5 Things You Should Know Before Your First Wedding Dress Appointment

You’re engaged! Congratulations! Now let’s get down to business. One of the first things you should do, after letting your family and friends know of course, is wedding dress shopping. We thought we would share some things that you should keep in mind before you head to your first bridal appointment.

Andrea Iyamah

We know that everyone always wants to accompany the bride to her appointment and play a part in which dress she chooses. However, a large group is sure to bring nothing but a lot of conflicting opinions to the appointment. Save yourself the headache of dealing with too many clashing voices by only inviting very essential people with you to the bridal salon. A small group of maybe your mom, sister and two best friends is less stressful than having your parents, 6 friends, your future mother-in-law and an aunt. Keep in mind that your whole bridal party does not need to be invited. You can always invite more people to the fittings after the dress has already been chosen.

Andrea Iyamah

2. Do Your Research

If there is a particular dress you are after, call the bridal salon ahead of time and make sure they even have the dress. Also, many people think that their bridal appointment can last all day long. Sorry to break it to you but most places only give you 1 - 1.5 hours for your initial appointment. This is why it's important to be focused when you arrive. If you've been tearing out pages from bridal magazines, try and limit yourself to only bringing 3-5 photos for inspiration. While you should remain open-minded to trying on different things, come to the appointment already having in mind what silhouette and color you want. Be very honest with your consultant so they can do their best in helping you find your dream dress!

 Andrea Iyamah

3. The Perfect Timing

If your wedding date is more than a year away, there is no rush for you to go wedding dress shopping. You should avoid going too early so you don't end up disliking the dress later on. Imagine having the dress sitting in your closet for a year! It'll begin to look outdated to you and you'll grow tired of it before you've even worn it. We advise you to start tentatively looking around and narrowing down your options 12 months before your wedding. Make the actual purchase with about 8 months to go. While you should not buy the dress too early, don't leave it till too late either! Alterations or customization can take up to 6 months alone. For custom made designer dresses, contact the atelier in case there is a waiting list.

4. Budget Over Everything

Yes, we know you want to look amazing in your wedding dress but remember that you'll only be wearing it for just a couple of hours and then never again. Do not spend more than you can afford and go into debt all in the name of wearing your 'dream' dress. Calculate what you are comfortable spending and stick to it. At the bridal salon, don't try on dresses outside of your budget. This would only make keeping to your budget harder. Don't think that just because you're not breaking the bank on a dress, that it won't be breathtaking. With the right bridal salon and an open mind, you are sure to fall in love with a dress that you can afford.

5. Have The Right Underwear 

Your consultant is going to be in the fitting room with you to help you get in and out of dresses. Make sure you're wearing underwear you'll be comfortable being seen in. Be sure to wear a strapless bra as well. If you have the shoes or any other accessories you'll be wearing on your big day, bring them with you so that you can see how they look with the dress.

Andrea Iyamah

We hope these tips help you prepare for your first wedding dress appointment. You're making an important decision but remember to enjoy the experience and have fun!

The dresses in the photos above are all custom dresses by Andrea Iyamah. Follow Andrea Iyamah Bridal on Instagram for more. Want to wear a custom Andrea Iyamah dress for your special day? Fill out this form.

Tell us, how did your first bridal appointment go?