Hey, lovely brides-to-be! Lauren here from Olive & Eden Weddings. If there’s one moment in wedding planning that often feels like the official start of it all, it’s the search for THE dress. It’s more than just fabric and thread; it’s the gown you’ll make some of your most cherished memories in.
But let’s be real – with endless options on Pinterest and a dozen opinions from loved ones, the search can also feel a tad overwhelming. That’s why, as your Austin wedding planners, we want to share some tried-and-true tips to help you navigate the process with joy, confidence, and a focus on what truly matters: finding a dress that makes you feel like the incredible bride you are!
Our Top 8 Tips for Your Wedding Dress Hunt
1. Do a Little Pre-Search Homework
Before you even step into a boutique, spend some time scrolling! Pinterest, bridal magazines, and Instagram are your best friends here. Get a feel for silhouettes (A-line, mermaid, ballgown), necklines, fabrics, and embellishments that catch your eye. Equally important? Note what you don’t like. This initial research gives you a helpful starting point and makes your boutique visits much more focused.
2. Book Those Bridal Appointments
Most bridal boutiques operate by appointment to ensure you get a dedicated consultant’s undivided attention. Research boutiques in the Austin area that carry designers or styles you’re drawn to and book ahead, especially for weekend slots which fill up fast!
3. Fuel Up Before You Go
Seriously, don’t go dress shopping on an empty stomach! Appointments can last a couple of hours, and trying on multiple (sometimes heavy!) gowns takes energy. Have a good meal beforehand so you can focus on the frocks, not a rumbling tummy.
4. Start with Your “Ideal” Style
You’ve done your homework and have a vision – definitely start by trying on dresses that fit that dream. This helps you either confirm your initial instincts or realize that perhaps your ideal looks different on you than in photos, which is totally okay!
5. Then, Be Open to the Unexpected!
This is a big one! Even if a dress doesn’t scream “me!” on the hanger, or if your consultant suggests something outside your initial vision, give it a whirl. So many brides end up falling in love with a style they never would have picked out themselves. Trust your consultant’s expertise – they see these gowns on bodies all day long at the best Austin bridal shops!
6. Choose What Makes YOU Feel Confident
Trends are fun and opinions are many, but at the end of the day, this is your dress. The most important question is: How does it make you feel? Can you move in it? Can you imagine dancing the night away? Do you feel beautiful, radiant, and authentically yourself? That’s the winner, every single time.
7. Take Photos (and Videos!)
It’s hard to remember every detail, and a dress can look different in a photo than in the mirror. Have a trusted member of your group snap pictures and even short videos from different angles. This helps you review your options later with a fresh perspective.
8. The Post-“Yes!” Photo Purge
Okay, this might sound a little dramatic, but trust us! Once you’ve officially said “yes” to your dress and placed that order, delete the photos of the other dresses. Why? To combat the dreaded “dress regret.” It’s so easy to second-guess when you see other options online. You made your choice because you loved it! Protect that joy by removing the temptation to compare later on.
Navigating Decision Fatigue & Comparison
Wedding planning involves a LOT of decisions, and it’s completely normal to feel a bit of fatigue. When it comes to your dress, remember to trust your gut. Focus on your style, your budget, and the joy your chosen dress brings you.
At Olive & Eden, our mission is to create a wedding experience that’s authentic to you and stress-free. Finding your dress is such a beautiful part of that journey, and we’re cheering you on every step of the way!
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start dress shopping?
We recommend starting your search 9-12 months before your wedding date. This allows plenty of time for ordering, production, shipping, and alterations without any last-minute stress.
Who should I bring with me to my appointment?
Bring a small, trusted crew! One to three people whose opinions you value and who will support you unconditionally is the sweet spot. Too many opinions can quickly become overwhelming.
How do I stick to my budget?
Be upfront with your bridal consultant about your budget before you start trying on gowns. A good consultant will respect your price point and pull dresses that make you feel like a million bucks without costing it. Remember to factor in the cost of alterations!
Ready to plan the rest of your day?
Finding the dress is just one piece of the puzzle. If you’re looking for a partner to help you navigate every step of your Austin wedding planning journey with a focus on timeless style and incredible value, we’d love to chat.
Request a Free Consultation with Olive & Eden Weddings
Happy shopping!
