What to Bring to Your Bridal Appointment: Plan Like a Bride
written by: Ally
What to Bring to Your Bridal Appointment: Plan Like a Bride
Preparing for your bridal appointment can be an exciting step in your wedding journey. This bridal appointment checklist will help you make the most of your time at our boutique. From what to bring wedding dress shopping to how to prepare for a bridal appointment, we’ve got you covered with essentials!
Inspiration
Inspiration photos are one of the most important things to bring to your bridal appointment. Photos help your bridal stylist understand what you are drawn to visually, even when your words might mean something different. Terms like mermaid, sparkle, or simple can mean different things to different people. Images remove confusion and give your stylist a clear starting point. Showing photos of wedding dresses you love or even dresses you dislike is incredibly helpful.
A Budget
Come prepared with a clear budget in mind. Knowing your price point allows your stylist to curate options that fit both your dreams and your finances. Be mindful that elements such as accessories and alterations are additional. You should be honest about what you’re comfortable spending to avoid falling in love with something out of reach.
Proper Undergarments
For your bridal appointment, the only required item is a pair of panties/underwear for hygiene and comfort. Nude undergarments are strongly recommended, as they remain invisible beneath white and ivory gowns. Shapewear is optional, feel free to bring it if it helps you feel more comfortable during fittings.
Most of our wedding gowns feature built-in cups and boning for structure and support, so our stylists generally suggest trying on dresses without a bra. However, if you prefer the added confidence of a strapless bra, adhesive cups, or another style, please bring it along. You’re welcome to add or remove items as needed throughout the appointment.
Hair Ties or Clips
Pack hair ties or clips to experiment with different hairstyles during your try on. Even if you envision wearing your hair down on the big day, pulling it up can reveal how a dress looks with various necklines. It also keeps you cool as you are changing in and out of gowns. Emulating the hairstyle you will likely wear on the big day is another beneficial way to create the entire vision. We kindly ask you to refrain from a fresh spray tan to ensure our sample gowns are clean for all of our brides.
Don’t Worry About Shoes
You don’t need to bring wedding shoes to your bridal appointment. Most brides try on gowns barefoot, which allows for comfort and stability when stepping in and out of unhemmed dresses. We recommend remaining barefoot for the majority of the appointment for quick and smooth transitions between gowns. Socks are encouraged to protect your feet, and pedestals are available in the showroom for added height and perspective. Or perhaps you’ve already found or borrowed a pair you love—you’re more than welcome to bring them along. Many brides find it helpful to slip into shoes at the very end once they’ve found their gown to visualize the complete look!
A Supportive Squad
We encourage you to carefully select the family or friends who will best uplift and celebrate you throughout your bridal appointment. Invite a supportive squad of 2-3 trusted friends or family members who know your style and offer positive feedback.
For brides who want to bring several friends or family members, we remind you that there are many unique ways to make those loved ones feel included. Split up these activities amongst your group to ensure you never feel overwhelmed by too many opinions at once.
It is not recommended to bring food or excess drinks into a bridal boutique. Spills or stains can permanently damage gowns. If you want to celebrate, plan for something after. Many brides enjoy heading to a nearby restaurant for a bite or a celebratory toast once the appointment is over.
An Open Mind
Last but not least, we encourage you to enter our boutique with a positive and open mindset. Keep in mind that many brides end up choosing a gown that catches them by surprise and you may find your dress sooner or later than you expect. That is ok!
Approach your appointment with curiosity and excitement as you explore different gowns, remembering that a little nervousness is completely normal. Your vision is our focus, and we are truly honored to help you discover your dream dress. If you happen to be feeling sick or emotionally off, it’s always okay to reschedule—bridal boutiques understand and want you to have the most positive and productive experience possible. Our team sincerely thanks you for allowing us to be a small part of such a meaningful moment!
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