Everything You Need to Know Before Saying Yes to the Dress
All pics by our very talented friends at Wilson & Lewis Photography
Let’s talk about one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning…
You guessed it - wedding dress shopping! Whether you’ve had a secret Pinterest board since high school or this is the first time you’ve even thought about trying on tulle, this part of the journey is full of emotion, laughter, and (sometimes) unexpected tears.
But while shopping for your wedding attire can be magical, it’s also one of those experiences that’s so much better with a little prep work. Trust us, showing up with a plan (and comfy undies) makes a world of difference.
So if you’re wondering when to start, what to bring, or whether you really need six people in the fitting room with you - we’ve got you covered.
Start Early — Like, Sooner Than You Think
In a perfect world, you’d begin wedding dress shopping about 9–12 months before your big day. Why? Because most bridal designers require 4–6 months for production, and you’ll also need to leave time for alterations. Yes, even if you’re buying off the rack, you’ll probably need a tweak or two.
If you’ve got a shorter timeline, don’t panic! Many boutiques offer rush options or beautiful ready-to-wear collections. Just let them know upfront so they can guide you accordingly.
Wear the Right Underthings (And Shoes!)
What you wear to your appointment can make a big difference. Opt for nude, seamless underwear and a strapless bra if you’re wearing one. If you’ve already chosen your wedding shoes, or know you want sky-high heels vs. comfy sneakers, bring those too.
Bonus tip: avoid heavy makeup or fake tan right before your appointment to keep the gowns pristine (and the stylists happy).
Keep an Open Mind
We love Pinterest as much as the next stylist (seriously, it’s wedding planner crack), but remember: the dress that looks perfect on a model might not be your perfect dress. And that’s okay.
Go in with some inspiration, but trust your stylist and be open to trying things outside your comfort zone. Some of the most stunning “WOW” moments happen in gowns our brides never expected to fall in love with.
Choose Your Hype Crew Wisely
Bringing your mum, your bestie, your sister, your aunt, your Pilates instructor, your dog’s psychic... might feel like a good idea in theory. But the more opinions in the room, the harder it is to hear your own.
Our advice? Choose 1–3 people who know you, love you, and can help you stay grounded in your vision. And if you’re torn between two dresses? Sleep on it. A little space brings a lot of clarity.
Support Size-Inclusive & Local Boutiques
Let’s be real - not all bridal shops are created equal. We highly recommend shopping at a boutique that:
Has a range of styles and price points
Offers inclusive sizing
Makes you feel seen, celebrated, and supported (not judged!)
We’re always happy to recommend some of our favourite Adelaide salons - just send me a DM and I’ll send you back the best in town :)
One Final Thought…
The best advice we can give? Wear what makes you feel like you. Whether that’s a structured crepe gown, a floaty boho number, or a jumpsuit with pockets (yes please!), there are no rules here. Wedding dress shopping is about finding something that lights you up, not pleasing everyone else.
We’ve had the honour of witnessing some unforgettable “first look” moments, and each one is beautiful because it’s uniquely you.
Need help pulling the rest of your wedding vision together? We’d love to be in your corner. Check out our services or get in touch to start planning.
