How to start shopping
Congratulations! You have the diamond and wedding plans are in full swing!
But, maybe like a lot of us you’re not sure where to start with ‘THE’ dress!
We have one shot at it and so much is at stake here. The media, television etc tell us it has to be perfect and magical. This is quite possibly the most expensive clothing purchase you will ever make. All eyes are going to be on you and you’ll want to look and feel, the best you ever have. But where do you start? It’s enough to make the most of us feel at least a little anxious.
So, if you want an enjoyable (stress free) experience worthy of that ‘yes’ moment keep reading!
As with any big purchase in life, to get the best results and feel satisfied with your purchase it is crucial to do your research first.
You would not set out to buy a house or car without knowing your budget and narrowing down a few requirements. Can you even imagine the search results on right move or auto trader without limiting a single factor?! It would be completely overwhelmingly and a sole destroying search. It is so much easier and far more enjoyable to narrow this search down and view only what fits your individual requirements (at least as a starting point).
You should apply this exact same theory to shopping for your dress!
Even if you don’t know the exact style you are looking for, there will definitely be factors you can narrow down.
A great starting point is browsing online or tools like Pinterest, Instagram etc. Or if you prefer, try bridal magazines. This will help you get a feel for the sort of gowns you visually like. Even if you’re not sure on what shape will best suit you, this will give you an idea of what you’re drawn to. Is it boho vibes, classic, edgy, modern, princess that is catching your eye? Are you drawn towards a particular silhouette (shape of dress) or type of detail (lace, beading, plain etc)? Or, is there a particular designer that keeps jumping out to you?
Any wedding dress shop worth their weight will be keen to see your ideas. So I highly recommend creating screen shots, Pinterest boards or scrap books of the overall ‘vibe’ of your dream day.
Budget - I know, this is not a fun thing to be talking about but I truly believe it is worth mentioning. In my experience, most people have a maximum budget as well as a price point they feel most comfortable at (ie I would spend up to £3k max but I feel more comfortable at £2k).
If you are not paying for the dress yourself, make sure you have had this conversation with the people you need to before attending any bridal shop appointments. Fiancé, parents, whoever is paying, even if it is yourself, it is crucial to know where you stand.
Trust me it is not worth trying on dresses outside of your budget to ‘get ideas’. Unless you are willing and able to stretch your budget this will only end in tears. (Referring back to my terrible car analogy it can be like test driving a Ford followed by a Ferrari and wondering why you prefer the latter. You may have been fully satisfied with the ford if you’d stopped there).
What are you hoping for from a retailer? Each bride will have different hopes and expectations for their dress buying experience.
At Perla Nova we have created a relaxed, modern studio environment reserved exclusively for each brides use. Your own personal edit (selection of dresses chosen just for you), on site parking, bubbles to celebrate and personal stylist (me) come as standard (free of charge). I personally see each of my brides from the first step through the door until the first step down the aisle and beyond. I have worked as a bridal stylist for two decades and have seamstress experience. I created Perla Nova to provide an unrivalled experience of ‘personal shopping meets bridal’ with customisable gowns and optimal fit to ensure your gown is totally your own. I won’t throw out wild claims of having something for everyone as our collection has been chosen with the modern bride in mind.
Sales pitch over I promise 😂 but I guarantee we are worth considering if this sounds good to you.
The more prep work you do the more likely you are going to end up in the best boutiques and shops for you.
None of this has to be set in stone and it’s great to have an open mind. I totally understand that ideas and what works in reality can change as you’re trying gowns on. But, you will need a starting point or the search is just too overwhelming.