Finding the Perfect Wedding Gown

When planning your nuptials, few things are more exciting than shopping for your wedding gown. But at the same time, the process can be overwhelming. So many options, opinions, and bridal shops! Somewhere out there, the perfect gown awaits. How can you go down the aisle in grand style? Here's a few suggestions.

Everything old is new again...perhaps there's an antique gown, worn by your grandmother, mother, or favorite aunt that can be restored. Fortunately, there are new technologies that can remove discoloration from these precious family heirlooms and return them to their original color.

Whether you know what you want or are still deciding, you'll need the help of a reputable, professional salesperson. Unlike your close friends or relatives, the salesperson is objective. She is seeing you for the first time and has no preconceived ideas about what you might like or dislike. Her only purpose is to assist in finding a dress you love, a dress in which you look your absolute best. A professional will help you find a gown that's flattering to your body shape and size. Keep in mind, objectivity is not criticism. Even the most gorgeous-looking models routinely have professional help.

Most experts say begin shopping for your gown at least five months prior to the wedding date. Be sure to shop at several different stores and spread the shopping over several weeks, or even months. If you attempt to find the perfect dress in just one day, you'll exhaust yourself and may regret your choice later.

Wear make-up and bring shoes of a heel height similar to what you plan to wear at the wedding. If possible, style your hair as you plan to wear it that day. Also, bring appropriate undergarments such as a strapless bra, if you plan on an off-the-shoulder style or strapless dress.

Invite one person along who knows your tastes and can give a reliable, HONEST second opinion, an opinion you trust. Having more than one person along can mean even more opinions and that can be confusing.