by Linda Leary

Created on: August 03, 2008

So you've named the day, the venue is booked and you are about to begin the most exciting shopping trip of your life. You are searching for the perfect wedding dress, the one that has the "Wow" factor and will bring a tear to your
mother's eye. Buying this dress will be as exhilarating and important to you as the wedding day itself and whichever gown you decide on, it must make you feel wonderful for your dream day.

Some brides-to-be can feel intimidated by the shop they visit and have no idea what to expect. Firstly, you must remember that shopping for bridal wear is
Different. In most cases, you are not buying off the rail. The dresses you try one are samples ad your dress will have to be ordered which takes 12-16 weeks. Normally, when you have chosen your dress you will be asked for a deposit. This could be a quarter or half of the price of the dress, depending on the shop you are buying it from. Once the dress has arrived you will need to return for the first fitting as nearly all wedding dresses need to be shortened, and just to make sure that the fit is perfect so that any minor alterations can be arranged. You will be expected to pay the balance before alterations are carried out.

Remember to enquire whether the alterations are included in the price or if you will have to pay for them yourself. You will then have a second fitting to ensure that everything is to your satisfaction.
Some bridal shop assistants, trying to secure a big sale, can be very pushy. I have spoken to some brides who felt bullied into trying gowns that were not in their preferred style or price range. Remind yourself that this is YOUR day - YOU must be the controlling influence. Don't let your bridesmaids dictate to you on colours or styles but be thoughtful to choose something that will compliment most shapes and sizes. To make your day a truly splendid occasion you will want all your retinue to feel good. Having said that, you are the star of the show and not to be outshone by anyone else.

Bridesmaids' and flower girls dresses are also usually ordered so be sure to start your shopping early enough. Eight months to a year in advance may seem way too soon but that is just about the right time to begin in order to cover buying the dresses and accessories. Allow time for shoes to be dyed, jewellery, veil and tiara to be ordered as well as the all important bridal underwear. Don't forget the Mother of the Bride and the Groom and mens wear either. Whether you are buying or hiring the mens' clothing you will need to order in plenty of time usually three to six months beforehand.

It can be an exhausting, puzzling and frustrating business, getting ready for the big day but arrange your shopping days and check if you need to book appointments at the shops you are targeting, Many of the larger wedding shops will not let you set foot over the door without an appointment but others are happy for you to simply arrive and browse and try on. Don't let yourself be rushed into buying - a process of elimination is always best. Try on a lot of different styles to find out what doesn't suit you, then you can concentrate on what does. For the friendliest bridal wear shopping experience in the Lancashire area check out www.the-bridal-path.com
No appointment is necessary and the shop has a very varied price range to suit all pockets. They sell everything you will need for your big day and will give you a warm welcome in pleasant surroundings.

Your wedding dress is probably going to be the costliest item of clothing you will ever buy so above all - enjoy it!

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