Shopping for your wedding dress should be a fun, joyful experience. It’s all about spending time with your bridesmaids, maybe the odd glass of bubbly, and a few happy tears when you find ‘the one’. What’s not to love?!
Shopping for your wedding dress should be a fun, joyful experience. It’s all about spending time with your bridesmaids, maybe the odd glass of bubbly, and a few happy tears when you find ‘the one’. What’s not to love?!
However, if you’ve never set foot inside a bridal boutique and have no idea what to expect, the whole process can feel a little intimidating. After all, it’s nothing like browsing ASOS online or racing round Zara during your lunch break. It’s a brand-new shopping experience.
There’s really no need to worry. A good bridal boutique will ensure you’re well looked after, given the very best customer service, and offered plenty of expert advice.
I asked Julia at Frances Day Bridal, an exquisite boutique in the beautiful market town of Southwell in Nottinghamshire, to share her top tips and tell you how to get the most from your bridal boutique appointment. Over to Julia…
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I’m still surprised by the number of brides who fall in love with a gown that’s everything they said they didn’t want when entering the boutique! Your bridal stylist will be able to advise you about which gowns may be worth trying on. Everything always looks so different when it’s on a body, so trust their eye and experiment.
It may seem obvious, but wear minimal makeup for your appointment, especially if your actual dress has arrived. The last thing you or your boutique wants is to get makeup on your gown.
There is no such thing as a silly question. If you’re uncertain about anything, just ask.
Shopping for your wedding dress should be the best shopping trip of your life. Try to relax, enjoy the process, and put your trust in those helping you. They want you to find the perfect dress too!
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Just in case you’re still feeling anxious, I’ve compiled some further reading for you:
How to Go Wedding Dress Shopping – An Expert’s Guide to Bridal Boutiques
More Than a Handful – Wedding Dress Shopping for Big Boobs
The Curvaceous Bride’s Guide to Finding the Perfect Dress
10 Top Tips for Wedding Dress Shopping
Until next time,
Happy planning!
Val x
Photo credit: Daniel Hughes Photography
Val Mattinson is the founder and Head Planner at Benessamy, specialising in luxury weddings and beautifully curated celebrations across the UK and the Caribbean. With over 15 years of experience, Val is known for her calm, reassuring approach and meticulous attention to detail — supporting couples and hosts who want an unforgettable experience without the overwhelm.
If you’re beginning your planning journey and would like expert guidance, get in touch to arrange an introductory call. Val would love to help you create a celebration that feels thoughtful, joyful and effortlessly seamless.
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