Bridal Gown Shopping...Be Aware

Now that you are engaged, one of your most important and most enjoyable decisions is the selection of your bridal gown. There are a few very important reasons for considering a full-service bridal salon, rather than a discount bridal service when you begin your shopping.

First and foremost, the full-service salon works directly with the manufacturer of the gowns, and does not have to order the gowns through any second or third party. This guarantees you that the gown you order is the brand you ordered and not a "look alike" or copy gown.

A full-service salon can also guarantee that your gown will arrive in ample time for any alterations that may be needed. And most salons have a professional, experienced seamstress available for those expert alterations or design changes you may desire.

Your gown will also need to be steamed and pressed, before your portrait, and unless you have a large area in which to hang the gown, again before the wedding - a service most salons offer to their brides.

You may say that you are trying to find the best buy on a gown to save money. The small percentage of money that may be saved by ordering a dress from a store that doesn't carry the gowns, or from an internet service, could cost the bride in later expenditures for the aforementioned necessary services. The merchandise may not be what was expected, or worst of all, arrive late from a discounter that orders gowns by designers they do not stock. Travel time involved when driving long distances to find "the best price" is also a costly endeavor.

If you are looking for a great price, be aware that most of the area bridal shops offer sales on selected gowns that are current styles and terrific savings. There are also area discount bridal stores that specialize in outstanding buys on in-stock gowns from last season's designs and on discontinued gowns in current styles. When you shop locally, you can ask the questions, and see and try on your selections. Selecting from a local bridal store means less worry for you, the bride. Visit the websites of our bridal stores listed under Bridal Gowns in the Resources Directory.

Article with information from "Where Is My Dress?"..Bride's Magazine. Photo by Dara Blakely.