Let’s go shopping – bridal gown shopping!  But first, here are some tips to make the experience more enjoyable and fun.

1.  Before you hit the pavement and start driving from store to store, let your fingers do the walking and do some exploring on the computer or bridal magazines.  It’s a great way to see what’s out there, build up some knowledge of styles and terminology.  One of world’s top wedding websites, www.theknot.com  is a great place to start.

2.  Bridal gowns are special order items.  Therefore, it takes 3-6 months to receive a gown from the designer once the order is placed.  Ideally, start shopping for your gown about 1 year before your wedding date.  If your wedding is sooner, many designers offer rush services.  You many also purchase a gown directly from the boutique’s in-store collection.

3.  Once you’re ready to visit bridal salons, call first.  Most salons and boutiques request appointments.  If your schedule allows, try to go on a weekday versus weekends.  It tends to be less busy.

4.  Bring one or two trusted people with you.  This is not the time to bring your entire entourage.  As you start to try on dresses, it helps to have something with you who can help you filter out the styles that work or don’t. 

5.  Bring a pair of heels and a strapless bra, if possible.  Some bridal salons have loaners, some don’t.  Shoes are important, since a gown looks better when you’re wearing a heel.  You can also check with the salon to see if they provide loaners.  Here at Epiphany, we do have loaner heels for a bit of lift, but we don’t have loaner bras.

6.  Take pictures if the store allows.  Unfortunately, it’s been our experience that most salons do not allow pictures.  At Epiphany Boutique, we actually encourage picture taking.  It helps you remember what dresses you really like and see how they look on you.  This is especially true when you are trying on many gowns at different stores. 

7.  Check with the salon as to how long an appointment you have with them.  Many salons book an hour per bride.  This may or may not give you enough time to see as many gowns as you would like.  At Epiphany, we do not limit how long a bride has.  This is your big day and you should never feel rushed. 

8.  Try on as many gowns as you would like!  Some brides find the perfect gown in the first couple of dresses they see.  One of our brides at Epiphany Boutique told us she tried on over 100.  She just stopped counting at 100.  Again, the gown is one of the most important dresses that you will ever wear.  Don’t feel pressured into making a quick decision.

9.  Before purchasing your gown, get the details regarding shipping date, alterations and the cost, and how many fittings are included. Also, does the bridal salon service their brides and do the alterations in their salon?  Or do they send you to an outside alteration seamstress?    Here at Epiphany Boutique, all alterations and a custom veil are included with every bridal gown purchase.  That way, you’ll never be shocked with additional fitting expenses.  We stand behind every gown our brides select and finalize all details in our boutique!

10.  Enjoy the journey!  Shopping for your bridal gown can and should be a fun and sweet experience.

Do you have any additional questions?  Please feel free to call Epiphany at 831-626-7700 or email us anytime at info@epiphany-boutique.com.

Happy Shopping!