying “yes” to your #aislestyle.

STEP ONE: start your research

Just like every other aspect of wedding planning, research is key. Social media can be an amazing tool, but make sure your feed is curated to what you’re actually looking for.

Here are a few key things to consider when starting your dress search:

What is your bridal style?

Ask yourself:

What do I feel best in?
What would make me feel most like myself?
What makes me feel confident and comfortable?

Pro tip: My rule of thumb as a bridal stylist is simple — you should feel like yourself, just as a bride. No need to reinvent the wheel, or get something you’d never wear just because it’s your wedding day. It’s still you!

Which designers do you gravitate toward?

This doesn’t mean you have to shop only with those designers, but it helps your stylist know what catches your eye.

However if you do have a specific designer in mind, check if there are retailers in your area that carry them.

Pro tip: Visit the designer’s website and look for the “Retailers” or “Stockists” tab to find nearby shops.

What bridal boutiques match your vibe?

Avoid overbooking with every store in town. Instead, research one to three boutiques that align with your style and vision. Every bridal shop has its own personality — make sure it matches yours before booking.

step two: set your budget

This step is crucial for a successful and stress-free shopping experience. Miscommunication around budget is one of the top reasons appointments go sideways — so let’s avoid that.

Who’s paying?

Is it you? Amazing!
Parents, grandparents, or family members?
Are you splitting it with someone?

Have the conversation ahead of time and ensure everyone involved is aligned on the total number.

What’s the real number?

This is the final amount you’re comfortable spending — no going over.

Pro tip: Share this number directly with your stylist so they can keep you within budget while still pulling amazing options.

What’s included in your budget?

Just the dress?
Dress + alterations?
Dress + accessories?
Or everything?

Accessories like veils and jewelry can add up quickly, so include them in your total if needed.

What does “flexible” actually mean?

Many brides say, “I’m flexible” — but be specific. If your budget is $3,000, is $3,800 really okay? Or would that make you uncomfortable?

If not, tell your stylist: “I love that look, but that’s out of my range. What do you have that’s similar and within budget?”

Transparency creates a better shopping experience. Your stylist wants to help you — they just need accurate info to do it.

step three: pick your people

This is almost as important as setting a budget. The people you bring to your appointment can make or break your experience.

Keep it small

While it’s tempting to invite your whole crew, four to six guests is the sweet spot. Fewer opinions means less pressure and more clarity for you.

Pro tip: Most boutiques limit guest numbers to around six anyway, so make it easy on yourself!

Bring your cheerleaders

Bring the people who:

Know your style
Offer positive feedback
Will support your decision

If you’re worried someone (like Aunt Sally) might pressure you into a bedazzled ballgown when you want something sleek and modern, consider bringing her to your pick-up appointment instead.

step four: book your appointment(s)

Now it’s time to get those appointments on the calendar! As a four-year veteran bridal stylist, here’s my best advice:

Start early

We recommend shopping eight to twelve months before your wedding. This gives you time for:

Finding your dress
Having it made and delivered
Fittings and alterations

Pro tip: On a shorter timeline? Don’t panic. Many designers offer rush options, and most boutiques carry off-the-rack dresses.

Start small, not scattered

Book one to two boutiques that really align with your vision. Decision fatigue is real, and too many appointments can take the joy out of shopping. Start small — you can always book more if needed!

Go where you’re most excited

If there’s a boutique you’ve been dreaming about, start there. You might find your dress at the first appointment — it happens more often than you think!

Shop with intent

Like I said, finding your dress is way easier than you think, so you don’t want to be caught off guard. If you’re booking appointments, come ready to say “yes.” Bring your key people, know your budget, and be open to the moment.

step five: find your #aislestyle and say yes!

You’ve done the work: your research is done, your budget is set, your guests are ready to go, your appointments are booked.

Now it’s time to let your stylist take the lead and help you find your dream dress! Whether you cry, feel calm, or just know, that moment of clarity is real — when you know, you know.

We can’t wait to meet you!

We hope this wedding dress shopping guide made you feel empowered, excited, and confident about what comes next! So, what are you waiting for? Book that appointment! We’re here to help you find your dream dress — and your dream moment.

BOOK NOW!

See you there!

YOU’RE ENGAGED?! HERE’S A COMPLETE GUIDE TO WEDDING DRESS SHOPPING