Shopping for your wedding gown is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and it’s important to plan ahead to ensure your experience is seamless. Here is our timeline of wedding dress deadlines to add to your calendar!
10-12 Months Before
Decide On Your Bridal Style – Are you a rustic bride? Modern? Romantic? Do some research on what kind of dresses you like and how to match your dress to your wedding theme.
Set a Budget – Once you’ve decided on a budget for the wedding, take some time to think about how much of that you’d like to spend on a dress. Don’t forget to take into account alterations and accessories.
Start Shopping! – It’s never too early to start shopping! The earlier the better to ensure you can get your dream dress on time.
8-9 Months Before
Buy Your Dress – It’s safe to buy your dress at least eight months out from your wedding so you’ll have plenty of time to receive the dress and have it altered before the big day. Don’t forget to be prepared to put down a deposit on your dress when you purchase.
5-6 Months Before
Decide On Accessories – Are you wearing a veil or headpiece? Heels or flats? These pieces are essential in completing your bridal look.
Shop For Undergarments – Decide what undergarments and shapewear you’ll be wearing under your dress, and be sure to bring these to your first fitting.
6-8 Weeks Before
First Fitting – Make sure to schedule your first fitting within two months of your wedding so your dress will fit perfectly on your wedding day. This will be your first of two fittings. Remember to bring your wedding shoes and undergarments with you!
2-4 Weeks Before
Second Fitting – Your second fitting will include trying on your dress after alterations to see what revisions (if any) need to be made. You might want to bring someone with you to learn how to bustle your dress if needed before your wedding.
Find a Place to Store Your Gown – Your bridal salon or seamstress may store your gown until you need it, but if not, keep your dress somewhere safe and hidden from your fiancé. Make sure your gown and veil are in separate bags to avoid snagging your gown.
The Day Before
Gather Your Stuff – Pack everything—shoes, jewelry, undergarments, veil and dress—together so you won’t forget anything. Also, pack a handheld steamer and emergency kit complete with safety pins, dress tape and a bleach pen just in case.
The Day Of
Get Ready, Relax, Enjoy! It’s YOUR day! Make sure to give yourself enough time to get ready so you aren’t stressing or rushing. Allow yourself an extra 30 minutes to get dressed, and then soak in every moment of your special day.