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When to Start Dress Shopping: Wedding Dress Timeline for Brides-to-Be!

Hello lovely brides-to-be!

Wedding Dress Shopping near me

Congratulations on your engagement! 🎉 Now that the ring is on your finger and the excitement is buzzing, it's time to dive into the wonderful world of wedding planning. One of the most thrilling parts? Dress shopping, of course! But when should you start shopping for that perfect gown? Let's dive in!


Why Start Early?

Planning a wedding can be stressful, but starting your dress shopping early can relieve some of that pressure. We recommend starting your search 8-12 months before your wedding day. Here’s why:

  1. Time for Customization: If you fall in love with a gown that requires custom adjustments or special orders, you'll have plenty of time for alterations.

  2. Avoiding Rush Fees: Bridal shops often charge extra for rush orders. Shopping early can save you those additional costs.

  3. Peace of Mind: Knowing your dress is sorted allows you to focus on other important details of your big day.

  4. Seasonal Collections: Starting early means you get first dibs on the latest collections and trends.


What If You’re on a Tighter Timeline?

Don’t worry if your wedding is just around the corner! At Bella Veil Bridal, we can accommodate shorter timelines with our fabulous off-the-rack gowns. These dresses are ready to go and just as stunning as custom-ordered ones. So even if you have just a few weeks or months, we’ve got you covered.


The Dress Shopping Timeline

  • 12 Months Out: Start gathering inspiration. Think Pinterest boards, bridal magazines, and following bridal boutiques on Instagram. It’s all about finding what styles you love, and the shops that can best serve you.

  • 10-8 Months Out: Schedule appointments at bridal shops. This is the fun part! Bring your nearest and dearest, and try on different styles to see what suits you best. Be open-minded—you might be surprised by what you fall in love with! Place your order. Once you’ve found "the one," it’s time to get it ordered. This gives you ample time for any necessary alterations.

  • 6-4 Months Out: Your dress should have arrived by now, and your dress try on and pickup will ensure it starts fitting like a glove. Make your alterations appointment- these specialists are the true magicians when it comes to wedding dresses. 

  • 3-2 Months Out: Second fitting with your seamstress. By now, your dress should be close to perfect. This fitting will address any final tweaks.

  • 1 Month Out: Final fitting and pick up. Make sure everything is flawless and that you feel amazing in your dress. It’s almost time to walk down the aisle!

wedding dress shopping

A Few Fun Tips for Dress Shopping

  • Bring Supportive Friends or Family: Choose people who will be honest but supportive. They should understand your style and vision.

  • Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. You’ll be changing in and out of dresses, and comfort is key.

  • Trust Your Instincts: When you know, you know. If a dress makes you feel beautiful and confident, it’s probably the one.


Remember, this is your moment to shine. Enjoy the process, have fun, and let Bella Veil Bridal help you find the dress of your dreams. Happy shopping!



With love, Bella Veil Bridal ✨


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