Are you recently engaged and ready to start looking for your dream gown? Wedding dress shopping is one of the most anticipated and sometimes intimidating events. Brides want to avoid stress and costly mistakes while making sure everything goes smoothly. So, count on us to offer our advice on how to find your wedding dress at the best price while enjoying the five star experience you deserve.
Make an Appointment to Find your Wedding Dress!
Appointments are highly suggested to ensure a knowledgeable consultant, a fitting room, and adequate space is available to accommodate your group. It’s very common for bridal appointments to be made weeks or months in advance, especially for trunk shows and sales. Bridal boutiques usually staff in response to scheduled appointments. Although a shop may look empty at the moment you enter, there is usually an excited bride in the fitting room or on her way over for her appointment. We suggest that you begin shopping for your dress after you’ve secured the date, venue and your budget.
Begin Shopping for your Wedding Dress Early!
Plan ahead and buy early! We recommend that you make your purchase 8-12 months prior to your wedding date. By ordering your dress months ahead of time, you’ll avoid rush fees and potential price increases. If you have your mind set on a particular dress, we recommend searching for a local boutique that carries the brand and is having a Trunk Show or designer event. This is when you can take advantage of introductory pricing and special discounts on new releases.
Prepare for your Wedding Dress Appointment!
Research styles and fabrics in order to provide your consultant with a few images of dresses you like prior to the appointment. Do you prefer lace, sparkles, or a sleek look? There are endless styles to see and try on. By identifying what silhouettes and styles you are interested in, you’ll help the bridal stylist quickly find the perfect dress to fit your wants and needs!
Let Your Stylist Guide You to Say Yes!
Let your consultant make recommendations and offer ideas. The professional bridal staff truly know their inventory and can show you gowns that you may never have considered that fit your budget and figure. They can also direct you to upcoming sales and special events.
Inform Your Stylist of any Potential Weight Changes!
Your Stylist will need to know if you have weight loss/gain planned for the wedding. Even a few inches of change in the bust, waist or hips can potentially alter the look and style of a dress. This may likely result in the need for extra alterations.
Choose the Right Hype Group!
We absolutely love it when our brides come in with their family and friends to help them find the perfect wedding gown. But, keep in mind that too many people joining your visit can be a bit overwhelming. Ideally, only bring individuals you trust and can help you say YES to the dress you truly love.
Plan a Realistic Budget for your Wedding Dress!
According to The Knot 2025 Real Weddings Study, the average price of a wedding gown in 2024 was about $2,000. Of course it is always possible to find a beautiful wedding dress for less money, if you shop smart, attend boutique sales, and communicate your budget when making your appointment. Appointments and quantities are often limited, so be prepared to say YES if you fall in love with a dress.
Why you Should Find a Local Bridal Shop!
Most importantly, we highly encourage you to work with a locally owned bridal boutique with an outstanding reputation in the community. This type of establishment will prioritize your satisfaction and provide you with outstanding service. Local boutiques heavily rely on personal referrals from their happy brides. Ask your recently married friends for recommendations and then check out their online reviews before you book your appointment.
We’re so excited to meet you and have you be one of our happy brides!
Let’s find your dream dress ✨
3807 West Elm Street, McHenry, IL 60050
Text us at (815) 384-2505 to book
Call us at (815) 385.7330
Follow @kathrynsbridal
