Dress Decisions?
So, you are engaged. You have set your date. booked your venues and your photographer. Now is the time to find that PERFECT dress!
Some ladies are lucky to have an eye for that type of thing. Some know exactly what they want since they have envisioned it since they were a little girl. However, some of us really had no idea what looked good on them, much less what they were interested in. I was definitely one of the latter.
After 150+ weddings, I have come to develop a few ideas, theories, and tips from the photographers point of view that might help you when finding your gown.
- Keep in mind the time of year and location that you are getting married- If you are getting married indoors and do not want any outdoor photos at all, then you really don't need to worry about much. However, most brides at least want some outdoor images if the weather is cooperating. If you are getting married in the summer, in an area that has HOT weather, you need to realize that many dresses are very heavy and thick. Not to mention they are usually tight and don't leave much room to "breathe" or "air out." I recommend not doing outdoor ceremonies in the dog days of summer (especially here in GA), however, if you are dead set on an outdoor event, try to get a dress that is light and airy. The more layers you have, the hotter and more miserable you may be. Also, help out your bridal party by picking out shorter cocktail length dresses for the ladies.
- Train or No Train- A long flowing train is beautiful. It flows behind you when you walk down the aisle leaving all your guests in awe. However, if you plan on large wedding parties, know that your train will not be showcased in all of your images. Of course, you will have the images of you alone and of your and your new husband with the train shown in all it's glory, but you will have to have it tucked behind you for large group shots in many cases so that everyone fits in. Also, a long train needs to be bustled before your reception. I have seen, on more than one occasion, the bustle break from he weight of a heavy train. The bride had to hold her dress with one hand all night! If you love that long train look, as I do, I recommend having your seamstress add a few extra hooks or buttons for the bustle just in case.
- Color Traditions- Now white, off white, cream, etc, are only some of the color choices you have available to you. I have seen so many beautiful gowns with accent belts, beads and trimming in every color under the rainbow. Obviously it works best when you coordinate with your flowers and bridal party dresses. You can be creative and really stand out just by adding a little color.
- Tight Budget- If you, like many brides, are on a budget, spend time looking around. Visit a couple of the larger Bridal chains but also visit some of the mom and pop shops. If you spend a little while looking, chances are you will find a great deal. If you have awhile before your wedding day, keep an eye out for sales. David's Bridal usually has a $99 sale once a year (near November). Also attend Filene's Basement "Running of the Brides" event (this year it was in March). It is alot of work but if you take a couple of your bridesmaids and have a solid plan, you will all have a blast and save a ton of cash! Who said it has to be expensive? If you love how you look in it, who cares?
- Who to bring- This seems like a no-brainer to some people. Bring someone whose opinion you really appreciate. Bring your mother, sister, aunt, best friend, anyone! However, make sure they will give you an HONEST opinion. On your wedding day, they are supposed to keep you calm and tell you how beautiful you look (which will be 100% true by the way!) but during dress shopping, they need to be ready to tell you if something just doesn't look right on you.
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